Tailgate Retaining Strap Over Extends And Breaks

Buffer Copy Email Facebook Flipboard Hacker News LinkedIn Messenger Mix Pinterest Print Reddit SMS Telegram Tumblr X VK WhatsApp Line Xing

NUMBER: 23-011-15
GROUP: Body
DATE: March 21, 2015

THIS BULLETIN SUPERSEDES SERVICE BULLETIN 23-022-14 REV. A, DATED OCTOBER 23, 2014, WHICH SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM YOUR FILES. ALL REVISIONS ARE HIGHLIGHTED WITH **ASTERISKS** AND INCLUDE ADDITION OF TAIL LAMP FOR EXPORT MARKET.

SUBJECT:

Tailgate Retaining Strap Over Extends And Breaks

OVERVIEW:

This bulletin involves painting and replacing both tailgate hinges and replacing the tailgate retaining strap. If damaged, it may also be necessary to replace the tailgate hinge covers and/or right side tail lamp as required.

MODELS:

2012 – 2014

(JK)

Wrangler

NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles built on or after July 12, 2011 (MDH 0712XX) and on or before July 30, 2013 (MDH 0730XX).

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:

The tailgate retaining strap is damaged due to the tailgate hinge over extending. The retaining strap typically breaks at the body side of the retaining strap attachment. Tailgate hinge covers and/or tail lamp may also be damaged as a result of over extension.

DIAGNOSIS:

If the customer describes the symptom, perform the Repair Procedure.

PARTS REQUIRED:

Omix | 11218.08 | Upper Body Tailgate Hinge Cover | OE Reference: 55397090AB | Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK & JKU

Qty.	Description	Part No.
2	HINGE, Tailgate	55395401AG Mopar 55395401AG HINGE TAILGATE Mopar OEM part that fits your specific vehicle HINGE TAILGATE Part Number: 55395401AG Manufactured to meet specifications for fit, form, and function $99.80 Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1	STRAP, retaining	04589890AC
1 (AR)	COVER, Tailgate Body Half, Upper Hinge	55397090AB Omix \| 11218.08 \| Upper Body Tailgate Hinge Cover \| OE Reference: 55397090AB \| Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK & JKU FITMENT \| For 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK & JKU OE REFERENCE \| 55397090AB OMIX 11218.08 \| Upper Body Tailgate Hinge Cover WARRANTY \| Limited 5-Year Warranty OMIX \| Proudly offering all the parts you need to keep your Jeep running like new with quality standards that always meet or exceed those of the factory part. $17.30 Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1 (AR)	COVER, Tailgate Body Half, Lower Hinge	55397089AB 1,999 Reviews Omix \| 11218.09 \| Lower Body Tailgate Hinge Cover \| OE Reference: 55397089AB \| Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK & JKU FITMENT \| For 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK & JKU OE REFERENCE \| 55397089AB OMIX 11218.09 \| Lower Body Tailgate Hinge Cover WARRANTY \| Limited 5-Year Warranty OMIX \| Proudly offering all the parts you need to keep your Jeep running like new with quality standards that always meet or exceed those of the factory part. $16.45 Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1 (AR)	COVER, Tailgate Hinge, Upper Hinge	55397092AC Genuine Chrysler 55397092AC Tailgate Hinge Cover Vehicle Specific Manufacturer Warranty Chrysler Quality Assured OEM, Not After Market Vehicle Specific $41.82 Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1 (AR)	COVER, Tailgate Hinge, Lower Hinge	55397091AC Omix \| 11218.07 \| Lower Tailgate Hinge Cover \| OE Reference: 55397091AC \| Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK & JKU FITMENT \| For 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK & JKU OE REFERENCE \| 55397091AC OMIX 11218.07 \| Lower Tailgate Hinge Cover WARRANTY \| Limited 5-Year Warranty OMIX \| Proudly offering all the parts you need to keep your Jeep running like new with quality standards that always meet or exceed those of the factory part. $23.51 Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1 (AR)	LAMP, Tail Stop Turn, Right	55077890AD ACK For Jeep Wrangler 07-18 Tail Light Passenger Side \| DOT Certified 55077890AH \| CH2801177 ACK 5 Year Best in the Class Warranty Passengers Side \| This unit includes bulbs & sockets Fits OEM Part Number: 55077890AH, 55077890AH, 55077890AH; Fits Partslink Number: CH2801177 DOT (Department of Transporation) Certified Factory Sealed Brand New in the Box $61.16 Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
**1 (AR)	LAMP, Tail Stop Turn, Right (EXPORT)**	55078146AC Crown Automotive 55078146AC Tail Light Tail Lamp (Right) Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1 (AR)	Crest East Coast Clear Seal 5 min. 1.7 oz. Cartridge #ZCEC or Equivalent	NPN

