
Hands free liftgate convenience and operation is a game-changer for anyone who's ever struggled with heavy packages or groceries.
The hands free liftgate allows you to lift and lower the gate with the touch of a button, eliminating the need to physically lift the gate with your hands. This is especially helpful for people with mobility or strength issues.
Studies have shown that hands free liftgate operation can reduce the risk of injury by up to 50% compared to traditional liftgate operation.
A fresh viewpoint: Hands Free Power Liftgate
Liftgate Definition
A hands-free liftgate is a type of liftgate or rear hatch that can open and close automatically.
It's as simple as a swipe of the foot to operate, making it a convenient feature for users.
This hands-free operation allows users to free up their hands to carry more items, making trips to the store and back much easier.
A hands-free liftgate requires just a simple gesture to open or close, which is a major time-saver.
Explore further: Hands-free Power Liftgate Market
The Convenience of

Imagine you're headed to your vehicle with two huge grocery bags occupying your arms, and it starts to rain. You'd probably end up soaking wet while fumbling to get the grocery bags in the trunk or cargo area.
A hands-free power liftgate can save you from this ordeal. All you need to do is stand behind the vehicle and/or wave your foot under the rear bumper.
This feature is especially helpful in situations where hands are full, like carrying groceries, luggage, or other items. You can set the liftgate to only open to a certain height, which is useful if you have a limited amount of space.
Some vehicle models' hands-free power liftgate can even detect when the key fob is within close proximity and automatically opens within seconds. This is a game-changer for people with mobility challenges or those who want a hassle-free experience.
The hands-free liftgate is adjustable, allowing you to set it to MAX, which opens the liftgate to its maximum height, or to 75 percent of its maximum height. This flexibility makes it a must-have feature for many drivers.
Operating and Troubleshooting

The hands-free liftgate is a convenient feature, but like any technology, it's not immune to issues. Ensure the key fob battery is charged and within range if your liftgate isn't responding.
If your liftgate is opening unexpectedly, check for debris on the sensors that could be causing false activations. It's a simple fix, but it can make all the difference.
To ensure consistent operation, try adjusting your foot motion or position relative to the bumper. This can help the liftgate sense your presence more accurately.
If you're still experiencing issues, make sure the liftgate is completely closed to avoid the warning light from coming on. This is a common mistake that's easy to fix.
Operating
To operate a hands-free power liftgate, you'll want to have your key fob with you at all times. This is a crucial step, as the system relies on the key fob to function.
The sensor is usually located at the center of the rear bumper, so make sure to stand behind the vehicle and face the liftgate. A sweeping motion or holding your foot under the bumper won't activate the sensor, so aim for a swift, single kick.

You should also test the speed of the liftgate to ensure it's moving at a decent pace. This will help prevent you from accidentally pushing or pulling the liftgate while it's in motion, which can damage the mechanical components.
To avoid any potential issues, be aware that any movement or physical action similar to a kicking motion can activate the liftgate. This includes vacuum hoses, trailer cairns, or splashing water, so it's best to switch the power liftgate off or move the key fob away from the rear bumper sensor in these situations.
Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The hands-free liftgate is designed for reliability, but occasional issues may arise.
If your liftgate isn't responding, first check that the key fob battery is charged and within range.
Unexpected openings could be caused by debris on the sensors, so make sure to clean them regularly.
Inconsistent operation might be resolved by adjusting your foot motion or position relative to the bumper.
A liftgate warning light indicates that the liftgate isn't completely closed, so make sure to close it properly.
If you're still experiencing issues, consult the owner's manual or contact Jim Burke Lincoln for assistance. Their team is ready to help you maximize your Lincoln's features.
Cars and Models

The hands-free liftgate is a convenient feature that many car models offer. It allows you to lift the gate without having to use your hands, which is especially useful when your hands are full of groceries or other items.
Some popular car models that feature hands-free liftgates include the Ford Explorer, the Honda Pilot, and the Toyota Highlander. These models are known for their spacious interiors and advanced technology features.
Liftgates are typically activated by a sensor that detects the presence of an object behind the vehicle, such as a child or a pet. This sensor triggers the liftgate to open, making it easy to load and unload cargo without having to physically interact with the gate.
What is a Liftgate?
A liftgate is a feature that allows the rear hatch of a vehicle to open and close automatically. It's a convenient feature that can make loading and unloading cargo a lot easier.

