Recommended Hitch for a 2019 Honda CR-V and How it Affects the Lift Gate Sensor

Updated 02/02/2026 | Published 01/28/2026

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(980)

$163.14

Question:

Vehicle is a 2019 CRV Touring. It has the hands-free power lift gate sensors and backup sensors. I want a trailer hitch with a concealed cross-tube. Whats the consensus on the effectiveness of the lift-gate sensors with the concealed cross-tube? Other q/as Ive read mention there is a sweet-spot where the sensor will still work. But that was with a visible cross-tube hitch. Does the Honda OEM Hands Free adapter 8U59-TLA-100A replace the original hands-free system? or is it an add-oninch extension to the original sensor to change the sensors location?

asked by: Brad

Expert Reply:

Hey Brad, welcome back! The consensus on the lift gate sensors for all hitches that fit your 2019 Honda CR-V is that the sensor will be blocked right around the 2" receiver. However, you won't want to kick in that area anyways after you install a hitch because it's going to hurt. You'll need to move to the left or right of the receiver to find a zone that isn't blocked.

The Honda OEM Hands Free adapter 8U59-TLA-100A doesn't replace the lift gate sensor it modifies it. It moves the sensor off-center to accommodate the hitch. This adapter would need to be sourced somewhere else as it's a OEM part and we do not carry it.

To add a hitch to your, 2019 Honda CR-V Touring, I recommend our etrailer item # e98848. This custom fit class III hitch has a 2" receiver and comes with all hardware necessary to complete the installation. I really like this hitch because of the way it installs. The main crosstube is hidden behind the bumper leaving only the 2" receiver visible. This not only looks better it helps with ground clearance.

What do you plan on using your new hitch for?

expert reply by: Jerred H

e98848
(click to enlarge)

Brad

1/31/2026

I need the hitch for occasional light/small trailer for furniture moves. And a 3 mile tow of fishing boat twice a year — to the lake in Spring, back to storage before winter. Thus, I will also need an electrical harness kit. Which do you recommend?

Jerred H.

2/2/2026

@Brad Right on! The etrailer Hitch item # e98848 will definitely work for those needs! To add a 4-way connector to your CR-V, you'll want the Curt T-Connector item # C56370. This harness plugs directly into a factory port in your rear cargo area on the driver's side near the rear tail lights. I linked an installation video below that'll show you exactly where to find it. If your boat trailer has a 5-way, you'll also need the Connector Adapter - 4-Way Flat to 5-Way Flat item # C57187.

Helpful Links

tv-install-trailer-wiring-2019-honda-cr-v-c56370.aspx