Soft close on tailgate T6.1

[Cali Nova]

The soft close mechanism on my '24 plate T6.1 California Ocean is not working. This is the feature that pulls the tailgate closed the final few mm when you shut it and it makes a whirring sound. I've tried to fault find via Google and I've added WD40 to the latch, started and stopped the vehicle with the tailgate open but no joy. Try as I might, I can't find anywhere that tells you which fuse is responsible for this mechanism and where it is located so I can try that. Does anyone know where this fuse is please or anything else I can try before taking to the dealer?

 

[Roger Boeken]

take a look at fuse SH19 10A

rear lid control unit
or dirty contacts ?

 

[Cali Nova]

Thanks. I’ll try and find that and report back.

 

[Cali Nova]

Problem solved. It was a mechanical issue. The mechanism was not engaging properly. I just needed to manually click the latch with my finger with the door open then open the mechanism with the door still open. Added more WD40 and repeated several times. It’s now working perfectly again. May only be temporary and the mechanism may be on the way out but will monitor.

 

[lohr500]

Good result.

I would be tempted to spray a light lithium or PTFE grease type product into the mechanism now you've got it working.
WD-40 is more of a solvent and water displacing fluid, rather than a lubricant.