2019 Ram 2500 Tailgate: Expert Review [2026]
Replacement options for a 2019 Ram 2500 tailgate range from unpainted shells to complete assemblies with integrated electronics. It is vital to distinguish between the standard and Multi-Function designs to ensure compatibility with your backup camera and locking sensors. Prices typically vary from $400 for aftermarket shells to over $1,200 for factory-original units.
🎯 Key Takeaways
- Select unpainted shells to save on initial costs if painting locally.
- Confirm your backup camera and sensor configuration before purchasing hardware.
- OEM Mopar parts provide the most reliable fit for electronic actuators.
- Salvage yards are ideal for finding pre-painted, complete ‘take-off’ assemblies.
- Verify compatibility between ‘Classic’ body styles and ‘New’ 2019 designs.
Finding a replacement tailgate for your 2019 Ram 2500 can cost anywhere from $400 for a bare aftermarket shell to over $2,500 for a fully loaded OEM assembly. The total price depends entirely on whether you need a paint-ready steel panel or a complete unit with integrated cameras and power-locking actuators. Because 2019 marked a significant design shift for Ram trucks, ensuring you buy the correct shell and internal harness is the difference between a ten-minute installation and a frustrating weekend of rewiring.
Accuracy matters because the 2019 Ram 2500 (Fifth Generation) uses specific mounting points and electronic connectors that differ from older 2500 models and even some 1500 Classic variations. If you are sourcing parts from a salvage yard or an online wholesaler, you must distinguish between the “New Body Style” components and legacy parts. This guide breaks down the specific sourcing options, configuration differences, and internal hardware you need to get your bed secured and your backup camera functional again.
Types of 2019 Ram 2500 Tailgates: Standard vs. Multi-Function
The 2019 Ram 2500 predominantly features the traditional dampened tailgate, but sourcing a replacement requires knowing your specific trim’s hardware capabilities. Unlike the 1500, which heavily marketed the 60/40 split multi-function tailgate, most 2500 Heavy Duty models rely on a high-strength aluminum alloy shell designed for weight reduction and durability. When shopping, you will encounter two primary configurations that dictate the price and compatibility of the part.
The Standard Dampened Tailgate
Most 2019 Ram 2500 trucks come equipped with a dampened tailgate. This system uses an internal torsion bar and an external strut to prevent the gate from slamming down when opened. If you are buying a replacement shell, it must have the internal reinforcement bracket to support this torsion assembly.
- OEM New (Primed): $650 – $900 (Shell only)
- Aftermarket (CAPA Certified): $380 – $550
- Used (Paint Matched): $800 – $1,200 (Commonly found on eBay or local salvage yards)
If your truck has the Remote Tailgate Release feature (standard on Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited trims), the shell must have the correct internal clearance for the electronic solenoid. A base Tradesman shell might lack the specific mounting clips for the power-release wiring harness, forcing you to use adhesive mounts or zip ties, which can lead to mechanical failure over time.
The “Power Release” Configuration
While the physical shape of the 2019 tailgate is consistent across most trims, the internal “guts” vary significantly. The power release version allows you to drop the tailgate using your key fob. When sourcing a used tailgate, you must verify the wiring harness connector.
- 8-Pin Connector: Standard on trucks with a basic backup camera and manual locks.
- 12-Pin or Dual-Plug Connector: Required for trucks with the Surround View Camera system or the LED cargo light integrated into the handle.
Buying a tailgate with the wrong harness will disable your backup camera and your remote locking feature. Always check the VIN of the donor vehicle if buying used, or confirm the part number (commonly 68262484AD for the shell) with a Mopar parts dealer to ensure the electronic interface matches your truck’s chassis harness.
