How do I know if my Explorer has hands-free liftgate?
If you own a Ford Explorer, you may be wondering whether your vehicle has a hands-free liftgate feature. This convenient feature allows you to open the rear hatch of your SUV without using your hands, making it easier to load and unload cargo, especially when your hands are full. Here's how you can determine if your Ford Explorer has a hands-free liftgate.
Identifying the Hands-Free Liftgate Feature
The hands-free liftgate feature on the Ford Explorer is typically indicated by a small sensor or button located near the rear hatch. To check if your Explorer has this feature, look for a small, rectangular sensor or a small button near the rear hatch, usually located just below the Ford logo or near the license plate.
If you see this sensor or button, your Ford Explorer is likely equipped with a hands-free liftgate. The sensor or button allows you to open the rear hatch by simply waving your foot or hand underneath the rear bumper, without the need to physically touch the vehicle.
How to Use the Hands-Free Liftgate
- Approach the rear of your Ford Explorer with your hands full and stand within a few feet of the rear bumper.
- Gently wave your foot or hand underneath the rear bumper, near the sensor or button.
- The rear hatch should automatically open, allowing you to load or unload your cargo with ease.
It's important to note that the hands-free liftgate feature may have a specific activation range or require a certain motion to work properly. Consult your Ford Explorer's owner's manual for detailed instructions on how to use the hands-free liftgate feature in your specific vehicle.
Benefits of the Hands-Free Liftgate
The hands-free liftgate feature on the Ford Explorer offers several benefits, including:
- Convenience: Being able to open the rear hatch without using your hands is especially helpful when your hands are full or when you're carrying heavy or bulky items.
- Accessibility: The hands-free liftgate can be particularly useful for individuals with mobility challenges or those who have difficulty reaching the rear hatch.
- Improved safety: By not having to set down your items or struggle to open the hatch, the hands-free feature can help reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.
Overall, the hands-free liftgate is a valuable feature that can make loading and unloading your Ford Explorer a more convenient and efficient experience.
Where is the hands-free liftgate sensor on a Ford Explorer?
If the hands-free power liftgate on your 2021 Explorer isn't responding, first inspect the foot-activated sensor located under the rear bumper. Dirt or damage can impair its function. Clean the sensor area thoroughly and check wiring connections for corrosion or looseness.
How to activate hands-free liftgate?
To activate the hands-free liftgate, approach the rear of the vehicle with your key fob on your person, then make a quick, fluid kicking motion (forward and back or side-to-side) under the center of the rear bumper, near the license plate. After a brief delay, the liftgate will open automatically.
This video shows how to use the hands-free liftgate on a Lincoln vehicle: 45sLincolnYouTube · Sep 19, 2024
Step-by-step activation
- Ensure key fob is present: Make sure the key fob is on your person and within the vehicle's sensing range, usually around 3 to 6 feet of the rear bumper.
- Locate the sensor: Stand directly behind the vehicle and locate the sensor area, which is typically a logo or an area just below the license plate.
- Perform the kick motion: Use a single, fluid motion to kick your foot forward and back under the bumper. The motion should be quick and not make contact with the bumper. Avoid sweeping your foot side-to-side, as this may not activate the sensor.
- Step back: Immediately step away from the vehicle to give the liftgate space to open automatically.
- Wait for the signal: You will see the hazard lights flash and/or hear a chime before the liftgate begins to open.
Tips for success
- Key fob proximity: The key fob must be close to the vehicle to activate the sensor.
- One key fob: Carry only one key fob to prevent confusion.
- Clean the sensor area: Ensure the sensor area is free of dirt or debris. If your vehicle has a trailer hitch, the sensor may be located to one side of it.
- Check settings: If the feature isn't working, you may need to enable it in your vehicle's settings menu.
- Closing the liftgate: You can often close the liftgate by repeating the same kicking motion.
What year to stay away from Ford Explorer?
You should generally stay away from 2002–2006 Ford Explorers due to widespread transmission failures and other issues like engine and suspension problems. Other years with significant problems include 2016, with a large recall involving faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, and 2020, which had many recalls and customer complaints.
2002–2006 models
- These models are widely considered the least reliable, with a major reputation for transmission failures that can be very expensive to fix.
- Owners also reported engine problems (like timing chain and head gasket issues), suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions.
Other years to approach with caution
- 2016: This year had a recall involving faulty suspension components and a fuel tank.
- 2020: This model year had a high number of recalls and complaints, including issues with the transmission, power loss, and a potential rollaway defect.
- 2008: This model year is also listed by some sources as a year to avoid due to low owner satisfaction scores and recalls.
Does my Ford Explorer have hands-free liftgate?
You can load up as many groceries as possible without having to make multiple trips. Hey Brian can you help me out just grab that. There you go.
