Can Rear Hatch on Lexus 400h Open When Carpod Folding Cargo Carrier # M2205-01-02 is Installed

Published 08/13/2015

Products Featured in This Question

24x48-3/4 Carpod Walled, Folding Cargo Carrier - 2" Hitches - w/ Lid, Bag, Rise Shank - 450 lbs

(96)

$667.57

Yakima EXO Swing Away Enclosed Cargo Carrier - 2" Hitches - 10 cu ft - 100 lbs

(92)

$1347.90

Question:

When the Carpod and lid is folded up at the back of the vehicle attached to the hitch, can the trunk be opened in a Lexus RX400h? This way, I can have full access to the trunk and have the Carpod folded up and installed, ready to use if I need the extra space, instead of taking it off and leaving it in the garage until needed. How resistant is the Carpod to rusting? Can it be left on the vehicle all year round?

asked by: Vic

Expert Reply:

When the Carpod Walled Folding Cargo Carrier # M2205-01-02 is folded up in its vertical position you will not be able to open your rear hatch on your Lexus 400h. When the carrier is folded flat and in its horizontal position (as in the linked photo) you should be able to open the rear hatch with no problem. Just take a look at the photo and then measure the back of the 400h from its hitch pin hole rearward 13-inches and up 5-1/4-inches to see where the edge of the carrier will be relative to your hatch. Then open the hatch to confirm it will clear that point.

The Carpod is constructed of powder-coated steel which will provide some degree of resistance to the elements, but like anything else - including your 400h itself - keeping it clean and free of dirt and road salt is important too. The carrier weighs about 54-lbs, which may be a bit more than some of us care to handle on a regular basis. But if you store it inside during the worst of the winter weather you can still leave it on the car for most of the year. I do suggest periodically rinsing it off.

If you prefer an enclosed carrier that will allow full rear hatch access you might consider the Yakima EXO Swing Away Enclosed Cargo Carrier # Y62VR which can be swung away from the rear of the car even when loaded with up to 100-lbs of cargo. This lockable carrier is shown in the linked video.

expert reply by: Adam R