Tailgate Hinge problems of the 2002 GMC Sierra

Seven problems related to tailgate hinge have been reported for the 2002 GMC Sierra. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Tailgate Hinge problem

Failure Date: 10/21/2004

(1) defective catch on tailgate would not always keep gate closed (2) gate unexpectedly opened traveling 35mph, loosing several pieces of furniture. Also, tailgate dropped onto highway damaging it badly. Discovered both cables rusted thru also. Could have caused accident or worse. (3) will bring into GMC dlr on first chance, 10/25/04.

2 Tailgate Hinge problem

Failure Date: 09/14/2004

The tailgate straps on my 2002 GMC seirra both broke at the same time and the tailgate fell down to the bumper. My local gm dealer knew of a problem but stated that no new item had been made to correct the strap problem, so they just put new straps back on my truck, just like the ones that broke.

3 Tailgate Hinge problem

Failure Date: 08/31/2004

While loading the vehicle, the tailgate support cables broke without warning. As a result the owner was thrown to the ground. The owner sustained hand injuries. Please provide additional information.

4 Tailgate Hinge problem

Failure Date: 03/07/2004

My 2002 GMC 2500hd truck this past weekend had a failure in the tailgate cable system. I was driving my atv into the bed when the left cable broke and the tailgate suddenly lowered a few inches. Fortunately, the right cable didn't break or serious injury would have occurred. After looking at the broken cable, there was evidence of rust inside the plastic covering on the wire strands that make up the cable. There is no way to inspect the cables for a potential hazard prior to a catastrophic occurrence. I will be replacing mine with a stainless strap system so this dangerous defect won't happen again.

5 Tailgate Hinge problem

Failure Date: 02/22/2004

Consumer stated while vehicle standing at a stop tailgate steel straps broke, causing tailgate to drop.

6 Tailgate Hinge problem

Failure Date: 01/29/2004

When opening the tailgate two support brackets broke. As a result, the tailgate fell to the ground. Both supports were replaced. There were broken cables.

7 Tailgate Hinge problem

Failure Date: 10/23/2003

The tail gate cable snapped in half when the passenger was exiting the back of the pick up. The passenger hit his/her head on the driveway. The cause of the cable failure was undetermined. Consumer noted both cables snapped sending his assistant face first to the ground. His knees were first to make contact with the concrete and he laid there several minutes before trying to move.

Tailgate Hinge problems	7
Structure problems	4
Body problems	3
Tailgate problems	1
Door Hinge problems	1
Door problems	1