Troubleshooting Thule Bike Rack On 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon with Automatic Liftgate

Updated 06/08/2020 | Published 06/04/2020

Question:

I got a subaru outback wagon Thule trunk Bike Rack, but after installing it, the automatic rear door will not stay open. It closes immediately after it opens.

asked by: Alonso R

Expert Reply:

The issue you are experiencing is likely that the lift struts and motor aren't able to support the extra weight of the bike rack itself on the hatch. The motorized hatch is designed to retract when it experiences resistance like if it were to hit a garage door for instance when opening. In this case it is the safety feature that you are having issue with. You will have to use the manual lift function and may need to even support the hatch when opened.

expert reply by: Jason S