Will an Aftermarket Hitch Get in the Way of My Hands Free Tailgate Sensor on 2025 Toyota Rav4?

Updated 07/07/2025 | Published 06/29/2025

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(59)

$199.47

No-Drill Mount for Electrical Mounting Bracket - Short

(1182)

$24.05

Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(832)

$5.94

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(191)

$202.05

etrailer Ball Mount w/ Pre-Torqued 2" Ball - 2" Hitch - 2-3/4" Rise - 7,500 lbs

(389)

$42.29

Question:

We just purchased a 2025 rav4 hybrid non-plug in. It has the hands free lift gate, will this be a problem with installation diy

asked by: Hal

Expert Reply:

Hello Hal,

Congrats on the new ride! What is your favorite new feature?

With any aftermarket hitch there is the possibility that the hands free tailgate sensor will be covered. So if you install B&W Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # BW47BR on your 2025 Toyota RAV4 it is possible to lose full capabilities of your hands free tailgate, in our experience you can usually maneuver your foot to the right or the left of the receiver to have the sensor work. It would be nice if they could stop putting the sensor right in the middle.

Also, it looks like we would not be able to get you the B&W until August, we do have the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C77MJ in stock and ready to ship. I attached a video where my buddy Brad will show you how to install it.

If you are looking to do some light towing and need some wiring with a 4 flat, the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118801 is a great fit! Don't forget a # C42CR and a # 18140 for a clean looking install.

Need a ball mount? Check out our etrailer Ball Mount w/ Pre-Torqued 2" Ball - 2" Hitch - 2-3/4" Rise - 7,500 lbs # e38NR. I really like how our ball comes in a black nickel plating, gives it a nice sleek look.

What are you planning to use the hitch for?