Some liftgates, known as hands-free liftgates, can be operated with a simple gesture, such as a swipe of the foot. This hands-free operation can help free up users to carry more items.
A hands-free liftgate requires just a simple gesture to open or close, making it easy to manage multiple items at once. This can be especially helpful when making trips to the store and back.
Cars with Rear Doors
If you're looking for cars with rear doors, you've got a few options. Hands-free liftgates have been a staple in some vehicles for over 70 years, and they're now more functional than ever.
The GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Equinox, and Jeep Grand Cherokee all feature hands-free liftgates. This feature allows you to power-open or close the trunk with a gentle kick under the vehicle's rear bumper.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 SUV also comes with a hands-free power liftgate as a standard feature. This offers comfort and convenience for drivers.
Lincoln offers the hands-free liftgate across its SUV lineup, but it's often included in higher trim levels or is available with convenience packages.
Chevrolet

The Chevrolet Equinox has some impressive features. The 2022 Equinox comes standard with a hands-free power liftgate, which is a game-changer for grocery shopping or loading up gear.
One of the really useful features of the Equinox is its memory height function, which allows you to program how high the gate opens. This way, you can set it to your preferred height and it will remember it for next time.
The Equinox's hands-free power liftgate is a huge convenience, especially when your hands are full.
Honda
The Honda CR-V is a popular choice for many car buyers. It's available in various trims, including the 2021 Honda CR-V Continuously Variable Hybrid Touring.
This trim is notable for its hands-free power liftgate, which is a convenient feature for many drivers. The programmable height function is also a nice touch, allowing you to customize the gate's operation to your liking.
Aftermarket
Many vehicle models have aftermarket hands-free power liftgate systems that can be retrofitted with kits from various companies.
Some of these kits can be self-installed, making it a great option for DIY enthusiasts.
The convenience of having a hands-free power liftgate is definitely attractive to vehicle owners of every age, and it's a feature that's definitely worth considering.
Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your hands-free liftgate operates seamlessly.
Keep the sensors beneath the rear bumper clean by wiping them with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Using mild soap and water for cleaning is recommended, as harsh chemicals can damage the sensors or the vehicle's finish.
Avoid applying sudden or excessive force while the liftgate is in motion, as this can damage its components.
Proper parking arrangement is essential to prevent potential issues; ensure ample space behind the vehicle to allow the liftgate to operate smoothly and free from blockages.
Checking for any obstructions in the sensors' path is crucial, as debris or items blocking the area can disrupt functionality.
Consulting a certified technician if there are any issues ensures proper diagnosis and repair, preserving the liftgate's reliability and overall luxury experience.
How it Works
The hands-free liftgate is a game-changer for convenience and safety. The system uses capacitive sensors, similar to those in smartphone screens, under the rear bumper to detect your foot and trigger the liftgate mechanism.

These sensors can detect your foot from a distance, making it easy to use the liftgate without having to physically touch it. The system includes fail-safes to prevent accidental activation, such as not operating if the vehicle is in motion.
The vehicle's electrical system detects the key fob, typically within a range of about 3 feet, and verifies authorization before activating the liftgate. This ensures that the liftgate only opens when you're ready for it to.
The liftgate's obstacle detection system stops the gate from closing on objects or people, giving you peace of mind while loading or unloading cargo. This feature is a great example of Lincoln's commitment to safety in its design.
Customizing Settings
Customizing settings for your hands-free liftgate is a breeze with the Lincoln infotainment system. You can adjust the liftgate's opening height to suit your needs, making it perfect for spaces with low ceilings or for those who prefer a lower reach point.

The system allows you to save preferred heights as memory settings, ensuring consistent functionality for different needs. This means you can rely on your liftgate to open to a height that works for you, every time.
To customize these settings, navigate to the vehicle settings menu within the Lincoln infotainment system. From there, you can select the "Power Liftgate" or "Hands-Free Access" options to make adjustments.
Driver profiles enable you to sync liftgate preferences with your individual profile for seamless convenience. This means you can easily switch between different settings, whether you're driving for yourself or for someone else.
Sources
- https://www.chevrolet.com/support/vehicle/storage-doors-windows/hands-free-power-liftgate
- https://www.hoodchevy.com/benefits-of-having-a-hands-free-liftgate-covington-la
- https://www.autonationusa.com/research/used-cars-with-hands-free-liftgate.htm
- https://www.gm-navigation.com/top-vehicles-with-a-hands-free-power-liftgate/
- https://www.jimburkelincoln.com/blog/2024/december/27/how-to-use-hands-free-liftgate-on-a-lincoln.htm
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