How to remove toyota 200 series wagon tailgate?

SOURCE: 2000 Toyota Sienna tailgate door will not open/broken handle

I hope I can help, I had the same problem on my 2001. I called the dealership and they said 375.00 + parts to fix. Being mechanically inclined I decidet to try it myself. Please understand, this is not exact, but is a pretty good guide. To open from the outside, make sure doors are unlocked(mine relocked after a minute or so) place a screwdriver, long and thin, into the slot that the handle passes through the door on the right side. Raise the handle of the driver, and you should be pressing down on a cable that operates the latch. the door should release. If you cant do that, from the inside, remove the two side trim pieces. Then remove the inner door panel, One screw under plastic cap on handle, one under cap on strap... and pop off all plastic buttons(hidden) between the door and cover, a 1" putty knife will work for this. You will see the cable that used to connect to the handle. Remove the cable by pulling it through the slot(apparent when you get to it) and now remove the two screws that hold the handle on. Also, you have to remove a screw from the passengers side of the cover plate over the handle. the plate will slide(not sure which way now), and it will come off. replace the handle and etc..... inreverse.. Took me 25 minutes, start to finish. Further questions, let me know. remember, mine was 2001 Sienna.

SOURCE: tailgate latch broken

You can pull the panle off with your hand from the inside of your van but becareful because those clip that holds the panel are very easy to break, once off you ll see where the latch located there is an opening for you to open. Hope this help and good luck.

SOURCE: 05 tacoma tailgate latch stuck

I had the same problem. I figure that dirt/rust may have accumulated inside the latching mechanism. I was able to fix it using the following steps.
1 - Remove the plastic cap that covers the top of the gate.
2 - Remove as many of the remaining torx bolts from the inside cover (you will need to do this to get inside the gate).
3 - Next, try and get some WD40 on/in the latch mechanism.
4 - Using a large screwdriver, you will need to pry the lever attached to the cable in order to release the latch.

Not a pretty process but it seemed to work. I give the latches a good lubrication frequently now, until I get around to replacing them.

SOURCE: my 08 toyota tacoma tailgate latch is jammed and

Some gravel has gone down the latch holes on each side. Take the tailgate out and place it on something that won't scratch it like an old blanket. Turn it upside down each way and gently tape on it with your hand to dislodge the gravel while operating the latch.

SOURCE: How do you get the tailgate latch of a 2006 Toyota

you need to remove the back door interior panel and open the door by the latch itself