From Start to Finish: 2019 Ram 2500 Tailgate Management Explained
The 2019 Ram 2500 is a powerhouse of a truck, but there are many scenarios where you might need to remove or service the tailgate, such as installing a bed liner, upgrading to a fifth-wheel gate, or performing bodywork. This guide provides a comprehensive, professional-grade walkthrough for removing and reinstalling your tailgate safely. Because the 2019 model year introduced more complex electronics, including backup cameras and remote locking mechanisms, following these steps precisely is essential to avoid damaging sensitive wiring or the heavy steel components of the truck.
Step 1: Preparation and Tool Gathering
What you need: A small flathead screwdriver, a pair of work gloves, a blanket or moving pad, and a second person to assist with the weight.
Instructions: Before you begin, clear the truck bed of any debris or cargo that might interfere with your movement. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. The 2019 Ram 2500 tailgate is significantly heavier than half-ton models, often weighing between 50 and 70 pounds depending on the trim level and accessories. Place a moving pad or soft blanket on the ground or a workbench nearby where you plan to store the tailgate once it is removed. Having a second person is not just a suggestion; it is a safety requirement to prevent dropping the gate and damaging the paint or the hinges. Ensure you have your key fob handy, as you may need to lock or unlock the gate to test the electronic latch during the process.
Pro Tip: Spray a small amount of penetrating oil on the support cable bolts and hinge points about 20 minutes before starting to ensure smooth movement during the mechanical disconnection phase.
Step 2: Disconnecting the Electronic Harness
What you need: A flashlight and perhaps a small flathead screwdriver to manipulate the locking tab.
Instructions: Modern 2019 Ram 2500s are equipped with a backup camera and electronic locking latches, which means there is a wiring harness connecting the tailgate to the truck’s main electrical system. Crawl underneath the rear bumper on the driver’s side. You will see a connector bundle tucked up near the frame rail. Look for the specific harness that leads into the bottom of the tailgate. Most 2019 models feature a red locking tab on this connector. Slide the red tab back (away from the connection), press the release lever, and gently pull the connectors apart. Once disconnected, look for the plastic dust cap (usually stored in the glovebox or near the jack tools) and snap it onto the truck-side harness to protect it from moisture and dirt while the tailgate is off.
Pro Tip: If the red locking tab is stuck due to road grime, do not force it with pliers. Use a can of compressed air to blow out the grit before trying to slide it again.
Step 3: Freeing the Support Cables
What you need: A flathead screwdriver and your assistant to hold the gate at a specific height.
Instructions: Open the tailgate fully. Have your assistant lift the gate slightly (about 2 to 3 inches) to take the tension off the support cables. On each side of the gate, there is a steel cable attached to a post on the truck bed. These cables are held in place by a spring-loaded metal clip. Use your flathead screwdriver to gently pry the metal clip upward while simultaneously sliding the cable eyelet off the mounting post. Repeat this on both the driver and passenger sides. Once the cables are free, let them hang loosely against the tailgate. Be extremely careful at this stage: without the cables, the only things holding the gate to the truck are the hinges, and the gate can fall if not supported by your assistant.
Pro Tip: Wrap the metal ends of the cables in a small piece of cloth or painters tape to prevent them from scratching the paint on the tailgate while you maneuver the unit.
Step 4: Aligning the Pivot Point for Removal
What you need: Two people to stabilize and lift the tailgate.
Instructions: The 2019 Ram 2500 uses a traditional “cup and post” hinge system. The driver’s side hinge is a full circle (permanent pivot), while the passenger side hinge has a slot in it. With your assistant holding the driver’s side, stand on the passenger side. Close the tailgate slowly until it reaches approximately a 45-degree angle. At this specific angle, the flat sides of the hinge post on the truck bed align with the opening in the hinge cup on the tailgate. This is the only position where the passenger side of the gate can be lifted off the truck. Grip the bottom corners of the gate firmly and prepare for the weight to shift entirely into your hands as the hinge releases.
Pro Tip: If the gate doesn’t slide off easily at 45 degrees, try toggling it between 35 and 50 degrees while pulling gently upward; sometimes the factory tolerances are tight.
Step 5: Final Removal and Storage
What you need: A clear path to your storage area and a soft surface for the tailgate.