NOTE: Each Crest East Coast clear seal 1.7 oz. cartridge will service approximately 2 vehicles.

SPECIAL TOOLS/EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:

NPN	Crest East Coast Applicator Gun #GCMT

NOTE: The Crest East Coast applicator gun is a non-reimbursable shop tool.

REPAIR PROCEDURE:

NOTE: If tailgate retaining strap is broken, tailgate hinges MUST be replaced.

Paint the new replacement tailgate hinges per the approved warranty refinish paint manufacturers (Akzo Nobel, Axalta, BASF, PPG, and Sherwin-Williams) recommendations.
Remove the spare tire from the tailgate if applicable.
Remove the upper hinge covers (1) and lower hinge covers (2) (Fig. 1).

Fig. 1 Tailgate Hinge Covers

1 – Upper Hinge Covers
2 – Lower Hinge Covers

NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the tailgate to replace the hinges if they are replaced one at a time.

Replace both tailgate hinges one at a time. First remove the tailgate side hinge bolts (1) then the body side hinge bolts (2), reverse order for installation (Fig. 2). Apply body sealant per manufacturer’s directions to the back surface of the hinge where it makes contact with the vehicle to prevent corrosion (Fig. 3). Refer to the detailed repair procedures available in: DealerConnect> TechCONNECT under: Service Info> 23 Body> Decklid/Hatch/Liftgate/Tailgate> HINGE> Removal / Installation.

Fig. 2 Tailgate Hinges

1 – Tailgate Side Hinge Bolts
2 – Body Side Hinge Bolts

Fig. 3 Tailgate Hinge Body Sealer Application

1 – Body Sealant Application

Install the tailgate hinge covers. If the hinge cover(s) were damaged due to tailgate hinge over extension, replace the damaged hinge cover(s) as necessary. Each hinge cover is a unique shape and CANNOT be interchanged. Refer to (Fig. 4) for identification of correct hinge cover placement.

Fig. 4 Tailgate Hinge Cover Identification

1 – Lower Body Side Hinge Cover
2 – Upper Tailgate Side Hinge Cover
3 – Upper Body Side Hinge Cover
4 – Lower Tailgate Side Hinge Cover

Install the spare tire to the tailgate if previously removed.
Remove the right rear quarter trim panel (3). One fastener is located behind the trim bezel (1) and two fasteners are under the cargo floor covering at location (2) (Fig. 5). Refer to the detailed repair procedures available in: DealerConnect> TechCONNECT under: Service Info> 08 – Electrical> 8A – Audio/Video/Entertainment/Connectivity> SPEAKER> Removal> SUBWOOFER. Quarter trim panel without subwoofer requires a similar removal process but without speaker electrical connector.

Fig. 5 Right Rear Quarter Trim Panel

1 – Quarter Trim Bezel
2 – Fasteners
3 – Quarter Trim Panel

Remove the two retaining strap to tailgate fasteners (2) and four retaining strap to body fasteners (3) then remove the tailgate retaining strap (1) from the vehicle (Fig. 6).

Fig. 6 Tailgate Retaining Strap

1 – Retaining Strap
2 – Body Side Fasteners
3 – Tailgate Side Fasteners

Install the new tailgate retaining strap (Fig. 6).
Install the right rear quarter trim panel (Fig. 5). Refer to the detailed repair procedures available in: DealerConnect> TechCONNECT under: Service Info> 08 – Electrical> 8A – Audio/Video/Entertainment/Connectivity> SPEAKER> Installation> SUBWOOFER. Quarter trim panel without subwoofer requires a similar installation process but without speaker electrical connector.
If the right side tail lamp was damaged due to tailgate hinge over extension, replace the tail lamp. Refer to the detailed repair procedures available in: DealerConnect> TechCONNECT under: Service Info> 08 – Electrical> 8L – Lamps and Lighting> Lamps> Lighting – Exterior> LAMP, Tail Stop Turn> Removal / Installation.

