2023-2025 Lexus RX Tailgate Troubles: Why It Beeps and Won't Close

Known Issues & Common Symptoms

For the 2023-2025 Lexus RX350, RX350h, RX450h+, and RX500h, the most widely reported issue with the power back door is not a complete motor failure, but a failure to close. Many owners report that the tailgate opens normally but refuses to close when using the key fob, interior button, or the button on the hatch itself. Instead of closing, the vehicle typically emits two short beeps, indicating a fault.

Is It the Motor or Something Else?

Before assuming the main lift motor is bad, it's important to rule out more common and simpler causes for these new models:

• Pinch Sensor Fault: This is a leading theory among owners and technicians for the 'beeps-but-won't-close' issue. The safety pinch sensor, a rubber strip along the opening, can malfunction or be overly sensitive, falsely detecting an obstruction and preventing the door from closing. Some owners note this problem is more frequent in hot weather, suggesting thermal expansion might affect the sensor.
🎬 Watch: How to identify and fix a faulty pinch sensor
• Weak 12V Battery: Modern Lexus vehicles are packed with sensitive electronics. A weak 12-volt auxiliary battery can cause a host of strange electrical gremlins, including erratic power liftgate operation, even on a new vehicle.
• System Settings & Vehicle State: The power back door function can be disabled via a button in the glove box—this should be the first thing you check. Also, the system may be designed not to close if a passenger door is ajar or if the vehicle is running, which can be confusing.
• Initialization/Calibration Needed: Sometimes the system's memory can become corrupted. A reset procedure, which may involve manually closing the hatch and then holding the close button until it beeps multiple times, can sometimes resolve the issue.
🎬 See this quick video on resetting your Lexus tailgate memory

Symptoms of a Failing Tailgate Lift Motor

If you've ruled out the common issues above, the lift motor itself may be failing. Symptoms pointing to a bad motor include:

• Grinding or Straining Noises: Unusual sounds during operation suggest the internal gears are stripped or the motor is struggling.
• Slow or Jerky Movement: The hatch may move slower than usual or stutter as it opens or closes.
• Fails to Open or Close Fully: The motor may only lift the gate partway before stopping.
• Gate Opens But Won't Stay Up: If the hatch opens under power but then slowly drifts down, the gas-pressurized portion of the strut has failed, requiring replacement of the entire unit.
• No Sound or Movement at All: If there's no beep and no sound from the motor, it could indicate a complete electrical failure of the unit or a blown fuse.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of early 2026, there are no specific NHTSA safety recalls for the tailgate lift motor or power back door system on the 2023-2025 Lexus RX models. However, there are recalls for other components on these vehicles, such as for the rearview camera display, which can sometimes be related to the same central electronics. Given the number of owner complaints about the tailgate not closing, it is possible that Lexus has issued internal Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to dealers to address the pinch sensor or software issues. If you are experiencing problems, it is worth asking a dealer to check for any relevant TSBs for your VIN.

Buying a Used Tailgate Lift Motor

A new OEM tailgate lift motor from a Lexus dealer can be very expensive. A quality used OEM motor is an excellent alternative, offering the same fit and function at a fraction of the price. Here’s what to look for:

• Verify the Part Number: The most critical step is to match the part number. For the 2023-2025 Lexus RX series, the right-hand (passenger side) power back door unit is part number 68910-48180. The left-hand side will have a different number. Always confirm the part number from your original unit before ordering.
• Physical Inspection: When you receive the part, inspect it carefully. Look for cracks in the housing, damage to the electrical connector, and bent or damaged mounting points. Avoid any units that show signs of corrosion or water intrusion around the seals or connector.
• Source Vehicle Information: If possible, get the mileage and history of the vehicle the part came from. A low-mileage part from a vehicle with no rear-end collision damage is ideal.
• Why Used OEM is a Smart Choice: For a complex electronic part like this, a used OEM unit is often superior to a new, cheap aftermarket alternative. The OEM part was designed to integrate perfectly with your Lexus's electronics, ensuring proper communication with control modules and sensors. Aftermarket versions, if available, can sometimes cause compatibility issues or lack the precise calibration of the original.

Replacement Information

Replacing the tailgate lift motor is a moderately difficult job that a skilled DIYer can accomplish.

• Difficulty Rating: 3 out of 5.
• Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours.
• Tools Needed: Trim removal tool kit, basic socket set, small flathead screwdriver or pick tool.

The general process involves removing interior trim panels on the tailgate and D-pillar to access the motor's mounting points and electrical connector. The most important step is to securely prop the heavy tailgate open before attempting to remove the old motor, as it will fall once the strut is disconnected.

After installation, the new motor may require an initialization procedure. This often involves manually closing the tailgate and then using the power button, or holding the close button for several seconds until the system beeps to confirm it has learned the new limits.

Frequently Asked Questions