A dented or rusted tailgate makes loading gear awkward, rattles on rough roads, and can even affect safety if the latch fails. Waiting too long to replace it can cause your vehicle to lose its weather protection and lower its resale value. Fixing it quickly restores your ride’s utility and prevents extra body damage in the long run.
Drivers usually want a tailgate that fits straight out of the box, doesn’t weigh like tin foil, and won’t rot away after one winter of salted roads.
A solid aftermarket tailgate is typically made of the same quality of steel and coatings as factory parts. The key is in choosing the right brand that builds parts that fit well, last long, and won’t drain your wallet. Start your search for high-quality yet affordable tailgates at CarParts.com today.
Here are five aftermarket brands that consistently deliver dependable, direct-fit tailgates for popular trucks and SUVs:
Few names in American car culture are as recognizable as JC Whitney®. Starting in Chicago in 1915, it grew from a scrap yard into a catalog giant. Today, it still carries that reputation for practical parts at fair prices. JC Whitney® is the name old-school enthusiasts recognize, but it’s also modern enough to keep pace with today’s trucks.
Features
Price range: $200 to $375
Options include 2-piece kits with step bumpers and gates for fleetside/styleside beds.
Material: Steel
Finish: Ships primed or painted; step bumpers often in chrome.
Direct-fit replacements that drop right in
1-year unlimited-mileage warranty across the board.
Cross-references to OE and Partslink numbers for quick matchups.
Our Score: 10/10.
ReplaceXL keeps things simple: affordable tailgates built to OE spec with warranty coverage included. Many of its panels are CAPA Certified, which means a third-party has measured them against factory parts for fit and quality. The brand has a steady following thanks to its no-nonsense mix of pricing and certification.
Features
Price range: $130 to $1,040
Most designs are shell-only; hardware is usually not included.
Steel construction with a primed surface ready for paint.
A good number of parts carry CAPA certification for extra assurance.
Sold individually with clear OE and Partslink references.
Comes with a 1-year unlimited-mileage warranty.
Our Score: 9/10.
Key Parts® made its name supplying sheet metal for restorations and rust repair. They apply that same precision to newer trucks, highlighting strict ISO 9001 standards and stamping tolerances that cut down on panel waves and alignment issues. It’s a trusted pick for anyone who wants steel that measures up close to factory.
Features
Price range: $150 to $590
Latch and hardware are typically not included.
Steel panels with a primed surface for paint-matching.
Manufactured with ISO 9001 quality processes and computer-checked tolerances.
Warranty coverage varies, but most listings show a limited guarantee.
Our Score: 9/10.
Sherman® has long been a go-to for replacement body panels, especially in the collision-repair world. The company offers one of the broadest catalogs, making it easier to find panels for older or less common trucks. Many Sherman products are also CAPA Certified, reflecting the brand’s reputation for consistent fit.
Features
Price range: $90 to $670
Steel build, usually primed for paint.
Sold individually.
Many panels come with a lifetime limited warranty.
Precision-stamped for a smoother fit and quicker install.
Wide catalog coverage, including less common truck applications.
Our Score: 9/10.
Replacement is a line built for drivers who want dependable parts at a lower price point. The catalog spans everything from bare shells to kits that include cables, hinges, and handles. This option is perfect if you’re dealing with more than just cosmetic damage.
Features
Prices range: $80 to $655
Steel tailgates, usually primed for painting.
Sold either individually or as kits.
1-year unlimited-mileage warranty.
Our Score: 8/10.
JC Whitney® offers an all-in-one solution that balances price and functionality. More importantly, its warranty offers peace of mind. By choosing a direct-fit OE replacement, installation is fast and hassle-free. JC Whitney® is a straightforward pick for anyone looking to get their truck or SUV back in shape quickly.
Always match the tailgate to your exact vehicle, and consider your bed style, license plate slots, and camera or sensor holes. OE and Partslink numbers listed with the part make this process easier and avoid guesswork.
Look for parts that carry CAPA certification. These parts have been tested against factory standards. Brands like Key Parts® also mention ISO 9001 processes, which help keep their stamping and coating consistent.
Most tailgates are stamped steel, sold primed so they’re ready for paint. Some brands highlight computer-checked tolerances that reduce ripples in the sheet metal. If you drive in salty or wet climates, consider applying extra cavity wax or rust-proofing once the new tailgate is installed.
Sometimes you need more than the shell. If your hinges, handle, or cables are shot, a kit will cover everything instead of piecing parts together separately.
Warranty coverage signals confidence. Most of these brands offer 1-year unlimited mileage, with some even offering lifetime protection. Check return policies as well. You’ll want a seller who makes exchanges simple.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.