I have a 2016 F150 that had everything I wanted but the integrated tailgate step, I was told at the time I could just add it later. Fast forward a year and I decided that I really want to add it so in doing research I have seen posts that claim it is actually a different tailgate so I emailed two Ford OEM dealers that are selling them, one told me I needed the following parts and it would bolt right on:

2015-2016 Ford F-150 FLEX STEP TAILGATE REAR FLEXIBLE STEP OEM FL3Z99402A48AA

2015-2016 FORD F-150 TOP CENTER FLEX STEP TAILGATE MOLDING COVER CAP OEM
FL3Z9941018AB

The other told me he thinks it will work but has not actually seen anyone do it, and isn't certain it is compatible. I asked the first dealer if he would pay return shipping and take items back without a restocking fee but have not heard back (although it is after hours so hopefully I will hear tomorrow).

So any ideas on if this can be done with OEM parts? I know there are a ton of after market options but I really would like to go with the integrated OEM option without the pain and expense of replacing the tailgate.

Thanks!

 

I just bought a used 2015 with no step and add one as well. Thread subscribed!

 

I would check with Tasca one of the vendor/supporters here, they can probably steer you in the right direction.

 

So I took the tailgate apart, there is a place that seems to be the size of the step, but it appears to have aluminum filled into the blank space where the step would be, to me it looks like it would be easy to remove (cut) the aluminum and insert the step. I am not certain if the correct tailgate has reinforcements or some other structural elements that would make this a bad idea (such as mounting areas to hold the step). I have tried to google images but cannot find anything that shows the inside of the step tailgate vs the non-step version.

Anyone have any ideas?

 

I wanted one on my truck but ended up without one. After hauling one load of gravel I'm glad I didn't get it. Going with a bed step instead.

 

subbed... would love to add this to mine. there are past threads that said can't be done but hopefully they were wrong!

 

Well boys I looked @ 1 on the lot that didn't have the step...
Got the old you can add it later from the Uneducated salesperson !
So I took her back to the service dept. and checked how much $$ to do it after the fact.
I was told its a different tailgate shell, and it has reinforcements welded in before its painted.
If you buy all the parts, pay to have it welded in and assembled, and then repainted it was around $1600.00


Check out Hollander parts .com
You might find a used one in your color

 

Been discussed for years. Find a tailgate with them and swap them.

 

Cheaper to just get a kick out step under corner of rear bumper

 

Yes, but not near as nice. The built-in step, with the pole, is very useful to climb into the open tailgate, even with a load in your arms.