Does the Honda Passport have hands free liftgate?

Yes. In recent Honda Passport models, a hands-free power liftgate is available on higher trims, letting you open the tailgate with a foot gesture when you carry the key fob.

Explanation: The hands-free liftgate, often marketed as Hands-Free Power Tailgate or Hands-Free Access Tailgate, is not standard on every Passport. It is typically offered on upper trims (such as TrailSport and Elite) and can depend on the model year and market. If you’re shopping for a Passport, check your specific year and trim to confirm whether this feature is included.

Trims that offer hands-free power tailgate

Below are the Passport trims where this feature has commonly appeared in recent years. Availability can vary by year, region, and option packages.

• Passport TrailSport


• Passport Elite

In practice, this means base models may have a standard power tailgate but not the hands-free function, while the TrailSport and Elite variants are the ones most likely to include Hands-Free Access Tailgate as part of their equipment lineup.

How to use the hands-free tailgate

Before using the list, here are the typical steps and caveats you should know when operating this feature.

• Carry the key fob with you and approach the rear of the vehicle with the tailgate closed.


• With the system enabled, wave your foot under the center of the rear bumper to trigger the tailgate to open.


• Allow the tailgate to rise to its preset height, then access the cargo area.


• To close, you can press the button on the tailgate, use the remote, or manually close it.

Note: The feature relies on sensors, a functioning proximity key fob, and proper settings. If the battery is low or the system is disabled, the hands-free function may not work reliably.

How to verify the feature on your Passport

To confirm whether your specific Passport has Hands-Free Power Tailgate, use these checks.

• Consult the window sticker or the owner's manual for “Hands-Free Tailgate” or “Hands-Free Access Tailgate.”


• Look for a dedicated button or switch labeled for hands-free operation in the cargo area or on the trim’s control panel.


• Ask your Honda dealer to verify feature availability for your exact year, trim, and VIN, as configurations can differ by market.

Availability can vary by model year and region, so it’s wise to verify before you buy or rely on a used Passport’s features.

Summary

For buyers or renters of recent Honda Passports, the hands-free liftgate is generally found on higher trims like TrailSport and Elite, activated by a foot gesture near the rear bumper while carrying the key fob. Always confirm the exact features on your specific year and trim, as configurations can change between model years and regions.

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.

Does the Honda Passport have a power liftgate?

All Passport trims include a power tailgate. It can be operated remotely with the Smart Entry key from up to 50 feet or by pushing a button from the driver's seat or on the tailgate. An electric motor in the cargo area will raise and lower the tailgate.

What is the most common problem with the Honda Passport?

The most common problems with the Honda Passport include infotainment system malfunctions, such as the display going blank and speakers crackling, and issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, which can include delayed or harsh acceleration. Other frequent complaints involve body hardware issues like a rear hatch that won't open and occasional electrical problems with features like the fuel filler pipe or air bags.
 
Infotainment and electrical issues 

• Display screen and audio: The infotainment screen may go blank, and speakers can crackle or pop. 
• Fuel system: Some models have had issues with a faulty fuel filler pipe, leading to fuel leaks. 
• Body and interior: Common problems include a rear hatch button that breaks, a gas smell inside the vehicle, and fading or peeling paint. 

Transmission problems 

• 9-speed transmission: Some owners report delayed, harsh, or erratic shifting with the 9-speed transmission, particularly in models from 2019-2022. 
• Engine and related systems:
  • Varnish buildup: This can cause a ticking noise from the engine. 
  • Oil in spark plug tubes: This can lead to misfires. 
  • Timing belt: Newer models have a timing belt that requires replacement, which is an expensive but necessary maintenance item to prevent engine failure. 

Other potential problems

• Steering: Some 2023 models have been recalled for a risk of steering loss due to a loose ball joint. 
• Brakes: Some reports mention premature brake wear and issues with the ABS light coming on. 
• Vibration: Some owners have experienced vibration, particularly at highway speeds. 

Which is better, Honda Passport or Toyota RAV4?

The Honda Passport is a larger, more powerful SUV, while the Toyota RAV4 is a smaller, more fuel-efficient, and technologically advanced crossover. The Passport has a V6 engine and significantly more cargo and passenger space, making it better for towing and off-road use, whereas the RAV4 offers better gas mileage, a wider range of tech features (including hybrid options), and more advanced safety assists. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize performance and space (Passport) or fuel economy and tech (RAV4).
 
Honda Passport

• Performance: Equipped with a powerful standard V6 engine, the Passport is better for towing and has more robust off-road capability when paired with its available AWD system. 
• Space: Offers considerably more cargo and passenger space, with larger cargo volume both behind the rear seats and with the seats folded down. 
• Features: Comes with a standard cap-less fueling system. 

Toyota RAV4

• Performance: Features a smaller, more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, with hybrid options available that offer excellent gas mileage. 
• Space: Has less cargo and passenger space compared to the Passport. 
• Technology: Many trims feature a larger touchscreen with a more responsive infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and it offers advanced safety features like the Parking Support Brake and Downhill Assist Control. 
• Fuel Economy: The RAV4 (especially hybrid models) gets significantly better gas mileage than the Passport. 

Which one should you choose?

• Choose the Honda Passport if: You need more power for towing, greater off-road capability, and significantly more interior and cargo space for family, gear, or both. 
• Choose the Toyota RAV4 if: You want better fuel economy, a more modern and feature-rich tech package, and advanced safety assists, and don't need to tow heavy loads or require the extra space of the Passport.