How to Replace the Lock on the Tailgate of an Isuzu Rodeo

by Jeffrey Caldwell

The lock cylinder on an Isuzu Rodeo is a small metal cylinder in which you insert your key to unlock the tailgate. Over time, the small metal tumblers inside the cylinder can rust or wear out so that the key will no longer operate the lock. In cases where someone has broken into a vehicle, the lock cylinder has often been punched out with a screwdriver and must be replaced. You can replace the lock cylinder on the tailgate of your Isuzu Rodeo with only a few simple tools.

Removing the Lock Cylinder

Step 1

Park your Isuzu Rodeo on a level surface, and set the parking brake.

Step 2

Open the rear hatch and tailgate.

Step 3

Insert a flat-head screwdriver between the steel tailgate frame and the trim panel. The trim panel is retained by hidden plastic clips; slide the screwdriver around the trim panel until you hit one of the clips. Pull straight upward to disengage the clip from the frame. Continue around the trim panel until all the plastic clips are disengaged.

Step 4

Locate the lock assembly. Stand directly behind the open tailgate and look to the right. You will see a metal plate that is narrower on the side pointing toward the front of the vehicle.

Step 5

Using an appropriate-sized socket, remove the two screws that secure the lock assembly to the tailgate frame, and slide the lock assembly downward. Do not disconnect the actuating rods from the lock assembly.

Step 6

Locate the lock cylinder. It is behind where the lock assembly was.

Step 7

Disconnect the actuating rod from the lock cylinder. Remove the retaining pin with a pair of needle-nosed pliers, and pull the actuating rod from the lock cylinder.

Step 8

Remove the retaining clip inside the tailgate that secures the lock cylinder to the tailgate.

Step 9

Pull the lock cylinder from the outside of the tailgate.

Installing the New Lock Cylinder

Step 1

Slide the new lock cylinder into the hole from the outside of the tailgate.

Step 2

Reinstall the steel clip that secures the lock cylinder to the tailgate.

Step 3

Slide the actuating rod into the hole on the lock cylinder, and reinstall the retaining pin.

Step 4

Slide the lock assembly into position, and reinstall the two screws that retain it.

Step 5

Reinstall the trim panel onto the tailgate by lining up the plastic clips with the holes in the tailgate frame and pressing the trim panel onto the frame.

References

Tips

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