If you’ve looked at the feature list of modern mid-size or larger SUVs, you know that many premium trim packages include a power liftgate option. In almost every case, this upgrade is part of a package with other features like a sunroof, heated seats, leather upholstery and advanced collision-avoidance technologies. While these features are nice, the cost of moving to a higher trim-level vehicle can be significant. No fear; your local specialty mobile electronics retailer can upgrade many vehicles with the convenience of a motorized lift gate.
How Do Power Liftgates Work?
In a conventional SUV or CUV, you have to raise the liftgate manually. A pair of gas-filled struts aids in the process. Once up, those same struts should open the liftgate so you can load or unload cargo. In vehicles with motorized liftgates, one or both struts are replaced with a similarly sized assembly that includes a motor and a threaded rod. When power is sent to the motor, it turns a nut that pushes the rod out to raise the liftgate.
While seemingly simple, the system requires some intelligence. If you press a button on the dash or a key fob, the controller must release the latch and activate the motor until the tailgate is open. If the motor runs for too long, something could be damaged. When it’s time to close the tailgate, you’ll push another button, and the motor will reverse and pull the tailgate down. The latching system must be designed to detect when the gate is closing, then pull it shut the last half-inch or so to ensure that it’s secure.
Adding Power Liftgate Functionality to Your Vehicle
Many mobile electronics retailers have kits available to add the convenience of a power liftgate to your SUV. Kits exist for many Audi, Buick, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen vehicles. Kits exist that can also motorize the trunk of a sedan or hatchback.
The kits include a control module, motorized actuators, mounting brackets and wiring harnesses. Your installer will need to run wiring through the vehicle, mount the control, replace the brackets and actuators and calibrate the system.
Many solutions include options like a wireless key fob remote control. Your installer can likely integrate the motorized system into an aftermarket remote car starter or security system for additional convenience. Other kits include or have an option for a sensor that mounts under the vehicle. If the vehicle is unlocked, waving your foot under the rear bumper will open the tailgate automatically.
The kits often include a pushbutton that mounts in a blank location in the dash to make it easy to open the tailgate from the driver’s seat. A second button that mounts on the underside of the liftgate itself initiates the closing process.
Ask About What Happens if The Car Battery is Dead
All high-quality solutions can be operated manually if the vehicle battery is dead. It might take extra force, but you can still release the hatch or trunk and open it. Make sure the solution you consider has this option. If something malfunctions, you don’t want to be locked out of the cargo area.
You’ll want to make sure that the system has an object detection feature. In most cases, the control module monitors current to the actuator motors. It must stop the closing process if it detects an increase in current because the tailgate has run into something. Some systems will reverse the motor and re-open the tailgate.
Advantages of a Power Liftgate
Having a power liftgate is extremely convenient if you have your arms full of groceries or sports equipment and need to put them in the vehicle. You can hold the key fob in your hand and then open the liftgate without putting the items on the ground. If the tailgate automation system has a foot detection solution, then you can unlock the vehicle, load your arms with whatever goods you need to move, and activate the tailgate system once you’re behind the SUV.
Expert Installation Is Crucial
Whenever you want to add an accessory to your vehicle, choosing a mobile electronics retailer with the tools and training required to perform the task reliably is crucial. You don’t want a shop that takes shortcuts with wiring and connections or rushes when disassembling your vehicle. Spend whatever time it takes to find the most reputable and skilled technicians in your area to integrate a power liftgate solution into your car or SUV. In the long run, the improved functionality and reliability will be worth the additional small investment.
