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Pop & Lock Tailgate Defender For Tacoma (1996-2025)

290 reviews
$34.95
In stock

First it was catalytic converters, now people are stealing tailgates at a high rate as they're extremely valuable and can be stolen in seconds even if you have an OEM lock on your tailgate. Protect your tailgate from theft with the Pop & Lock Tailgate Defender, a universal tailgate lock designed to fit any truck to prevent tailgate theft. Similar to the design as a padlock, the Tailgate Defender fits around the passenger side of the tailgate hinge and locks the tailgate to the truck. Once locked into place, the tailgate can easily open and close but cannot be removed. As tailgate thefts are on the rise, the Tailgate Defender is a terrific low-cost option to help prevent your tailgate from being stolen. Installs in seconds with no special tools required. Includes a set of keys for easy removal.

How to Remove the Pop & Lock Tailgate Defender

These are built to be tough — that’s how they stop tailgate theft. But if you need to take yours off, here’s the easiest way:

  1. Hold the lock in the palm of one hand.

  2. Slip your pointer finger through the metal loop and grip onto the foam pad.

  3. Using that same hand, use your palm to twist the key to unlock it.

  4. At the same time, pull the metal ring firmly with your other hand.

  5. It may take a strong pull, but it will come off.

A little force is normal — it’s designed to stay secure!

  • Helps prevent your tailgate from being stolen
  • Universal design, check the application for proper fit
  • Installs in seconds with no special tools

INSTALL VIDEO:

Customer Reviews
4.9 Based on 290 Reviews
5 ★
94% 
274
4 ★
4% 
11
3 ★
0% 
1
2 ★
0% 
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1 ★
1% 
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Customer Photos
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Filter Reviews:
CB
10/25/2025
Cristian B.
United States

Amazing product

Easy 1,2,3 steps, in less than 5 min I was done, totally worth it

RL
10/19/2025
Rex L.
United States

Tailgate Theft Protection

Excellent device for keeping someone from stealing your tailgate.

JY
10/15/2025
Jack Y.
United States

Just a joke

Thief can easily break/cut with simple tool

10/18/2025

Tacoma Lifestyle

Hey Jack, Thanks for sharing your feedback. We're sorry to hear that you're disappointed with the Tailgate Defender. While it's true that no theft-deterrent device is completely foolproof, the Pop & Lock Tailgate Defender is designed as a strong deterrent, not an impenetrable barrier. Its main purpose is to make it significantly harder and more time-consuming for someone to steal your tailgate. These are made with a thick high-grade steel, and we can assure you cutting these would not be easy, and would require industrial grade tools.

AM
10/13/2025
Annie M.
United States

Pop and Lock Tailgate Lock

Super easy to install. Took less than 10 minutes. No issues so far!

TK
10/13/2025
Tyler K.
United States

Tailgate defender

Having some peace of mind about my tailgate being secured is great! Easy install.