Tailgate Theft

Pick-up Owners. Tailgate theft still an issue. The new models have added accessories that make tailgates go for a high value on the black market. There are several deterrent options. If possible always lock your tailgate. Tailgate locks that enclose the removal spacing on the left side at base (normally) are very reasonable and easy to use. Lastly as a quick and cheap way to deter. Put a hose clamp around that same spacing area to make it more difficult to remove the tailgate. Thieves hate to spend time. A tailgate on a newer truck can run $1500 plus and are removeable in minutes.

Probably a McGard, I use a Master Lock that has key. My son just lost a 2013 Ford Platinum tailgate that was big bucks.

That's cool, industry got smart:)

The tonneau cover on our Frontier overlaps the top of the tailgate. When the tailgate is shut and the tonneau cover is locked, the tailgate can't be opened even if it is not locked. I looked at the hinge locks, not just the one mentioned above, but a couple of other brands. For someone without a cover, it looks like it would be something needed. I had not heard of people stealing tailgates around here. Either it isn't happening, or it isn't publicized. Pickups are much more common out west though so I can understand it being a higher risk in Arizona.

We have a locking tonneau on our box and the tailgate locks with the doors. So when things are locked up, it's about as safe as it can be. It's when the tailgate is not locked when it's vulnerable. Ours is a McGard. Not expensive. Works.