Will Trailer Hitch On 2018 Volvo XC60 Block Hands Free Lift Gate Sensor?
Updated 10/30/2025 | Published 10/05/2025
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Question:
I am looking for a trailer hitch for a 2018 Volvo XC60 T6 with the hands free lift gate option. This hitch notes that it *may* interfere with this option, but none of the other hitches listed for my model year and vehicle note interface with the hands free sensor to be a known issue. In another question related to this hitch model, it is suggested to install Curt model C92WR which was verified to not interfere with the hands free lift gate sensor. Unfortunately it appears that model is compatible only with newer model years and not 2018. Is there enough information on real-world installations to know if the hands free lift gate operation of early model year XC60s is impacted by this hitch given the notes only imply that it *may* interfere? If its confirmed this model consistently interferes with the hands free sensor, are there other models known to not interfere specifically for 2018 XC60 models T6 variant - non-hybrid and non-plugin? Thanks!
asked by: Mark P
Expert Reply:
Hello Mark, thanks for reaching out. No matter what hitch you install on your 2018 Volvo XC60, they all have potential to interfere with the sensor. In most cases the area right under the receiver will be blocked, but you can still get the sensor to activate by waiving your foot on either side of the receiver. The placement and angle of these sensors is not as consistent as you would think, which is why we can't give you a firm yes or no answer. Most of the time, the sensor will still function, it will just work a bit differently.
That said, if you use the hands free liftgate sensor frequently, and want to keep the full functionality, your best option for a hitch is going to be the Stealth Hitches Hidden Rack Receiver # SH87FR. This has a removable receiver. You can take it off when you are done hauling and you will have full functionality of the sensor. Just keep in mind this hitch comes with the rack receiver only. If you intend to tow a trailer you will need the Towing Kit # SH36FR as well.
What will you be using the hitch for? Do you use the lift gate sensor a lot?
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Jesse M.
10/30/2025
Hey Mark, how did things go with the Stealth Hitches Hidden Rack Receiver on your XC60? Did the hands free lift gate still work the way you wanted once you tried it out? Your update could make it easier for others with the same setup.