Troubleshooting Rear Lift Gate Not Opening On a 2023 Subaru Forester With Thule OutWay Bike Rack

Published 04/16/2024

Question:

Hi i have a 2023 Subaru Forester. I installed and used once no problems. When open automatic hatch 1 unable to open with bike on but not sure I should 2 with bike off and folded up, automatic hatch opened but automatically closed very dangerous and after trying to adjust now will not open. Im sure its a Subaru sensor thing. I will try to use some padding, but do you have any suggestions. Thanks

asked by: Kristina M

Expert Reply:

You should never try and open a rear liftgate on any vehicle when using using a trunk mounted bike rack like the Thule OutWay Platform Trunk Bike Rack # TH65JV. The weight is far to much for the electric actuator to attempt to lift. I would have the rear liftgate inspected by a Subaru dealer to determine if the extra weight may have damaged the actuator or one of the sensors. It also may be due to the extra weight of the carrier itself is tricking your Forester into thinking it is hitting something and needs to stop and close. If this is the case you may just need to provide a little extra help to the liftgate with your hand so that it can open fully when you need to get to the straps to remove the rack.

expert reply by: Bud M

Kristina

4/16/2024

Hi thank you, I was able to remove bike rack and lift gate working normally. My further question is should I be taking bike rack off when not transporting my bike? For instance with my previous hitch bike racks I have left the rack on for the season. I ask because I opened my hatch without any bikes on and it immediately closed, is that normal? Thanks

Bud M.

4/16/2024

@Kristina That is most likely due to the weight of the rack. The Thule Outway Platform is one of the heavier racks and likely is just enough to tell the electric actuator there is a problem. As that is likely the case you would want to remove the rack when not needed.

Kristina

4/16/2024

I guess I will take off each time. I wish I known that before I bought as is it was recommended for my vehicle. It does fold up so I was under the impression it could stay on. Etrailer should include that information when recommend for 2023 Subaru Forester.