Is the 2019 Honda CR-V Hands Free Tailgate Sensor Relocation Kit from Honda Required with Hitch?

Published 01/24/2019

Question:

I have seen conflicting information on the ability to continue to use hands free tailgate with the drawtite hitch. I do not want to have to move sensor as would be needed with curt or etrailer hitch. I would elect to not have a hitch if I knee hands free could not work with the draw tite hitch. Any further information one way or another?

asked by: Otis

Expert Reply:

For your 2019 Honda CR-V, when you install a trailer hitch like the Draw-Tite # 76128 you may have issues with the function of the hands free lift gate due to the sensor locations. We have had customers that have had very little issues with the function once they found a specific location where the sensor still worked and chose not to use the relocation harness for 2017-2019 models #08U59-TLA-100A from Honda.

If you determine that you want to do that relocation for full function, then you will need to remove the bumper shell and follow the instructions I'll email you separately. Unfortunately we do not yet have any videos of the installation of that kit.

expert reply by: Jason S

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Otis

1/24/2019

Jason S.

1/24/2019

We have had customers that have had no issues with the hands free function still working, but it will be restricted to certain areas without adding the relocation kit. If it were me, I'd install the hitch and then test where it works so you will know where it will work every single time so you don't get caught with an armload of stuff kicking all over the place in a panic. I haven't had anyone say there was no spot where that hands free function worked. Most people did not opt for the relocation system cost for slightly more convenience. I think you'll be happy with the Draw-Tite hitch.