This procedure replaces the power liftgate actuator on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150, restoring automatic tailgate operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tailgate liftgate actuator assembly × 1 — FL3Z-9943150-A or equivalent OEM
• Electrical connector sealing caps (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure tailgate is fully closed and locked
3. Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal. Wait 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
4. Mark or photograph actuator mounting position and cable routing for proper reinstallation
5. Have an assistant available to support tailgate during actuator disconnection if needed

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Loosen and remove the negative battery terminal using 10mm socket. Move cable away from battery post and secure so it cannot make contact. Torque to specification during reassembly.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove tailgate inner trim panel
   Open the tailgate. Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry out the plastic trim clips around the perimeter of the inner tailgate panel. Start at the bottom corners and work upward. Remove the trim panel screws if present (typically located near the latch area). Lift the trim panel up and away to disengage the upper retaining clips. Set panel aside in a safe location to avoid damage.
3. 3

   Access actuator mounting area
   With the inner trim panel removed, locate the liftgate actuator assembly mounted on the driver's side interior tailgate frame. The actuator is a cylindrical unit approximately 8-10 inches long with electrical connectors and mechanical linkage attachment. Remove the plastic moisture barrier if it obstructs access, taking care not to tear it. Use masking tape to secure it out of the way if reusing.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Locate the main electrical connector on the actuator body. Press the release tab and carefully pull the connector straight out. For secondary connectors if equipped, repeat the process. Inspect connectors for corrosion or damage. Clean with electrical contact cleaner if necessary. Do not pull on wires; only grasp the connector body.
   ⚠Verify battery is disconnected before handling electrical connectors to prevent accidental system activation.
5. 5

   Disconnect actuator linkage
   Locate the mechanical linkage connection point where the actuator rod connects to the tailgate latch mechanism. This is typically a ball-socket or clip-style connection. Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to release the retaining clip. Carefully disconnect the linkage rod from the latch mechanism. Support the actuator to prevent it from falling when disconnected.
6. 6

   Remove actuator mounting bolts
   Using 10mm or 13mm socket (verify size before applying force), remove the mounting bolts securing the actuator to the tailgate frame. There are typically 2-3 bolts. Support the actuator with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Note the orientation and position of any spacers or washers.
   ⚠The actuator weighs approximately 3-5 lbs and may shift when final bolt is removed. Maintain secure grip throughout removal.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove actuator assembly
   Carefully maneuver the actuator out of the mounting location, threading any attached wiring harness through the frame openings. Avoid snagging wires on sharp metal edges. Completely remove the actuator from the tailgate. Inspect the mounting area for debris, corrosion, or damage and clean if necessary.
8. 8

   Install new actuator assembly
   Position the new actuator in the mounting location, ensuring proper orientation matches the original installation (refer to photographs taken during preparation). Thread wiring harness through frame openings carefully. Align mounting holes with frame mounting points. Install mounting bolts hand-tight initially to allow for adjustment.
9. 9

   Torque actuator mounting bolts
   Using torque wrench, tighten actuator mounting bolts to specification in a cross-pattern if multiple bolts are present. Ensure actuator is seated flush against mounting surface and properly aligned before final torquing. Verify actuator does not shift after torquing.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Connect actuator linkage
    Attach the actuator linkage rod to the tailgate latch mechanism. Push the ball joint or clip connection firmly until it clicks into place. Verify connection is secure by gently tugging on the linkage. The connection should not separate with moderate force. Ensure linkage moves freely without binding.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Connect the main electrical connector to the actuator, pressing firmly until you hear or feel a positive click. Verify the connector is fully seated and the locking tab is engaged. Connect any secondary connectors if equipped. Ensure no wires are pinched or under tension.
12. 12

    Reinstall moisture barrier and trim panel
    If moisture barrier was removed, reposition it and secure with original adhesive or new butyl tape if necessary. Align the inner trim panel with the tailgate frame. Engage upper retaining clips first by positioning panel and pressing firmly. Install any trim panel screws and torque appropriately. Press firmly around perimeter to seat all plastic retaining clips.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Do not overtighten. After connection, turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. The liftgate control module will perform self-diagnostics. This may take 30-60 seconds. Check for warning lights on instrument cluster related to liftgate system.
    ⚠Battery terminal over-torquing can damage terminal post. Use torque wrench and follow specification exactly.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
2. Ensure no tools or parts are left inside the tailgate cavity before closing trim panel
3. Test manual tailgate operation before testing powered function
4. All trim clips should be fully seated with no gaps between panel and tailgate frame

Verification

• With vehicle in PARK and engine running, use the key fob or interior button to activate power liftgate opening cycle. Tailgate should open smoothly without hesitation or unusual noise
• Test power close function. Tailgate should close completely and latch securely
• Test obstacle detection by placing soft object (like a rolled towel) in path during closing. System should stop and reverse
• Verify adjustable height settings still function if vehicle is equipped with this feature
• Check for proper operation of tailgate release button and backup camera function
• Perform 3-5 complete open/close cycles to ensure consistent operation and proper system calibration
• Listen for any grinding, clicking, or abnormal sounds during operation that could indicate improper installation
• Verify all warning lights related to liftgate system are extinguished on instrument cluster

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