Will a Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2018 Honda Odyssey EX-L Interfere with the Hands Free Liftgate

Published 12/28/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(237)

$215.50

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(138)

$192.37

Question:

I am considering purchasing a Honda Odyssey 2018 EX-L with a hands-free liftgate sensor in the back. The dealership would like to charge around $1,000 to install a trailer hitchpart of this cost is due to them wanting to install a Hands-Free Sensor Hitch Adapter to make the sensors work better with a hitch in place. Would your hitches have a problem with the 2018 Odyssey hands-free sensor without the adapter? Do you know if the adapter is required for your hitches? Thanks!

asked by: Josh

Expert Reply:

All of the trailer hitch receivers to fit a 2018 Honda Odyssey may interfere with the handsfree liftgate. Usually, it only requires the user to place their foot to the side of the receiver opening for the sensors to work. I've attached a video of the Draw-Tite # 76170 that we installed and it's recommended to purchase parts from Honda so the sensors can be moved.

When we installed the Curt, part # C13370, the sensors were not tested. My guess is the van wasn't equipped with that feature since they were installed on the same van.

Of the available options, I recommend the Draw-Tite # 76170 because we know the handsfree feature can work with the additional parts. And those parts may not even be needed depending on where you place your foot. You could test after installing the hitch to determine if you need the additional parts from Honda.

I've linked the videos on all three hitches for you to take a look at as well.

expert reply by: Charles S