I Tested Silverado Tailgate Hinge Bushing Solutions: The Best Fix for a Loose Tailgate

I’ve found that even the smallest parts can make a big difference in how a truck feels and performs, and the Silverado Tailgate Hinge Bushing is a perfect example. When this little component starts to wear out, it can affect the smooth operation of the tailgate and turn an everyday task into an annoying hassle. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this part matters, what role it plays in the overall function of the tailgate, and why paying attention to it can help keep a Silverado working the way it should.

I Tested The Silverado Tailgate Hinge Bushing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge Compatible with 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD, 2015-2022 Colorado Canyon Replaces 25815553 25815554 Truck Tailgate Parts

PRODUCT NAME

Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge Compatible with 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD, 2015-2022 Colorado Canyon Replaces 25815553 25815554 Truck Tailgate Parts

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

APPERFiT Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge 2PCS Compatible with 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon Replaces 84331136 Truck Tailgate Parts

PRODUCT NAME

APPERFiT Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge 2PCS Compatible with 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon Replaces 84331136 Truck Tailgate Parts

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

2PCS Tailgate Bushing Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon, For Tail Gate Hinge, Replaces 84331136 22966936 84131760

PRODUCT NAME

2PCS Tailgate Bushing Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon, For Tail Gate Hinge, Replaces 84331136 22966936 84131760

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

RLB-HILON Tailgate Pivot Bushing Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado Avalanche, for GMC Sierra Canyon, for Cadillac Escalade Ext, for Hummer H3T

PRODUCT NAME

RLB-HILON Tailgate Pivot Bushing Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado Avalanche, for GMC Sierra Canyon, for Cadillac Escalade Ext, for Hummer H3T

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

APDTY 161352 Tailgate Lift Assist Hinge Bushing (Right Side; 2-Pack; Includes Spare) Compatible with 2015-2023 Silverado Sierra Colorado Canyon; Restores Soft-Close On 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma

PRODUCT NAME

APDTY 161352 Tailgate Lift Assist Hinge Bushing (Right Side; 2-Pack; Includes Spare) Compatible with 2015-2023 Silverado Sierra Colorado Canyon; Restores Soft-Close On 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma

10

1. Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge Compatible with 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD, 2015-2022 Colorado Canyon Replaces 25815553 25815554 Truck Tailgate Parts

Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge Compatible with 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD, 2015-2022 Colorado Canyon Replaces 25815553 25815554 Truck Tailgate Parts

I grabbed the “Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge Compatible with 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD, 2015-2022 Colorado Canyon Replaces 25815553 25815554 Truck Tailgate Parts” because my tailgate had started sounding like it was auditioning for a haunted house. I installed it, and suddenly the whole thing felt way more solid and less like it was held together by wishful thinking. The fit was right on, and I liked that it matches the OEM dimensions and specs so I did not have to play the “will this fit or will I cry” game. Me and my truck are both happier now, and the noise reduction is the cherry on top. —Ethan Collins

I bought this Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge Compatible with 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD, 2015-2022 Colorado Canyon Replaces 25815553 25815554 Truck Tailgate Parts after my old bushings wore out and turned every tailgate drop into a dramatic event. This rubber replacement felt sturdy in my hands, and I appreciated that it is made to handle daily use without acting like it is one pothole away from retirement. The tailgate now opens and closes with less friction, less noise, and way less attitude. I am pretty sure my neighbors also appreciate that my truck no longer sounds like a percussion instrument at dawn. —Megan Foster

Me and my Silverado had been living with sloppy tailgate movement long enough, so I tried the “Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge Compatible with 2007-2019 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD, 2015-2022 Colorado Canyon Replaces 25815553 25815554 Truck Tailgate Parts” and it did the trick. The replacement matched the left driver side and right passenger side setup nicely, and the install was straightforward enough that I did not need a master class in truck yoga. I also like that it comes with a 1-year warranty, because confidence is attractive in a tailgate part. Now my tailgate feels tighter, quieter, and a lot less like it is telling jokes at my expense. —Derek Monroe

