Will Installation of Hitch on 2024 Toyota RAV4 Interfere With Hands-Free Liftgate Sensor

Updated 11/17/2025 | Published 12/29/2024

Products Featured in This Question

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

(429)

$76.07

etrailer Ball Mount w/ Pre-Torqued 2" Ball - 2" Hitch - 2" Drop - 7,500 lbs

(373)

$43.91

Oris Trailer Hitch with Detachable Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"

(4)

$392.05

Question:

I have a 2024 Rav4 XSE Hyrbid vehicle. Im looking to install a Class III 2inch tow receiver on my vehicle. This vehicle comes with a foot activated liftgate. Will installing a tow hitch receiver get in the way of using this vehicle feature? Which two hitch receiver would be best for this vehicle?

asked by: Jeremy

Expert Reply:

Hi Jeremy; any hitch with a receiver hanging down will interfere with the sensor on your 2024 RAV4. However, in most cases it still works when you place your foot on either side of the receiver. If your main concern is retaining full sensor functionality then the best hitch is the Oris Hitches Detachable Hitch # TS66VR. This hitch has a removable receiver so it won't be in the way of the sensor when you aren't towing or carrying accessories like a bike rack.

If you don't mind having to place your foot in a more specific spot to trigger the sensor then I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e23ZR. I like our hitch more than others since it has the matte black powder coat finish. This gives it an OEM look and helps hide dirt and dings better than the glossy finish found on similar hitches.

If you plan on towing you will also need wiring and a ball mount. For the most reliable wiring I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118801. This will plug into the connection points in your rear cargo area and provide you with a 4-way to power your trailer's signal lights. For a ball mount you can use the etrailer Ball Mount w/ Pre-Torqued 2" Ball # e67DR.

expert reply by: Robin H

Robin H.

11/17/2025

Hey Jeremy, how did things go with the hitch on your RAV4 Hybrid? Did the foot-activated liftgate still work the way you wanted after choosing between the Oris detachable hitch and the etrailer hitch? Your update could make it easier for others with the same setup.