What is a Honda Power Tailgate?
The Honda Power Tailgate is a motorized liftgate that opens and closes automatically, often with hands-free access. It is designed to make loading and unloading cargo easier, especially when your hands are full.
Understanding the feature and how it works
The Honda Power Tailgate combines an electric lift mechanism with sensors and versatile control points to give you convenient access to the cargo area. It typically works with a switch on the tailgate, a button inside the vehicle, a key fob, and (on models with hands-free access) a sensor under the rear bumper. Below are the core capabilities you’ll commonly encounter.
Key capabilities you’ll typically find in Honda power tailgates:
- Hands-free opening and closing using a bumper sensor when you carry the smart key or fob (hands-free access).
- Programmable opening height to fit garages or low-clearance spaces.
- Remote operation from the key fob or, on equipped models, a connected smartphone app.
- Buttons and controls on the tailgate itself and inside the cargo area for opening/closing.
- Automatic close with a delay as you walk away, plus safety sensors to detect obstacles so the tailgate stops if something is in the way.
These capabilities are designed to enhance convenience, especially when your hands are full or you’re maneuvering bulky items. Availability depends on model year and trim, so consult the specific product sheet for your vehicle.
Where it appears on Honda models and how to use it
Power tailgates are more commonly offered on mid-to-high trims of several Honda SUVs and minivans in recent years. Availability varies by year, model and region, so check the current spec sheet or ask a dealer for precise details. Note that on some models, the feature is bundled with other packages (such as technology or premium equipment) and may not be available on base trims.
Usage and setup typically involve a few standard steps, though the exact procedure can vary by model:
- Open and close: use the tailgate button, the key fob, or the interior switch; many models also support hands-free open via the bumper sensor when the key fob is detected.
- Height adjustment: if your vehicle supports programmable height, set it to the desired limit and save it in memory so the tailgate opens to that level automatically.
- Troubleshooting: ensure the battery in the key fob is healthy, the vehicle is in a ready state, and the tailgate sensors are unobstructed; consult the owner’s manual if issues persist.
For exact steps, trims, and model-year specifics, refer to the owner’s manual or your Honda dealer.
Model availability guidance
As a general guide, Honda has offered Power Tailgate on several family-oriented models in recent generations, particularly on mid-to-high trims of SUVs and minivans. Exact availability varies by year and trim, so verify with official specifications for the relevant model year.
Quick references on where to look
Potential candidates to review include recent iterations of popular Honda SUVs and vans. Since packaging changes across model years, consult the current Honda website or a local dealer for precise availability on the exact vehicle you’re considering.
In many cases, consumers can expect hands-free access, a programmable opening height, and remote or app-based control on equipped models. If you’re shopping for a vehicle with this feature, confirm it’s included on the specific trim and year you choose.
Summary
The Honda Power Tailgate is a motorized, sensor-enabled tailgate that opens and closes automatically, often with hands-free access and an adjustable opening height. It enhances cargo loading and convenience, with controls on the tailgate, inside the vehicle, and via the key fob or app on supported models. Availability depends on model and trim year, so verify the exact features for your chosen vehicle.
