I own a 2009 Nissan Frontier I bought new two years ago. I just noticed the top right corner of the tailgate outer skin has seperated about 1/4" from tailgates inner panel for perhaps two inches, down to where the outside skin is crimped over the inner panel. Left side is fine. It will be repaired or replaced under warranty. My Nissan man says he has never seen this before. I happened to look at a buddie’s 05 Frontier and found exact same thing, again, only top right. It is the only other one I have checked!!
Yes I have carried some decent long loads of lumber. I did the same with my (bought new ) 89 Toyota. And the tailgate on the Toyo " wowed" a little, but held together fine and I blamed no one but me.
I did not carry excessive weight load in my new truck. I partially blame that these two inches( that have seperated 1/4") are not welded. I think they may be glued, the rest is spot welded…
I am worried regardless of repair or replace this may occur again, only warranty is almost gone.
I am curious if others have experienced this problem.
If still under warranty it might benefit you to check it.
Boyd