Instructions: Once the passenger side hinge is clear, pull the entire tailgate toward the passenger side of the truck. This action slides the driver’s side hinge cup off the fixed post on the driver’s side of the bed. Now that the tailgate is completely disconnected, work with your assistant to carry it away from the vehicle. Always carry the tailgate with the exterior side (the side with the RAM logo) facing away from your body to avoid scratching it against belt buckles or buttons. Set it down on your prepared blanket or moving pad. It is best to store it vertically against a wall with the bottom edge on a soft surface, or flat with the inner side facing down to protect the camera lens and handle mechanism.
Pro Tip: While the tailgate is off, take a moment to wipe down the hinge posts on the truck bed. Removing the old, gritty grease and applying a fresh layer will make the gate operate much more smoothly once reinstalled.
Step 6: Reinstallation and Hinge Alignment
What you need: Assistance from your partner and white lithium grease.
Instructions: Reinstalling is essentially the reverse of removal, but it requires more precision to avoid chipping the paint. First, apply a small amount of white lithium grease to both hinge posts. Carry the gate back to the truck and slide the driver’s side hinge cup onto the driver’s side post first. This acts as your anchor. Once that side is secure, tilt the gate to that same 45-degree angle used during removal. Align the passenger side hinge slot with the flat-sided post on the truck. Lower the gate onto the post until it seats fully. Have your assistant maintain a firm grip on the gate to ensure it doesn’t slip off the hinges while you move to the next step of reattaching the cables.
Pro Tip: Always double-check that the driver’s side is fully seated before letting go of the passenger side; if the driver’s side is only halfway on, the gate could twist and damage the hinge bracket.
Step 7: Reattaching Cables and Electronics
What you need: Flashlight and the dust caps removed in Step 2.
Instructions: While your assistant holds the gate in a partially open position, slide the support cable eyelets back onto the truck bed posts. You should hear the spring clips click into place, signifying they are locked. Once the cables are secure, the gate can support its own weight. Lower the gate fully. Crawl back under the bumper and remove the protective dust caps from the wiring harness. Align the pins of the electronic connectors and press them together until you hear a distinct click. Slide the red locking tab back into the “locked” position. Ensure the wiring is tucked away as it was originally so it does not get pinched when the tailgate is closed or snagged by road debris.
Pro Tip: Check the rubber grommet where the wire enters the tailgate; ensure it is seated tightly in the hole to prevent water from entering the interior of the tailgate shell.
✅ Final Checklist
- Confirm both support cable spring clips are fully seated on the mounting posts.
- Verify the electronic harness red locking tab is pushed into the locked position.
- Check the backup camera feed on the dashboard display to ensure a clear signal.
- Test the remote locking/unlocking function using the key fob.
- Open and close the tailgate 3-4 times to ensure the latches catch and release smoothly without binding.
Important Notes:
- Safety Warning: The tailgate is heavy and awkward. Never attempt removal alone, as a drop can result in personal injury or thousands of dollars in body damage.
- Professional Help: If your 2019 Ram has the “Power Release” tailgate and the electronic latch fails to respond after reinstallation, you may need a dealership to reset the body control module (BCM).
- Estimated Time: 20–30 minutes for removal; 20–30 minutes for reinstallation.
- Cost Range: $0 (DIY) to $150 (Professional labor at a body shop).
Essential Component Breakdown: Latches, Cameras, and Actuators
If your tailgate shell is intact but the gate won’t open or the camera is blacked out, you don’t need a full replacement. The 2019 Ram 2500 tailgate is a modular assembly of several high-wear mechanical and electronic parts. Identifying the specific failing component can save you hundreds of dollars compared to buying a full assembly.
Electronic Actuators and Locking Mechanisms
The most common failure point on the 2019 model is the tailgate lock actuator. This small motorized unit sits behind the handle and pulls the latch rods when you press the fob or handle button. If you hear a clicking sound but the gate stays locked, the plastic gears inside the actuator are likely stripped.
