Toyota Sequoia Tailgate Latch DIY Easy Fix Hack

My vehicle is a 2002 Toyota Sequoia (2001-2007 model years are identical). I've replaced the rear hatch handle and latch mechanism both multiple times. So happy to find this hack. Thanks to Aireddown Adventures for the idea.

[@MarshallBLewis]

Update: March 7, 2024: still working well with zero problems

[@robbflynn4325]

I gave up with this. Bought the OEM cable and latch. Fed end of cable through hole just under bottom part of rear licence plate. Just pull on end of cable to open. Two years later still working.

[@MarshallBLewis]

I'm glad that is working for ya. If it ever fails this video will show you how to jimmy rig it with no cable

[@Grab123on]

How did you open it? Mine is so stuck pulling the cable from the inside does nothing

[@MarshallBLewis]

I haven't had that problem. If I was in your boat I would see if I could spray some lubricant up in there with the door still shut. If that didn't work I would have to take the door apart from the inside and worse case scenario you might have to cut stuff if you can't unbolt it

[@garciasschevy]

Will that work even if the handle is broken ?

[@MarshallBLewis]

@@garciasschevy yes the whole point of it is to bypass the handle because the handles are known for breaking on first gen Sequoias

[@garciasschevy]

@@MarshallBLewis okay where can I find one like the tool you had or something that will work? Help me as much as you can please

[@MarshallBLewis]

@@garciasschevy the piece of metal I used was something you should be able to get at any hardware store. You'll need a way to bend it, I just used lineman's pliers

[@garciasschevy]

@MarshallBLewis how long is the part you bend? Also could I send you pictures of staff I have that could possibly work?

[@mardinoetling7871]

My problem turned out to be a very dirty sticky latch. I sprayed some penetrating fluid up under and, voila, it opened no problem...

[@MarshallBLewis]

I found the Sequoia latch to be a reoccurring problem but the fix I do in this video has worked for months no problems

[@leahjenkins6948]

It will not open with cable or pushing it manually what can I do??

[@MarshallBLewis]

Take apart the door from the inside and figure out why the cable isn't releasing the latch

[@garciasschevy]

​@MarshallBLewis what size is the drill hole on the piece of metal you use?

[@edgal6680]

how many inches is it?

[@MarshallBLewis]

The piece of metal I used was 5 inch long by 1/2 inch wide

[@antrinh5525]

jup, aint gonna pay 35 for that piece when u can get it for 4.