Recommended Hitch Receiver for 2015 Ford Escape to Allow Use of Lift-Gate Sensor

Published 08/14/2015

Products Featured in This Question

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

(236)

$248.95

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1361)

$11.88

Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-3/16" Span

(2948)

$4.57

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 1" Rise, 2-1/4" Drop - 7-5/8" Long - 7,500 lbs

(3886)

$26.80

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(45)

$84.35

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches - Flush - 2-5/8" Span - Chrome

(3660)

$23.55

Question:

Hi there, I know youve QandAs on blockage of lift gate sensor with other hitch models. My question is, have you guys done one with the Curt C13186 hitch? I like this hitch the best because it seems like it gets tucked up further than all of the other models. I have a 2015 Ford escape with the power liftgate, like to this hitch, want to know it was going to drastically affect that hands-free power options, as long as it is still functional I'm good with that. Also have you guys or any of your customer ever try to reposition the sensor down towards the ground so the aftermarket hitch has less of an effect on the feature? Thank you

asked by: Bob L

Expert Reply:

The Curt Class III hitch # C13186 as well as all others that fit your 2015 Ford Escape will block the central lift gate sensors, leaving active only the sensors to either side of vehicle near the exhaust pipes. No hitch for your Escape avoids this and we do not have a relocation kit for the sensors. At least one hitch maker is investigating this possibility but no products/kits are available yet. You'll still be able to operate the auto lift gate by triggering one of the side sensors.

To aid your hitch installation I've linked the written instructions, a video and a helpful article.

If you're towing you'll need a ball mount like # C45030, a pin and clip # C21500 and a hitch ball. For a 2-inch ball use # 63845 or for a 2-5/16-inch ball use # 63847. If you prefer to lock your ball mount then instead of the pin and clip set use part # e98880.

You will also need a wiring harness to operate your trailer's lights; you can use # C56328. This powered converter will fully protect your Escape's wiring since it draws the actual power for the trailer lights directly from the battery, NOT through the car's internal wiring. A video and helpful article for this installation are also included.