Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver for 2017 Ford Explorer with Hands Free Lift Gate Sensor

Published 06/24/2017

Products Featured in This Question

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

(815)

$171.30

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

(494)

$45.11

B&W Tow & Stow 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 5" Drop, 5-1/2" Rise - 7.5K - Black

(4618)

$269.00

Blue Ox Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches

(194)

$34.95

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

(130)

$172.57

Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-1/4" Span

(895)

$13.90

Question:

I have a 2017 Ford Explorer with the foot activated lift gate sensor. I am looking to purchase a trailer hitch possibly the Draw-Tite Class 3 Item #76034 or the Curt Class 3 Item #C13386. My question is, can either of these trailer hitches be installed without altering the functionality of the lift gate sensor? And if so, which one will work better with the lift gate sensor? Thank you for your time.

asked by: Matthew H

Expert Reply:

Both the Draw-Tite # 76034 and Curt # C13386 trailer hitch receivers that are designed for your 2017 Ford Explorer will allow the hands free lift gate sensor to work. However, you will need to activate it by putting your foot to the side of the hitch receiver opening with both hitches. The sensors will not recognize your foot through the hitch unfortunately.

I've linked videos of both hitches being installed for you.

If you're going to be towing a trailer with the Explorer and need a 4-way trailer connector as well use # 118540. It installs by plugging into a factory port under the rear of the vehicle on the passenger's side. I've linked this video as well.

You'll also need a ball mount and hitch ball. I've attached a link of our selection of ball mounts for a 2 inch hitch receiver as well as an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop you may need. Once you choose a ball mount you can then choose a hitch ball to fit it.

One way to make choosing a ball mount easier is to go with an adjustable ball mount like the B&W Tow & Stow # BWTS10038B. It features the ability to be flipped under the hitch when not using it and will provide up to 5-1/2 inches of rise or 5 inches of drop.

For a pin and clip to fit you can use # PC3 or if you'd like to have a locking pin you can use # BX8858.

I've also included links to some articles on towing that you might find helpful.