Will The Curt Hitch Interfere With My Hands Free Liftgate On My 2025 Forester?

Updated 11/04/2025 | Published 09/29/2025

Question:

I have a 2025 Forester Hybrid with the foot sensor for the tailgate lift. Does the Curt C47HR prevent this feature from working since it requires cutting out the middle of the bumper where I believe the sensor is located? Thanks.

asked by: Norman L

Expert Reply:

Hey Norman,

Although Curt doesn't specifically say for your vehicle that it interferes or not, there is a chance it does. Any hitch like the # C47HR is installed where the sensor sits on the vehicle. I have seen cases where there has been no interference, and some cases where they just need to move their foot to the right or the left of the hitch. So essentially it is hard to know for sure. I would say since the hitch sits right below the sensor you are going to have limited functionality of the lift gate sensor.

What are you looking to use this hitch for?

expert reply by: Nick S

Nick S.

10/30/2025

Hey Norman, how did things turn out with the Curt hitch on your Forester Hybrid’s liftgate sensor? Did you notice any change in how the foot sensor works after the install? Your feedback could really help others with the same setup.

Norman L.

10/30/2025

@NickS Hi Nick, Yes, I installed the Curt 13409 hitch, to be used primarily for a bike rack. It worked out great in that the liftgate sensor still works! You have to put your foot right next to the hitch, but it still works with your foot on either side of the hitch. The only downside is that when the bikes are loaded, the backup sensors get triggered as they think you are backing into something. Too many electronics on cars these days.

Nick S.

11/4/2025

@NormanL I agree with you on that. First thing I did in my new car was disable most! I am glad you are still able to get that kick sensor to work even with the hitch installed, that's huge. How often are you able to get the bikes out?