If you've spent any time hauling gear in a Super Duty, you know the 2019 f250 tailgate is basically the command center of the truck bed. It's not just a slab of metal that keeps your tools from sliding out onto the highway; for most of us, it's a workbench, a step-stool, and sometimes even a seat at the end of a long day. Since Ford moved to the aluminum body style back in 2017, the tailgate on the 2019 model became significantly lighter and more advanced than the old steel versions, but that doesn't mean it's indestructible or perfect for everyone's needs.
Whether you're looking to replace a damaged gate after a trailer mishap or you're thinking about upgrading to one with the integrated step, there is actually a lot to consider. These tailgates are surprisingly high-tech, especially when you start looking at the camera systems and remote release features. Let's dive into what makes these things tick and what you should look for if you're in the market for a new one.
The Shift to Aluminum
The biggest thing to remember about the 2019 f250 tailgate is that it's made of high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy. When Ford first made this switch, a lot of old-school truck guys were worried about durability. However, the reality is that it's held up pretty well. The main benefit is the weight. You can flick this tailgate shut with a couple of fingers, which is a massive change from the heavy steel gates of the early 2000s.
Because it's lighter, the internal torsion bar doesn't have to work nearly as hard to assist with the opening and closing. This makes the "tailgate drop" much smoother. If you've ever felt a tailgate slam down and rattle the whole truck, you know why this matters. But there is a downside: aluminum can be trickier to repair if it gets a deep crease or a heavy dent. Most body shops can handle it these days, but it's often more cost-effective to just replace the whole shell if the damage is significant.
The "Man Step" – Love it or Hate it?
One of the most popular features on the 2019 f250 tailgate is the integrated tailgate step. Ford was really the first to nail this design. It tucks away completely inside the tailgate so you don't even know it's there until you pull it out. If you're lifting heavy items into the bed or if your truck has a lift kit, that step is a literal lifesaver for your knees.
However, the step adds a bit of complexity. Over time, dirt, salt, and road grime can get inside the mechanism. If you find that your step is sticking or won't click back into place, it usually just needs a good cleaning and some dry lubricant. Avoid using heavy grease because that actually attracts more dirt and makes the problem worse. If you have the base model tailgate without the step, it is possible to swap it out for a step version, but keep in mind that the internal structure is different—you can't just "add" the step to a standard gate; you have to replace the entire tailgate assembly.
Technology and Wiring
Another thing that surprises people is how much wiring is stuffed inside a 2019 f250 tailgate. Even the mid-range trims usually come with a backup camera and an LED light to help you hitch up a trailer in the dark. If you have a Lariat, King Ranch, or Platinum, you've also got the remote release solenoid. This lets you drop the tailgate using your key fob, which is great when your hands are full.
If you are replacing your tailgate, you have to be really careful with the wiring harness. There's a specific plug located underneath the rear of the truck near the spare tire. Before you lift the gate off the hinges, you have to disconnect this harness. If you forget, you'll rip the wires right out of the camera, and those replacement harnesses aren't exactly cheap. Also, if you're buying a used tailgate from a junkyard, make sure the camera matches your truck's tech package. A 360-degree camera system uses a different sensor than the standard backup-only version.
Common Problems and Quick Fixes
No truck is perfect, and the 2019 f250 tailgate has a few quirks. One common complaint is the latches getting "mushy." This usually happens when the cables inside the gate stretch or the handle mechanism gets dry. A quick spray of white lithium grease on the side latches usually fixes it.
Another thing to watch out for is the electronic release button. On some trucks, moisture can get into the button on the handle, causing it to fail or, even weirder, causing the tailgate to pop open on its own while you're driving. If your tailgate starts acting possessed, it's likely a short in that handle switch. It's a fairly easy part to swap out, but it can be annoying if you don't catch it early.
Protecting Your Investment from Theft
It sounds crazy if you haven't experienced it, but tailgate theft is a huge problem. A complete 2019 f250 tailgate with a camera and a step can cost upwards of $2,000 to $3,000 to replace at a dealership. Because they are designed to be easily removed (for when you need to use a slide-in camper), a thief can walk off with your tailgate in about 30 seconds if it's unlocked.
The easiest way to prevent this is to just keep your truck locked, as the power locks usually integrate with the tailgate. But for extra peace of mind, a lot of guys use a simple hose clamp around the right-side hinge. It doesn't make it impossible to steal, but it makes it take way longer, and most thieves will just move on to an easier target. There are also specialized locks you can buy that replaces the hinge cup for a more professional-looking solution.
Aftermarket vs. OEM
If you've backed into a pole or a trailer tongue and your gate is toast, you're faced with the big question: Do you go with a genuine Ford part or an aftermarket version?
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): This is the way to go if you want a perfect fit and finish. The paint will match better, and the internal components like the torsion bar will be high quality. However, the price is steep.
- Aftermarket: These are much cheaper, but they are often made of steel instead of aluminum to save on manufacturing costs. This means they are heavier and won't have the same "light touch" as the original. They also might not have the same rust resistance as the aluminum ones.
If you use your truck for work and it's going to get beat up anyway, an aftermarket gate is fine. But if you're driving a nice daily driver or a high-trim truck, it's usually worth the extra cash to find an OEM 2019 f250 tailgate, even if it's a used one from a local wrecking yard that you have to repaint.
Final Thoughts on Maintenance
To keep your 2019 f250 tailgate working like new, just give it a little bit of love once or twice a year. Open it up, spray out the hinges with a hose to get the grit out, and check the drains at the bottom. If those drain holes get plugged with mulch or dirt, water can sit inside the gate. While aluminum doesn't rust like steel, it can still oxidize, and you definitely don't want water sitting on your camera wiring.
At the end of the day, the tailgate is one of the most used parts of any F250. Whether you're using the step to get in and out or just relying on the backup camera to line up your gooseneck, it's a piece of equipment that makes the truck what it is. Treat it right, keep it locked, and it'll probably outlast the rest of the truck.