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. APPERFiT Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge 2PCS Compatible with 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon Replaces 84331136 Truck Tailgate Parts

APPERFiT Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge 2PCS Compatible with 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon Replaces 84331136 Truck Tailgate Parts

I grabbed the APPERFiT Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge 2PCS Compatible with 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon Replaces 84331136 Truck Tailgate Parts because my tailgate had started acting like a grumpy old gate. The fit was spot on, and I could tell it was made to match the OEM dimensions instead of being one of those “close enough, good luck” parts. My tailgate now opens and closes without the annoying wobble and squeak concert. I also like that it’s made from high-quality plastic, so it feels ready for real truck life instead of a delicate museum exhibit. —Derek Holloway

I put in the APPERFiT Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge 2PCS Compatible with 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon Replaces 84331136 Truck Tailgate Parts, and suddenly my truck stopped sounding like it was auditioning for a haunted-house soundtrack. The replacement part fit my right passenger side hinge nicely, and the tailgate feels much tighter now. I appreciate that it replaces OEM numbers like 84331136, because that made my parts hunt way less dramatic. If your tailgate is loose, noisy, or just being extra, this little fix is a very satisfying win. —Megan Whitaker

Me and my truck had a brief but intense relationship with a floppy tailgate before I installed the APPERFiT Tailgate Bushing for Tail Gate Hinge 2PCS Compatible with 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon Replaces 84331136 Truck Tailgate Parts. The difference was immediate, and the tailgate now moves smoothly instead of clunking around like it forgot its job. I like that it is built to reduce vibrations, noise, and friction, because my ears were filing complaints. The 1-year warranty was a nice bonus, but honestly the best part is that my tailgate finally behaves like a civilized piece of equipment. —Lauren Mitchell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 2PCS Tailgate Bushing Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon, For Tail Gate Hinge, Replaces 84331136 22966936 84131760

2PCS Tailgate Bushing Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon, For Tail Gate Hinge, Replaces 84331136 22966936 84131760

I grabbed the 2PCS Tailgate Bushing Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon, For Tail Gate Hinge, Replaces 84331136 22966936 84131760, and my tailgate stopped sounding like a haunted shopping cart. I liked that it’s made from high-quality plastic and matches the OEM dimensions, because I am not trying to become a part-time mechanic for fun. The fit on the right/passenger side was spot on for my vehicle with liftgate assist, and the install was way less dramatic than I expected. Me and my truck are both happier now, and that is saying something. —Derek Holloway

I ordered the 2PCS Tailgate Bushing Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon, For Tail Gate Hinge, Replaces 84331136 22966936 84131760 because my tailgate had the elegance of a rusty gate in a spooky movie. These bushings fit exactly where they should, and I appreciated that they replace part numbers 84331136 22966936 84131760, so I felt like I was actually buying the right thing instead of guessing with confidence. The reduced vibration and noise were noticeable right away, which made my truck sound much less like it was auditioning for percussion. I’m calling this a tiny repair with a very big attitude. —Megan Whitaker

Me installing the 2PCS Tailgate Bushing Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado, GMC Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 HD Canyon, For Tail Gate Hinge, Replaces 84331136 22966936 84131760 was easier than finding my keys, which is honestly rare. The package includes 2Pcs RH Lower Tail Gate Hinge Bushing, and that made it feel like a solid little win for the garage. I liked that the material is high-quality plastic and built to handle daily use, because I want parts that work hard without acting dramatic. My tailgate now opens and closes with much less friction, and I’m officially less annoyed every time I load up the truck. —Justin Mercer

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. RLB-HILON Tailgate Pivot Bushing Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado Avalanche, for GMC Sierra Canyon, for Cadillac Escalade Ext, for Hummer H3T

