Will Aftermarket Hitch Receiver # 75758 Interfere with Hands-free Lift Gate Option

Updated 04/02/2015 | Published 04/01/2015

Products Featured in This Question

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

(729)

$230.77

Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(63)

$226.61

Question:

Will the hands free foot activated liftgate still work on a 2015 Ford Escape after installing an aftermarket hitch receiver?

asked by: Brandon

Helpful Expert Reply:

Some of the hitches that fit your 2015 Ford Escape with the Hands-free Lift Gate option will block one or more of the hands-free lift gate sensors but those at the side of vehicle near the exhaust pipes will still function as they do now. This just means that with one of these particular hitches installed if you are standing in a specific position at the rear of the vehicle, one or more of the sensors may not detect your presence but the others will.

You have the option to choose a 2-inch Class III hitch like the Draw-Tite # 75758 that you referenced or a 1-1/4-inch Class II type such as # 36529 from Draw-Tite. Please note this hitch will NOT interfere with any of your sensors. I have included a link to all of our hitches for your Escape and you can choose your vehicle style in the drop-down menu to see compatible hitch options. All other things being equal I suggest a 2-inch Class III hitch for its higher capacity and its broader compatibility with accessories like bike racks. Two helpful articles on hitch installation are linked for you.

Please feel free to let me know your intended application and I will be glad to recommend the other components you'll need.

expert reply by: Adam R