What is the difference between a power tailgate and a liftgate?
As vehicles become more advanced, features like power tailgates and liftgates are becoming increasingly common. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct functionalities that can make a big difference in convenience and usability. At Kevin's Autos, we aim to help you understand your vehicle better, so let’s dive into the key differences between these two features.
What is a Liftgate?
A liftgate is a standard feature found on many SUVs, crossovers, and hatchbacks. It refers to the rear door of the vehicle that opens upward to provide access to the cargo area. Liftgates are typically operated manually, requiring the user to physically lift and close the door. Here are some key characteristics of a liftgate:
- Operated manually by pulling a handle or latch.
- Commonly found on vehicles without advanced automation features.
- Simple and reliable, with fewer components that could require maintenance.
Liftgates are a practical and cost-effective solution for accessing the rear of your vehicle, but they lack the convenience of automation.
What is a Power Tailgate?
A power tailgate, on the other hand, is an upgraded version of the traditional liftgate. It uses an electric motor to open and close the rear door automatically, often with the push of a button. This feature is especially useful when your hands are full or when you want to avoid the effort of manually lifting the door. Here are the main features of a power tailgate:
- Operated via a button on the key fob, dashboard, or directly on the tailgate.
- Some models include hands-free operation, allowing you to open the tailgate by waving your foot under a sensor.
- Equipped with safety sensors to prevent the door from closing on objects or people.
- Often found on higher-end vehicles or as an optional upgrade.
Power tailgates add a layer of convenience and luxury to your vehicle, making them a popular choice for families and individuals who frequently use their cargo space.
Key Differences Between a Power Tailgate and a Liftgate
To summarize, here are the main differences between the two:
- Operation: Liftgates are manual, while power tailgates are automated.
- Convenience: Power tailgates offer hands-free or button-operated functionality, whereas liftgates require physical effort.
- Cost: Power tailgates are generally more expensive due to the added technology and components.
- Safety Features: Power tailgates often include sensors to prevent accidents, which are not present in manual liftgates.
Choosing between a liftgate and a power tailgate depends on your budget, lifestyle, and how often you use your vehicle’s cargo area. If convenience and ease of use are priorities, a power tailgate is worth considering. However, if you prefer simplicity and lower maintenance costs, a traditional liftgate might be the better option.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between a power tailgate and a liftgate can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a vehicle or upgrading your current one. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to assist with all your car maintenance and repair needs, ensuring your vehicle is equipped to meet your lifestyle. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a liftgate and a tail lift?
A tail lift (term used in the UK, also called a "liftgate" in North America) is a mechanical device permanently installed on the rear of a work truck, van, or lorry, and is designed to facilitate the handling of goods from ground level or a loading dock to the level of the vehicle bed, or vice versa.
What SUVs have hands-free liftgates?
Top Sports Utility Vehicles with a Hands-free Power Liftgate
- Toyota. Sienna, Highlander, and Venza are the three 2021 Toyota models with hands-free rear power liftgate features at higher trim levels.
- Mazda. The 2021 Mazda CX-9 has a hands-free power liftgate at higher trims.
- Mercedes-Benz.
- Kia.
- Subaru.
- Chevrolet.
- Honda.
What are the three types of tail lifts?
Tailgates are platforms added to trucks that help to lift a load on and off a truck. There are three main types of tailgate lifts: cantilevers, tuck-aways and sliders. All three types are designed to take certain weights based on truck size and individual lifting requirements.
Which Toyota models have a power liftgate?
With just a simple push of a button, the liftgate is able to open and close automatically, ensuring that you can put away your groceries, gear, or more, with ease. When you get behind the wheel of a new Highlander, RAV4, Sequoia, or Sienna, you'll enjoy utilizing this enhancement to your advantage.
What Toyota SUV has the least problems?
Most Reliable Toyota SUVs
- Toyota RAV4. The Toyota RAV4 is the highest rated Toyota SUV for reliability according to RepairPal, a website that specializes in vehicle reliability facts.
- Toyota 4Runner.
- Toyota Venza.
- Find the Most Reliable SUV for You in Mt.
What is the difference between power liftgate and power tailgate?
A power liftgate is a convenient amenity available on many modern vehicles. Sometimes called a power tailgate, this feature offers users remote – even hands-free – control of their tailgate or rear hatch, allowing them to access the cargo area with just the touch of a button or by engaging a sensor.
Is a power liftgate worth it?
Accessibility: Power liftgates are beneficial to those who are shorter or have a disability, making loading and unloading cargo that much easier. Technology: Height adjustability, hands-free opening, and obstruction detection are a few features that are often included.
Is it OK to manually close a power liftgate?
The only drawbacks are that they are a more expensive option than a manual liftgate and are more expensive to fix if something breaks. For that reason, a lot of people ask, "Can I manually open and close my power liftgate?" The simple answer is yes.
Are liftgate and tailgate the same thing?
The Difference Between A Liftgate And A Tailgate
You lift a liftgate upwards, while you lower a tailgate. A tailgate is lowered for loading or unloading. Tailgates are found on pickup trucks and on a few SUV's. Liftgates are very common on SUVs, crossovers, and hatchback sedans.
How much does a power liftgate cost?
Almost all vehicles with rear doors or cargo areas that move like a hinge can have an aftermarket power liftgate installed. However, if you are looking into buying a brand new vehicle with a power liftgate system, it can cost between $2,000 to $9,000.
