Thread: Tailgate release switch failure, replacement options?

Originally Posted by wiggy781

While down on the beach at Yeagarup the tailgate release switch failed (between the number plate light) - my heart sank initially as I thought it was the dreaded actuator failure, I have had the spare actuator and mechanical cable release parts on the workbench for at least six months!! Anyhow was able to open the tailgate remotely using the key fob.

Just called the local stealer, LR do not sell the switch and wiring - I would need to purchase the complete assembly including lamps, $400 +

I have seen aftermarket switches complete with wiring on evilbay for $30 out of China. Anyone any experience with this or can suggest any other options / suppliers?

Cheers,

I have tried two approaches.

1) Directly replacing the microswitch in the unit with one I bought from Jaycar. Cost 99c (I think). Need to drill a hole next to the failed microswitch to glue a new one in then cut the wires off the failed switch and wire up the new switch.

2) Using a eBay el cheapo which supposedly fit a Freelander. cost ~$25 (I think). The wiring harness itself is incompatible with the D4 but the switch mechanism is identical to that of the D4 so just cut it from the harness and wired it in.

Both work fine if your OK with cutting wire and soldering.

Edit: just looked at your photo. You have broken the tabs that hold the switch mechanism in so you will need to replace the mechanism unit rather than just replace the microswitch.

Rear Tailgate Door Release Handle Switch Fit for Land Rover Discovery 3 & 4 SL | eBay

Originally Posted by wiggy781

I have seen aftermarket switches complete with wiring on evilbay for $30 out of China.

I did one of these on the D3 back in 2019. Just checked the receipt and it was $39.99AUD all-in. Mine just came with tails, so I clipped the old wiring, then solder and glue-lined heatshrink.

I destroyed the original getting it out. I couldn't get the handle off, so there was a bit of keyhole surgery required in the joining, but the new one just "snapped" in and it has been great since.

Found it : Land Rover Discovery 3/4, LR3/LR4 - tailgate boot trunk handle switch repair kit | eBay

I'm sure they're all much of a muchness.

Thanks guys for the guidance, I have purchased off evilBay for $27 delivered...now need to practise my soldering skills. Cheers all.

I bought the Ford Focus part that’s the same (except for the wiring harness) for $18.

Car Boot Tailgate Opener Release Control Fit Ford Focus MK2 04-08 3M51-19B514-AC

Cheers,
Scott

Originally Posted by LRD414

I bought the Ford Focus part that’s the same (except for the wiring harness) for $18.

Nice. It's $20.99 now. I just noticed the rubber is starting to perish in the corners from my E-bay special, so I'll order one of those and put it in the parts box.

Originally Posted by LRD414

Car Boot Tailgate Opener Release Control Fit Ford Focus MK2 04-08 3M51-19B514-AC

Thanks Scott, ordered from EvilBay $19 delivered. Now have two on order ..one to fit, one spare.

Originally Posted by BradC

..... order one of those and put it in the parts box.

Exactly what I did. My original is still fine but do t want to be caught short unable to get in tailgate. So I have one of these switches now and a manual release cable attached to the lock so as to cover the two known or common failure points.

Cheers,
Scott