Do I Need to Disconnect My Handsfree Sensor to Install Hitch on My 2025 Subaru Forester?

Updated 03/13/2025 | Published 03/07/2025

Question:

2025 Subaru Forester Touring. The Subaru owners manual indicates that the Hands-Free Power Rear Gate is not available if a hitch is installed. Does it need to be disconnected or does the hitch just cover the sensor? If it makes a difference, I will only be using a bicycle rack with the hitch and have no need for a wiring harness.

asked by: Charlie B

Expert Reply:

Hello Charlie,

Congrats on the new 2025 Forester! Good news, you won’t need to disconnect the sensor. With any aftermarket hitch, there’s always a chance the hands-free sensor may be partially covered, or fully covered. Based on our experience installing the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # 76271 on the Subaru Forester, it does cover part of the sensor but not completely. Typically, you can still activate the hands-free tailgate by kicking your foot to the side of the hitch receiver, just need to find the sweet spot.

I attached an install video for you to check out to make the install as simple as possible.

What is your favorite new feature on the 2025 Forester? What kind of bike rack do you use to transport your bikes?

expert reply by: Kate F

Draw-Tite Hitch installed on 2024 Subaru Forester.
(click to enlarge)

Charlie B.

3/12/2025

Can I assume that your response also applies to the very similar Curt 13409? I'm using the Yakima OnRamp LX bike rack for 2 eBikes.

Kate F.

3/13/2025

@CharlieB Yes Charlie, same will go with the Curt # 13409, or we have our etrailer one in a matte black # e83ZR. The Yakima OnRamp is a very nice bike rack.