How To Replace A GM Power Liftgate Pull Down Motor
Replacing a liftgate pull down motor sounds like a complicated project. To be clear, a liftgate is also called a tailgate by some people. The project is actually easier and more straightforward than most people think. You would only need a few basic tools and a few hours of your time.
If you’re looking for a GM liftgate pull down motor replacement tutorial, you came to the right place.
Where Is The GM Liftgate Pull Down Motor Located?
Image Credit: J. Robling
On a GM vehicle, the liftgate pull down motor is usually next to the support strut. It’s most commonly on the driver’s side. Either the left or right rear inner plastic quarter panel covers the motor. You would need to remove the panel to access the motor.
The Tools You Will Need To Replace Your GM Liftgate Pull Down Motor
To complete this job, you’ll need basic tools. The exact tools you’ll need depends on your GM model. For a 2007-2014 Chevy Suburban, you’ll need the following tools:
- Torx sockets (commonly T20 and T30)
- Ratchet and extension
- Trim panel tool
- Flat blade screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
Get A Replacement Liftgate Pull Down Motor First
If you buy an OEM liftgate pull down motor from a dealership, expect to pay a hefty markup of about 30%. You’ll get a much better price online. We’re an authorized dealer of genuine OEM GM parts. Our overhead costs are so low that we can offer the lowest total transaction prices you’ll find online.
For instance, this liftgate pull down motor for 2015-2020 GM SUVs is almost half off the price you’d see at a dealership. If you’re looking to save money on an OEM replacement liftgate pull down motor, shop with us. Look up your GM model in our catalog of tailgate and liftgate pull down motors to see if we have one for your vehicle!
How To Replace A GM Liftgate Pull Down Motor
When you have your replacement motor and all the tools you need, you can start the replacement process. The process varies slightly between GM models. We based the following set of steps on the 2007-2014 Chevy Suburban. If you have a different GM model, you may still be able to follow these steps with ease.
- Lift the rear gate and then support it with something sturdy. This is a good safety measure in case your vehicle’s struts are too weak to hold the tailgate open.
- If necessary, remove or fold down the rear seats. This gives you more room to work.
- Remove the trim pieces covering the rear quarter panels on the driver’s side. If your tailgate pull down motor is located on the other side, remove the trim pieces on that side instead.
- Remove the panels. You should be able to see the tailgate pull down motor now.
- Disconnect all the connectors.
- Remove the bolts holding the motor in place.
- Remove the motor.
- Install the new motor in the reverse order of removal.
Do you have any questions about the replacement process? Or do you need help finding the right replacement part for your vehicle? Either way, we'll be happy to help! Contact us here, and we'll get back to you ASAP.