Tailgate on 2004 Silverado not latching very well

[Hookmaster]

It started early spring of this year and I have to close it 3-4 times to latch it. I have sprayed the two springs on each end several times with deep creep and lock lubricant but it has not improved very much. Am I looking in the right place or is there something aroung the latch I need to look at.

[Jeremy airjer W]

If you look up into the latch you will see where the rods are attatched and where they pivot. The spot where they pivot are probably corroded and causing the issue. Istead of returning freely to the closed position they are sticking in the open position.

[MNice]

Spray the rods & linkage under the handle, that should cure your problem.

[CrowRiverRat83]

EVERY single Chevy PU I have owned has developed this problem over time. On the older trucks I just installed a throw lock on the tailgate and drilled a hole in the bed side for it to slide into. Not the prettiest but it gives you piece of mind your tailgates not going to flop down.