- Replacement Actuator Cost: $45 – $110
- Symptoms of Failure: Intermittent locking, gate sticking on one side, or failure to drop via remote.
The latch assemblies themselves are located at the far left and right edges of the gate. These are connected to the center handle by metal rods. If your gate feels “loose” or rattles, these rods may have popped out of their plastic retaining clips, which are 50-cent parts available at most auto parts stores.
Backup Camera and Handle Integration
The 2019 Ram 2500 utilizes a high-definition backup camera integrated directly into the tailgate handle. If you are upgrading your tailgate or replacing a damaged handle, you must be aware of the camera resolution. The 2019 models moved toward a digital signal which is not backwards compatible with the analog systems found in 2018 and older Rams.
- OEM Camera Handle Assembly: $220 – $350
- Aftermarket Camera Kits: $90 – $160
Pro Tip: When removing the camera from a damaged tailgate to move it to a new one, be extremely careful with the coaxial connector. These pins are fragile and easily bent. If you are buying an aftermarket tailgate shell, it often does not include the handle or camera, so you will need to transfer your existing hardware. Ensure the mounting holes for the camera lens align perfectly; otherwise, your “ParkSense” guidelines will be crooked on your infotainment screen.
Tailgate Bushings and Pivot Points
Every time you remove the tailgate, you risk damaging the pivot bushings. These are the plastic inserts on the bottom corners of the gate that sit on the truck’s hinge pins. On the 2019 model, the passenger side hinge is slotted to allow for easy removal. If these bushings are cracked or missing, the tailgate will vibrate excessively, leading to paint wear on the bed corners and potential latch misalignment. A full set of replacement bushings typically costs less than $20 and should be replaced whenever you install a new or refurbished gate.
Sourcing Options: OEM Mopar vs. Aftermarket Replacement Shells
When you are looking to replace your 2019 Ram 2500 tailgate, the biggest fork in the road is deciding between a genuine Mopar part and an aftermarket alternative. Because the 2019 model year marked a significant design shift for Ram, precision is everything. An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tailgate is guaranteed to line up perfectly with your bed rails and hinge points, but it comes with a premium price tag.
Why Genuine Mopar Matters for High-Trim Tech
If your Ram 2500 is equipped with the power release feature, blind-spot sensors, or the high-resolution backup camera, sticking with OEM parts is often the safest bet. These components are designed to fit into specific internal brackets that aftermarket shells might not replicate perfectly. Using Mopar parts ensures that your truck’s electrical harness plugs in without tension or the need for custom modifications.
- Perfect Gaps: OEM shells maintain the tight, consistent body lines Ram is known for.
- Internal Reinforcement: Genuine parts are built to handle the weight of the 2500’s heavy-duty cycles.
- Resale Value: Keeping your truck “all original” can help maintain its value when it’s time to trade in.
The Aftermarket Advantage: CAPA-Certified Options
If you are looking to save money, aftermarket shells are a viable route, provided you look for CAPA-certified parts. These parts are tested to ensure they meet the same fit and finish standards as the originals. While they may require a bit more “massaging” during the installation to get the gaps just right, they can save you hundreds of dollars compared to the dealership price.
- Cost Savings: Often 30-50% cheaper than dealership prices.
- Availability: Usually easier to find in stock at local parts warehouses.
- Great for Work Trucks: If your truck is a dedicated job site vehicle, an aftermarket shell offers the best ROI.
Cost Analysis and Paint Matching for Tailgate Restoration
Restoring your 2019 Ram 2500 to its former glory involves more than just buying a piece of metal. You have to account for the “naked” shell versus a fully loaded assembly. Most replacement tailgates are sold as shells, meaning you will need to transfer your existing handle, latch, emblems, and camera, or purchase those separately.
