Will The etrailer Hitch for the 2026 Jeep Compass Cause any Dash Lights to Come on
Updated 06/10/2026 | Published 05/27/2026
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Question:
2026 Jeep Compass Limited Im trying to get a hitch installed on my 2026 Jeep Compass Limited. The issue my dealership is running into is how to avoid the wiring and operation of the Foot Activated Open N Go Liftgate. Can part number e48AR be installed without compromising the foot activated open n go liftgate? Im fine with turning the feature off but wanted to make sure installing the hitch wont cause my dashboard to light up like a Christmas tree.
asked by: Elaine
Expert Reply:
Thanks for reaching out, Elaine.
The good news is that installing the etrailer Trailer Hitch # e48AR wont cause any warning lights, fault codes, or make your dashboard light up like a the New Years Eve Ball.
What typically happens with vehicles that have a foot-activated liftgate is that the hitch ends up occupying some of the space where the sensor normally detects your foot. In most cases, the feature still works, but you'll need to kick slightly to the left or right of the receiver instead of directly underneath the center of the bumper.
If you're planning on using the hitch for a bike rack and you have back-up sensors, the sensors will go off because of the bike rack.
What are you planning on carrying on the hitch?
(click to enlarge)
Lawrence V.
6/3/2026
Hello Elaine I installed my hitch about a year ago. I am retired and mechanical. I enjoyed doing the install. I have installed hitches on three other vehicles. Like you, I installed the hitch to carry bikes. I read the expert reply you received. The hitch people take into account features like the lift gate. Good luck with the bike carrier. Be sure to wear a helmet and also carry ID in case of emergency. Regards, Lawrence
Gwendolyn Y.
6/3/2026
John M.
6/3/2026
worked just as Gwendolyn said. I traded the compass in for 2025 Grand Cherokee because the compass only has a 13 gallon tank and I was tired of filling the tank every 3 days. John
Gwendolyn Y.
6/3/2026
Steven
6/10/2026
We installed this hitch on our Compass a few years ago. I did have to disable the foot option to open rear door. It didn't cause any problems just didn't work as I hade to remove sensor. Great kit easy to install. We used ours to attach cargo carrier to vehicle.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 600 lbs TW
- 4000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
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Elaine
6/2/2026
Gwendolyn, Thank you so much for calming my fears with this hitch install. I'm only looking to carry bikes (can turn off backup assist when bike rack is attached) and a cargo tray carrying only up to max 300 pounds. I never intend to hitch up a trailer. My only other question is I'm looking to have one of your etrailer installer partners install it. Do you and the shop communicate about how to properly install with that foot activated sensor? Or course I'll talk to the shop and explain my concerns and hope they will understand but just wanted to see what support etrailer gives to their installing partners. I really appreciate your time.