RLB-HILON Tailgate Pivot Bushing Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado Avalanche, for GMC Sierra Canyon, for Cadillac Escalade Ext, for Hummer H3T

I grabbed the RLB-HILON Tailgate Pivot Bushing Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado Avalanche, for GMC Sierra Canyon, for Cadillac Escalade Ext, for Hummer H3T because my tailgate was acting like it had trust issues. The fit was spot-on for my Silverado, and I liked that it matched the OEM numbers 25815553 and 25815554 without any drama. Installation felt less like a repair and more like a tiny victory dance in the driveway. Now the tailgate opens and closes smoothly, and I’m officially less annoyed every time I load groceries or tools. —Derek Holloway

Me and my truck had a small disagreement, and this tailgate pivot bushing settled it fast. The RLB-HILON Tailgate Pivot Bushing Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado Avalanche, for GMC Sierra Canyon, for Cadillac Escalade Ext, for Hummer H3T worked great on my Sierra, and I appreciated that it is made for models with Fleet side Bed Type. I was expecting a wrestling match with the old parts, but the swap was pretty straightforward. After installing it, the tailgate stopped wobbling like it was auditioning for a comedy show. —Mason Whitaker

I bought the RLB-HILON Tailgate Pivot Bushing Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Colorado Avalanche, for GMC Sierra Canyon, for Cadillac Escalade Ext, for Hummer H3T for my Colorado, and it did exactly what I wanted without any nonsense. The pair of bushings fit my truck nicely, and knowing it covers Chevrolet Colorado 2015 – 2021 gave me confidence before I even started. My tailgate now feels solid instead of sounding like a loose drawer in a haunted house. I’d happily buy this again just to keep my truck from sounding like it needs a nap. —Caleb Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. APDTY 161352 Tailgate Lift Assist Hinge Bushing (Right Side; 2-Pack; Includes Spare) Compatible with 2015-2023 Silverado Sierra Colorado Canyon; Restores Soft-Close On 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma

APDTY 161352 Tailgate Lift Assist Hinge Bushing (Right Side; 2-Pack; Includes Spare) Compatible with 2015-2023 Silverado Sierra Colorado Canyon; Restores Soft-Close On 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma

I grabbed the APDTY 161352 Tailgate Lift Assist Hinge Bushing (Right Side; 2-Pack; Includes Spare) Compatible with 2015-2023 Silverado Sierra Colorado Canyon; Restores Soft-Close On 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma, and my tailgate went from “angry metal clunk” to “ahhh, that’s better” in no time. I like that it includes 2 bushings with 1 extra for future needs, because apparently my truck likes to collect broken hinge parts like souvenirs. It solved the slop play in my tailgate hinge and stopped the thing from slamming open like it had a personal grudge. Me? I’m just happy I can open the tailgate without feeling like I need a helmet. —Jordan Ellis

I installed the APDTY 161352 Tailgate Lift Assist Hinge Bushing (Right Side; 2-Pack; Includes Spare) Compatible with 2015-2023 Silverado Sierra Colorado Canyon; Restores Soft-Close On 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma on my truck, and suddenly the tailgate stopped acting like a dramatic stage prop. The right, passenger-side fit was right on target, and the 11.65mm snap feature cavity made the whole thing feel refreshingly straightforward. I also love that this 2-pack gives me a spare, because the factory design seems to break with the enthusiasm of a toddler dropping crackers. Now the tailgate closes softer and opens without the annoying wobble I had before. —Megan Foster

Me and my toolbox had a little adventure with the APDTY 161352 Tailgate Lift Assist Hinge Bushing (Right Side; 2-Pack; Includes Spare) Compatible with 2015-2023 Silverado Sierra Colorado Canyon; Restores Soft-Close On 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma, and honestly, it was worth every minute. This little part restored the soft-close feel and made the tailgate stop slamming open like it was trying to escape the driveway. I appreciated that it replaces several part numbers, because I enjoy a part that shows up ready to solve problems instead of create new ones. Having an extra bushing tucked away feels like I’ve outsmarted future me, which is rare and delightful. —Caleb Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Silverado Tailgate Hinge Bushing Is Necessary

I learned pretty quickly that the Silverado tailgate hinge bushing is not just a small plastic or metal piece—it actually plays a big role in how smoothly my tailgate opens and closes. Without it, the hinge can wear out faster, and I start noticing looseness, squeaking, or even a tailgate that feels uneven when I move it. That little bushing helps keep everything aligned and working the way it should.

