Tailgate only open 1/3 way than closes 2008 tahoe

put a screw-driver under it AND PRY OUT?? if it is a ford, it is shot to useless-ness.. if it is a Chevy,screwdriver, if it is anything else, it is shot.lol.

spray penetrating oil into door latch mechanism, all angles and holes, up and down and keep working door open and close. It is dry and gummed up. a good maintenance procedure for all doors, hinges, and especially tailgate mechanisms. once you have a poorly latched tailgate open going down the road, and loose your cargo, you will learn to notice when things are not latching properly!

HI,
You have a 'short to ground' wiring issue. Either the switch that is activated by opening the gate or the wiring in the gate itself is damaged/broken.
I'd remove the switch 1st and see if the fuse doesn't blow. IF it does by a new one on Ebay or @ the dealer.

otherwise, get a multi-meter and a wiring diagram for your Tahoe and trace the wiring from the switch.

GL,
Td

A short stoll?

To Replace a Tailgate: Tools needed for the replacement:- Star shaped sockets- Flathead Screwdriver- Long Nose Pliers- Shop Light- Dremel w/ disc cutter for plastics, Remove the 2 outer long star shaped screws: Close Tailgate and pull down and out the handle bezel. The bezel itself its being held by 2 plastic anchors. To remove the handle from the tailgate we need to open it. Pull the linkage from both sides inward and the tailgate should open. Remove the 3 large star shaped screws-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tacho Pro 2008

Sound like your tail gate switch has failed or maybe a fuse

I would take these actions :

1. Check fuses
2. Replace Tailgate switch
3. Take to Auto electrician as it could be a short in your wiring harness.

Hope this helps

Open the tailgate back panel, (it will be a tight squeeze) Your opening for the tailgate will be at the tailgate trim. You can probable goe through the speaker opening.

Open tailgate and there will be 2 screws that hold light housing remove and then turn the light socket out that you want to replace. Turn it 1/4 turn counterclockwise. Replace bulb and housing.

I found this URL on internet http://www.chefseattle.com/blog/site-news/suburban-rear-liftgate-wont-unlock-how-to-fix/ Maybe it will help you.

I don't know if this will work, but at least it is worth a try. Spray some WD40 liberally over and into both tailgate latches. Try to get up inside using the straw extension. Open and close multiple times to work it in. I suspect there is an internal latch switch, which controls the display, that might be dirty, corroded, or just not working. Of course other causes are possible. I hope it works.