Estimating the Total Bill: Parts vs. Labor
For a 2019 Ram 2500, a new OEM shell typically ranges from $600 to $900, while high-quality aftermarket shells land between $350 and $550. However, the “hidden” cost is the paint. Unless you find a lucky match at a salvage yard, you are looking at professional paint services. In a standard body shop, prepping, priming, and painting a tailgate usually adds another $400 to $700 to the total invoice.
- Naked Shell: Just the metal; requires all hardware and trim.
- Loaded Assembly: Includes handle and hinges; significantly more expensive but saves labor time.
- Salvage Finds: A “take-off” tailgate from a wrecked truck can be the most cost-effective if the color matches.
The “Blending” Factor: Achieving a Factory Finish
The 2019 Ram 2500 comes in several complex colors, such as Delmonico Red Pearl or Granite Crystal Metallic. These colors use metallic flakes that can be difficult to match perfectly. To ensure the tailgate doesn’t look like a different shade than the rest of the truck, many body shops recommend “blending” the paint into the rear quarter panels. This provides a seamless transition but increases the labor cost. If you are on a budget, providing the shop with your VIN or paint code (found on the driver’s side door jamb) is the first step to a successful match.
Conclusion
Replacing the tailgate on your 2019 Ram 2500 is a significant investment, but it is essential for maintaining the utility and appearance of your heavy-duty rig. Whether you choose the precision of a Mopar OEM shell or the cost-effectiveness of a CAPA-certified aftermarket part, the key is focusing on the technical compatibility of your truck’s specific trim and tech features. Always factor in the cost of professional painting and hardware transfer to get an accurate picture of your total budget.
Next Steps: Start by identifying your exact paint code and checking if your current backup camera and latch hardware are still functional. Once you have that info, call a few local body shops for quotes on both parts and labor. With a little research, you’ll have your Ram back to looking brand new and ready for the next haul!
💬 Quick Questions & Answers
Does a Ram 1500 tailgate fit a 2500?
The 2019 Ram 1500 ‘New Body Style’ tailgates are not compatible with the 2500 model.
Can I buy a pre-painted 2019 Ram 2500 tailgate?
Some specialty online retailers offer paint-to-match services, though OEM shells usually arrive primed.
Is the backup camera included in a new shell?
No, replacement shells are typically bare metal; cameras and handles must be transferred or bought separately.
Where is the paint code located on a 2019 Ram 2500?
The paint code is found on the VIN sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb.
What is the most common cause of tailgate failure?
The electronic release actuator is the most frequent point of failure in 2019 models.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between an OEM Mopar tailgate and an aftermarket one?
An OEM Mopar shell typically costs between $700 and $1,100, while aftermarket versions can be found for $350 to $550. While aftermarket options are cheaper, OEM units offer superior fitment and better weather sealing for internal electronics.
Will a tailgate from a 2018 Ram 2500 fit my 2019 model?
Yes, because the Ram 2500 retained the previous generation’s body style for the 2019 model year, many 2010-2019 components are interchangeable. Always check your VIN with a dealer to confirm the exact part number match.
Can I upgrade my standard tailgate to a Multi-Function (60/40) tailgate?
This is a complex and expensive conversion that requires different hinges, specific bed-side reinforcements, and a unique wiring harness. It is generally not recommended as a simple swap due to structural differences in the truck bed.
What hardware do I need to transfer from my old tailgate to a new shell?
You will need to move the locking handle, the backup camera module, the internal wiring harness, the left and right latches, and the support cables. If your truck has a dampened opening, you must also transfer the torsion bar or strut assembly.
Where can I find the most affordable used tailgates?
The most cost-effective sources are local salvage yards or national databases like Car-Part.com. These ‘take-off’ units are often sold as complete assemblies, which can save you hundreds of dollars on internal hardware and painting.
Does the 2019 Ram 2500 tailgate have a remote release feature?
Yes, higher trim levels like the Laramie and Limited feature a remote-release electronic actuator. When replacing the tailgate, ensure the replacement handle assembly supports the electronic solenoid connector used by your truck.