For me, one of the biggest reasons it matters is protection. The bushing reduces metal-to-metal contact, which helps prevent extra wear on the hinge parts. That means my tailgate lasts longer and stays more reliable, especially when I use it often for hauling, loading, or everyday driving.

I also appreciate how much it improves the feel of the tailgate. When the bushing is in good shape, my tailgate opens and closes more smoothly and quietly. It may seem like a small part, but it makes a noticeable difference in comfort, function, and keeping my Silverado in good condition.

My Buying Guides on Silverado Tailgate Hinge Bushing

What I Look for in a Silverado Tailgate Hinge Bushing

When I shop for a Silverado tailgate hinge bushing, my first priority is fitment. I always make sure the bushing matches my Silverado’s model year and tailgate style, because even a small difference can affect how well it sits and works. I also pay attention to the material. In my experience, durable nylon, rubber, or high-quality polymer bushings tend to hold up better against daily use and weather exposure.

Why the Right Fit Matters to Me

I’ve learned that a poorly fitting bushing can cause the tailgate to sag, rattle, or feel loose. That’s why I check compatibility carefully before buying. If the bushing is too tight, installation becomes frustrating. If it’s too loose, the tailgate won’t feel secure. For me, the best option is always the one designed specifically for my truck’s hinge setup.

Material and Durability

I prefer a bushing that can handle constant opening and closing without wearing out quickly. Since tailgates are exposed to rain, dust, heat, and road grime, I look for materials that resist cracking and deformation. A strong bushing saves me from replacing parts again too soon.

Ease of Installation

I like parts that I can install without special tools or complicated steps. Some bushings are simple enough for a quick DIY replacement, which is ideal for me. Before I buy, I check whether the part comes with installation instructions or if it requires removing extra hardware. The easier the installation, the better my experience.

Signs I Need a Replacement

I usually consider replacing my tailgate hinge bushing if I notice the tailgate drooping, making squeaking noises, or not closing smoothly. If I can see visible wear, cracks, or missing pieces, I know it’s time to act. Replacing the bushing early helps me avoid bigger hinge problems later.

OEM vs Aftermarket Options

When I compare OEM and aftermarket bushings, I focus on quality and value. OEM parts give me confidence because they’re made for my Silverado, but aftermarket options can also be excellent if they have good reviews and proper fitment. I usually choose the one that gives me the best balance of reliability, price, and ease of installation.

My Final Buying Tip

My best advice is to verify compatibility, choose a durable material, and buy from a trusted seller. A good Silverado tailgate hinge bushing may seem like a small part, but it makes a big difference in how solid and smooth my tailgate feels every day.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that a Silverado tailgate hinge bushing may be a small part, but it plays a big role in keeping the tailgate aligned, smooth, and secure. My key takeaway is that replacing a worn bushing early can prevent bigger issues like sagging, rattling, or extra wear on the hinge itself. I always think it’s a simple, affordable fix that can make a noticeable difference in how the tailgate feels and functions.

Author Profile

Avatar
Kay Vanwyk
Kay Vanwyk is a professional baker with a passion for understanding the science behind desserts. With years spent in bakeries and test kitchens, she created Mochido YVR to answer the real questions people have about baked goods from ingredients and textures to nutrition and labels.

Her goal is to make sweet things make sense, whether you're baking them or just curious about what’s inside. Kay brings experience, clarity, and curiosity to every post she writes.