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Does the Honda CR-V have an auto liftgate?

Yes, the Honda CR-V does come equipped with an automatic liftgate as a standard feature. The auto liftgate on the CR-V allows for hands-free opening and closing of the rear hatch, making it easier to load and unload cargo.


Automatic Liftgate on the Honda CR-V


The Honda CR-V's automatic liftgate is a convenient feature that is included on all trim levels of the popular SUV. The liftgate can be opened and closed with the push of a button, either on the key fob, the dashboard, or directly on the liftgate itself. This allows users to access the cargo area without having to manually lift or pull down the hatch, which can be especially helpful when your hands are full.


The automatic liftgate on the CR-V is powered by an electric motor, and it can be programmed to open to a customizable height to accommodate different garage door clearances or user preferences. Some models also include a hands-free feature, where the liftgate can be opened by simply waving your foot under the rear bumper.


Benefits of the Auto Liftgate



  • Convenience: The automatic liftgate makes it easy to load and unload cargo, especially when your hands are full.

  • Customizable height: The liftgate can be programmed to open to a specific height to avoid hitting low ceilings or obstructions.

  • Hands-free operation: Some models allow you to open the liftgate by simply waving your foot under the rear bumper.

  • Improved accessibility: The automatic liftgate can be especially helpful for those with mobility challenges or who have difficulty reaching a manual liftgate.


Overall, the automatic liftgate is a useful and popular feature on the Honda CR-V, providing added convenience and accessibility for drivers and passengers.

Does the Honda CR-V have an automatic tailgate?


Yes, many newer Honda CR-V models, specifically the EX-L, Touring, and TrailSport trims, come with a power tailgate and some also feature a hands-free access option. The automatic tailgate can be operated via a key fob, a button on the driver's dashboard or the tailgate itself, and on some higher trims, by a hands-free kicking motion under the rear bumper.
 
This video demonstrates three ways to open the tailgate on a 2024 Honda CR-V: 27sCambridge Centre HondaYouTube · Aug 9, 2023
Trims with power tailgate

  • EX-L: This trim includes a power tailgate that can be opened and closed with a key fob or a button on the driver's side of the dashboard. 
  • Touring: In addition to the standard power tailgate features, the Touring trim (and some other higher trims) often includes the hands-free access power tailgate. 
  • TrailSport: This trim also comes with a power tailgate. 

How to use the automatic tailgate
  • Key fob: Press the button on the remote transmitter to open or close the tailgate. 
  • Interior button: Use the button on the driver's side control panel. 
  • Tailgate button: Press the button located on the tailgate itself to close it. 
  • Hands-free (on equipped trims): Make a kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper to open and close the tailgate. This is a convenient option when your hands are full. 

Other features
  • Programmable height: You can set the tailgate to open to a specific height. 
  • Stop-and-hold function: The tailgate can be stopped mid-operation by pressing the switch again. 



Which year Honda CR-V to stay away from?


Years to avoid for the Honda CR-V include 2002-2003, 2007-2009, and 2017-2019, as they are associated with common issues like excessive oil consumption, air conditioning failures, and engine problems. Specifically, the 2017–2019 models had engine oil dilution and brake issues, while older years like 2002–2003 are known for oil consumption and AC problems. 
This video discusses the Honda CR-V's best and worst years and common problems: 57scar PROblemsYouTube · May 7, 2025
Model years to approach with caution

  • 2002–2003: Prone to high oil consumption and early air conditioning system failures. 
  • 2007–2009: Issues include problems with the air conditioning, excessive oil consumption, and paint problems. 
  • 2010–2011: Both years have been linked to excessive oil consumption. The 2011 model also had recalls related to unintended acceleration and steering issues. 
  • 2014–2015: These models experienced persistent engine vibrations, particularly at idle. 
  • 2017–2019: These years had multiple problems including engine oil dilution (from gasoline getting into the engine oil), potential brake issues, and general electrical problems with the AC and heating systems. 

Important considerations
  • Maintenance is key: A well-maintained CR-V from a "problematic" year can still be a good vehicle. Regular oil changes are critical for engine longevity. 
  • Vehicle inspection: Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a trusted mechanic to catch potential issues before buying. 
  • Rust and suspension: Older models can be susceptible to suspension issues, and rust can lead to more costly repairs. 



How do you activate hands-free tailgate?


First be sure you have the key fob within 3 ft of the liftgate. Then simply kick your leg. Forward. Then back in the area under the center of the rear bumper below the license plate.



Which CR-V has power liftgates?


The Honda CR-V has a power liftgate on the EX-L, TrailSport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid trims for 2026. For 2025 and 2024, the EX-L and higher trims like the Sport-L Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid generally include a power liftgate. The Sport Touring Hybrid also has a hands-free power tailgate feature.
 

  • For 2026: The EX-L, TrailSport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid trims are equipped with a power tailgate. 
  • For 2025: The Sport Touring Hybrid includes a hands-free power tailgate, while the EX-L and Sport-L Hybrid trims have a standard power liftgate. 
  • For 2024: The EX-L and Sport-L Hybrid trims come with a power liftgate. The Sport Touring Hybrid has a hands-free power liftgate. 
  • For 2023: The Sport Touring Hybrid trim features a hands-free power tailgate. 
  • For 2022: The EX-L and Touring models are equipped with a power tailgate. 
  • For 2021: The EX-L and Touring models include a power tailgate. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.