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It seems like every new vehicle these days is either an SUV or hatchback. That means nearly all of our rides have a rear hatch that swings up and open. And many of them have an extremely convenient feature: a power liftgate. But can you add an aftermarket power liftgate?
A power liftgate provides the ability to push a button on the dash, hit a key fob button, or swipe your foot under the rear bumper to have the tailgate automatically open.
The foot-activated liftgate on a Ford Escape makes it easy to load the cargo area even when your hands are full.
Unfortunately, a factory-installed power liftgate is usually only offered on expensive high-level trim packages. Stripped-down base models don’t provide an a la carte choice for a power liftgate.
Consider these examples. The base version of the 2022 Subaru Outback doesn’t offer a power liftgate. The option is available with the more expensive Premium model, increasing the price by about $4,500 compared to the base. To get the power liftgate on a new Chevrolet Equinox, you need to step up to the model’s LT version with the Confidence & Convenience Package. That adds nearly $6,000 in cost over the base Equinox.
DIY Savings for an Aftermarket Power Liftgate
The motorized struts are an easy replacement item on most vehicles.
Fortunately, there’s a way to electrify the tailgate of a used SUV that wasn’t originally equipped with a power version. eBay Motors offers a variety of aftermarket power liftgate kits.
These kits come with all the necessary pieces and detailed instructions. You get everything needed for a power liftgate that functions like the factory version—but at a fraction of the price. Kits usually include replacement power struts, several wiring harnesses, a control module, a power latch, and buttons or switches to activate the power liftgate.
However, the kits are not one-size-fits-all. You’ll need to buy a kit tailored to your specific model. And installing the kit requires a few hours of work. A DIYer needs to be willing to pry off a lot of trim pieces.
The steps include:
- Removing interior trim pieces
- Routing wiring harnesses
- Installing the motor and buttons
The hardest part is routing wires throughout the car. That requires pulling some interior pieces off to run the wires from the dashboard to the rear hatch. Wire harnesses provide power to the struts and the latch.
You will also need to install buttons on the dashboard and on the hatch to activate the system, rather than relying only on the key fob. Using your key fob’s button to activate the liftgate might require reprogramming the fob. That usually entails resetting the fob to a factory reset, and then it will recognize the power liftgate.
Most kits have a control module to connect the various pieces.
Finally, all the wires need to be connected to a control module. The job should take about four hours from start to finish.
Or Get Help Installing an Aftermarket Power Liftgate
If all of this seems daunting, local auto shops should be able to tackle the installation. Start by speaking with the vendor to verify that the kit works for your specific vehicle. And it’s a smart move to also chat with the local mechanic/installer to confirm that the purchased kit is complete.
Even if a shop charges $100 an hour for eight hours, the labor plus kit represents significant savings.
Why bother in the first place? Well, imagine walking up to your car with a child in one arm and a bag of groceries. You can either juggle everything while digging out your key—or have the hatch open effortlessly. It’s a pleasure to push a button and watch the hatch glide open and securely shut. Also, a driver can open the hatch to provide access to the rear cargo area without getting out of the car.
A power liftgate is one of those must-have options for a busy motorist.