POLICY:

Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty. **Pre-authorization through the Vehicle Digital Imaging Program is NOT required for this repair.**

TIME ALLOWANCE:

Labor Operation No:	Description	Skill Category	Amount
23-40-20-9C	Replace Both Hinges, And Retaining Strap (1 – Semi-Skilled)	6 – Electrical and Body Systems	1.0 Hrs.
23-40-20-9D	Replace Both Hinges, Retaining Strap, And Right Tail Lamp (1 – Semi-Skilled)	6 – Electrical and Body Systems	1.1 Hrs.
	Related
23-70-63-90	Refinish Both Hinges Material Allowance $21.44	6 – Electrical and Body Systems	1.8 Hrs.

NOTE: Time allowance includes paint preparation and refinishing both hinges.

FAILURE CODE:

ZZ	Service Action

PART REIMBURSEMENT DETAIL:

Part No:	Description
NPN	1/2 Of Clear Seal 1.7 oz. Cartridge

NOTE: This part number is for reimbursement only and will need to be claimed for 1/2 the value of Clear Seal 1.7 oz. Cartridge or it will be rejected. If this is a non-MOPAR part or product, a copy of the invoice showing the purchase of the non-MOPAR part or product needs to be attached to the reimbursement claim.

NUMBER: 23-011-15
GROUP: Body
DATE: March 21, 2015

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10144848

https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2015/MC-10144848-9999.pdf

⬇ Download PDF (258.91 KB)

SaleBestseller No. 1

[Black] 2 Pack Professional Automotive Seam Sealer, Paintable Quick-Set Polyurethane Auto Body Seam Sealer for Metal Surfaces of Cars, Trucks, Etc, Includes Gloves & Tip - Black RV Roof Sealant

Bonds to All Surfaces: Our seam sealer automotive formula bonds strongly with primed, painted, or bare metal surfaces, offering a fast curing solution. Ready for paint in just 30 minutes, it serves as an effective RV roof sealant and polyurethane auto body filler without the need for sanding.
All-Weather Performance: Designed to deliver a long-lasting seal, our automotive seam sealer withstands extreme weather without shrinking or cracking. Seam seal technology ensures it remains flexible and durable for both indoor and outdoor applications, making it a versatile automotive sealant.
Easy Application & No Prep Needed: Seamlessly compatible with any standard urethane caulk gun, this auto glass sealant offers excellent adhesion without the need for surface prep. Our car seam sealer ensures quick and professional-grade gap filling.
Versatile Application Across Vehicles: Perfect as car body filler for boats, trucks, and RVs, this automotive paintable seam sealer ensures a seamless fit on body panel and seams. Acting as an RV seam sealer, it meets diverse automotive repair needs effectively.
Professional Results Guaranteed: Trusted by auto repair experts across the USA, our auto body seam sealer ensures high-quality, professional repairs with every use. Satisfaction guaranteed—see the difference in your repairs!

Bestseller No. 2

[2 Pack] Polyurethane Seam Sealer Automotive Compound Black — Paintable Auto Body Seam Sealer, Won't Shrink or Crack, Flexible Joint Filler for Bare & Painted Metal, RV Roof Sealant with Gloves, 10oz

PROFESSIONAL AUTOMOTIVE SEAM SEALER — BLACK — WON'T SHRINK OR CRACK — Polyurethane formula in black seals body panel seams, weld joints, and gaps with a durable, flexible compound. Black color blends with dark undercarriage surfaces, rocker panels, and wheel wells where visible sealant lines need to disappear.
PAINTABLE IN 30 MINUTES — Apply, wait 30 minutes, and paint right over it. Fast cure time means you can prime and topcoat the same day. Black base color requires less paint coverage than white — ideal when working on dark-colored vehicles or undercarriage areas that won't be topcoated.
BONDS TO BARE, PRIMED & PAINTED METAL — Adheres equally well to bare steel, primed surfaces, and already-painted panels. No special surface preparation beyond basic cleaning. Also bonds to fiberglass and composite panels for complete auto body restoration.
2-PACK WITH GLOVES — STANDARD CAULKING GUN COMPATIBLE — Two 10 oz cartridges provide enough seam sealer for full panel or floor pan restoration. Loads into any standard caulking gun for controlled bead application. Includes nitrile gloves for clean handling.
AUTO BODY, RV & MARINE APPLICATIONS — Use as an automotive seam sealer, RV roof sealant, or marine joint compound. Seals truck bed seams, rocker panels, door jambs, wheel wells, floor pans, and undercarriage joints. Waterproof and weather resistant once cured.

