Plastic rear tailgate handle broke off under normal wear and tear circumstances when attempting to open. Apparent design defect whereby heavy weight of rear vertical tailgate door places stress on two plastic connectors. No practical way to open door from inside or out. Part also houses rear license plate lights and electronic opening latch control which becomes inoperable. Dozens of similar experiences posted on edmonds.com. Dealer refused to fix out of warranty period. After complaint to Toyota, they agreed to reimburse for part cost only as one time concession.

- Brewster, NY, USA