Decklid vs. Tailgate: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed & Hifza Nasir || Updated on March 6, 2024
Decklid refers to a car's rear cover, typically over the trunk, while a tailgate is the hinged gate at the back of a vehicle, especially on trucks and SUVs.
Key Differences
A decklid serves as the cover for the rear compartment or trunk of passenger vehicles, offering access to the storage area beneath. On the other hand, a tailgate is found at the rear of trucks, SUVs, and station wagons, hinging downwards or sideways to open, facilitating the loading and unloading of cargo.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
While decklids are commonly associated with sedans and coupes, providing a sleek and secure closure for the vehicle's trunk, tailgates are characteristic of more utilitarian vehicles. Tailgates offer practicality and versatility for transporting goods, reflecting their design focus on functionality.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
The operation of a decklid is typically straightforward, with a simple upward opening mechanism. Conversely, tailgates require more space to open due to their downward or sideways swinging motion, which is an essential consideration in tight parking spaces or when accessing the vehicle's cargo area.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
In terms of design, decklids often integrate seamlessly with a car's aesthetics, contributing to the vehicle's overall lines and silhouette. Tailgates, however, are designed for utility, with features like integrated steps, handles, and sometimes even workbench capabilities to enhance their functionality in various work or leisure scenarios.
Dua Fatima
Mar 06, 2024
Choosing between a vehicle with a decklid or a tailgate depends on the user's needs. Those prioritizing style and security might prefer a decklid, while individuals looking for practicality and cargo accessibility would find a tailgate more suitable. Each design serves distinct purposes, reflecting the vehicle's intended use and target audience.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Primary Function
Covers the trunk compartment of a vehicle
Provides access to the cargo area of trucks and SUVs
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Vehicle Type
Commonly found on sedans and coupes
Typical of trucks, SUVs, and station wagons
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Operation
Opens upward for access to the trunk
Swings downward or sideways for cargo access
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Design Focus
Enhances vehicle aesthetics and security
Focuses on practicality and versatility in cargo handling
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Considerations
Simplicity and security of cargo
Space needed for opening and utility features
Dua Fatima
Mar 06, 2024
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Decklid and Tailgate Definitions
Decklid
A cover over a car's trunk compartment.
The decklid automatically locked when I pressed the key fob.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Tailgate
Can swing downward or sideways.
His SUV's tailgate opened sideways, allowing easier access in tight spaces.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Decklid
Enhances a vehicle's rear aesthetics.
The sleek decklid contributed to the car's streamlined look.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Tailgate
Designed for utility and practicality.
The tailgate featured a built-in workbench for on-the-go tasks.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Decklid
Operates with an upward opening mechanism.
The decklid opened smoothly with just a press of a button.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
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Tailgate
May require space to open.
Parking too close to another vehicle prevented the tailgate from fully opening.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Decklid
Commonly features in passenger cars.
His sedan's decklid had an integrated spoiler for added style.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Tailgate
Essential for cargo access in trucks/SUVs.
The tailgate's step made it easy to climb into the truck bed.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Decklid
Provides secure storage space.
Her luggage was safely stored under the decklid.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Tailgate
A hinged gate at the back of a vehicle.
They lowered the tailgate to load the camping gear.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Decklid
An auto body panel that is the cover over the trunk (boot) of a motor vehicle.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Tailgate
A hinged part that extends across the rear of a pickup truck or other vehicle and can be folded down or to a horizontal position for loading and unloading.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Tailgate
To drive so closely behind (another vehicle) that a collision is likely if that vehicle brakes suddenly.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Tailgate
A hinged board or hatch at the rear of a vehicle that can be lowered for loading and unloading.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Tailgate
To drive dangerously close behind another vehicle.
That idiot has been tailgating me for the last five minutes.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Tailgate
To follow another person through access control on their access, rather than on one’s own credentials, especially when entering a door controlled by a card reader.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Tailgate
To privately purchase or sell a security immediately after trading in the same security for a client.
Front run
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Tailgate
Follow at a dangerously close distance;
It is dangerous to tailgate another vehicle
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is a decklid?
A decklid is the cover for the rear compartment or trunk of a car, typically found on sedans and coupes.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Can all cars have decklids?
While most passenger cars have decklids, they are not found on vehicles designed with open cargo spaces, like trucks.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
What is a tailgate?
A tailgate is the hinged gate at the back of trucks, SUVs, and some station wagons, designed for easy cargo access.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Do decklids contribute to a car's aesthetics?
Yes, decklids are designed to complement a car's overall appearance and aerodynamics.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
How do tailgates enhance functionality?
Tailgates offer practical features for cargo handling, including steps, handles, and sometimes work surfaces.
Dua Fatima
Mar 06, 2024
Are tailgates only found on trucks?
Primarily, yes, but tailgates are also common on SUVs and station wagons designed for utility and cargo transport.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
What considerations are important when choosing between a decklid and a tailgate?
Consider your primary use—whether you value style and trunk security or need practical cargo handling capabilities.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
What impacts do decklids and tailgates have on vehicle design?
Decklids influence a car's rear design and aerodynamics, while tailgates are designed for utility, affecting the vehicle's rear functionality.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Can decklids have integrated technology?
Many modern decklids include features like automatic opening and integrated spoilers for functionality and style.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Do decklids affect vehicle security?
Yes, they provide a secure enclosure for the trunk, protecting items stored within from theft or damage.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Are tailgates customizable?
Tailgates can come with various utility-focused add-ons, such as extenders and bed liners, for enhanced versatility.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Is it easier to load cargo with a tailgate?
Yes, tailgates provide a broad opening and easier access for loading and unloading bulky items.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
How do design priorities differ between decklids and tailgates?
Decklids prioritize aesthetics and security, while tailgates focus on utility and cargo accessibility.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Can tailgates be operated electronically?
Yes, some modern vehicles offer electronic tailgate operation for convenience.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Why might someone prefer a vehicle with a tailgate?
For those who frequently transport large items or need easy cargo access, a tailgate's functionality would be preferable.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Co-written by
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Dua Fatima
Shumaila Saeed