Bestseller No. 3

Seam Sealer Automotive Black - Paintable Waterproof Quick-Cure Polyurethane Auto Body Sealant for Car Metal Panels, Truck Beds, RV Roofs - Heavy Duty Kit with Gloves & Applicator, 10.5 oz

Rapid Paint & Superior Bond: Our seam sealer automotive Securely bonds bare, primed, or painted metal with zero shrinkage. Ready for paint in just 30 minutes—no sanding or extra prep. Saves hours of shop time. Perfect as a RV roof sealant and polyurethane auto body filler.
All-Weather Tough: Withstands extreme temperatures from -60°F to 300°F without shrinking or cracking. Remains permanently flexible to block moisture, prevent rust, and endure harsh outdoor environments.
Easy & No Prep: Compatible with any standard caulk gun for a no-sag, precision flow. Achieve professional-grade gap filling without complex surface prep—smooths easily into tight seams and complex curves.
Versatile & Shock-Absorb: Beyond cars—perfect for RVs, trucks, and boats. This auto paintable seam sealer absorbs road vibrations and door-slam impacts, ensuring chassis and body seams stay intact under heavy-duty stress.
Pro-Trust Without Concern: The heavy-duty choice for mechanics and DIYers. We stand behind our urethane auto seam sealer with a hassle-free substitute or reimbursement of your order value if needed.

Bestseller No. 4

3M Urethane Seam Sealer, 08367, Black Color, High Solids, Permanently Flexible, 310 mL/10.5 fl oz Cartridge

SINGLE COMPONENT FORMULA: Adheres well to bare metal, primed metal and painted surfaces
MOISTURE CURING PROPERTY: Provides excellent performance in high heat and humidity environments
NON-SHRINKING, NON-CRACKING: Remains flexible and offers superior results to solvent-based sealers
QUICK PAINTABILITY: Allows painting after 30-45 minutes
THICK CONSISTENCY: Fills large voids and can be smoothed to a featheredge or brushed

Bestseller No. 5

Polyurethane Seam Sealer Automotive Compound — Paintable Auto Body Seam Sealer White, Won't Shrink or Crack, Flexible Joint Filler for Bare & Painted Metal, RV Roof Sealant with Gloves, 10.5 fl oz

PROFESSIONAL AUTOMOTIVE SEAM SEALER — WON'T SHRINK OR CRACK — Polyurethane formula seals body panel seams, weld joints, and gaps with a durable, flexible compound that stays put. Unlike generic fillers, this seam sealer maintains flexibility through temperature extremes and road vibration without cracking or pulling away.
PAINTABLE IN 30 MINUTES — Apply, wait 30 minutes, and paint right over it. Fast cure time means you can prime and topcoat the same day — no overnight wait between seam sealing and painting. Accepts all automotive primers and topcoats.
BONDS TO BARE, PRIMED & PAINTED METAL — Adheres equally well to bare steel, primed surfaces, and already-painted panels. No special surface preparation beyond basic cleaning. Also bonds to fiberglass and composite panels for complete auto body restoration work.
SINGLE CARTRIDGE WITH GLOVES — STANDARD CAULKING GUN COMPATIBLE — One 10.5 fl oz cartridge provides enough seam sealer for targeted panel repairs, door jamb sealing, or spot work. Loads into any standard caulking gun for controlled bead application. Includes nitrile gloves for clean handling.
AUTO BODY, RV & MARINE APPLICATIONS — Use as an automotive seam sealer, RV roof sealant, or marine joint compound. Seals truck bed seams, rocker panels, door jambs, wheel wells, floor pans, and undercarriage joints. Waterproof and weather resistant once cured.