Have you been in this position before? You go to the grocery store, and suddenly, you’re dragging a cart full of bags to your car. Finally, you reach your car after walking from the store to the parking lot. The problem comes when you discover that you cannot open the back door because both of your hands are occupied. Don’t you wish that there was a way that you could just unlock that back door without having to fumble for your keys? Thanks to modern tech advancements, there's now a simpler method for opening that back door: Welcome the power liftgate.
What Is a Power Liftgate and How Does It Work?
To put it simply, a power liftgate automatically opens your vehicle's back door. You can activate it by using your key fob, pressing a button in your car, or even just waving your foot under the bumper. It's a super convenient feature for any vehicle.
What Are the Features of a Power Liftgate?
Here are a few of the beneficial features of a power liftgate:
Programmable Height Adjustments: Many current power liftgate systems come with this function, which lets you set the door's maximum height when it's opened. This feature enhances safety by making it easier to open the door in areas with limited overhead space. It also guarantees that people of all heights can access the door easily.
Hands-free: With older versions, you had to use a key fob or press a button to unlock the back door. But in the latest systems, you can now open back doors without using your hands. Just give a little wave under the bumper, and voila! The door swings open like magic. This feature is handy when your hands are tied up, and you still need to open that door.
Lock Button: Sometimes, you might spot a lock button on the trunk, liftgate, or cargo area of certain systems. This handy feature gets rid of the need to lock the vehicle manually once you've shut the liftgate.
What Cars Have Power Liftgates?
These days, lots of newer and popular rides come with power liftgates. Toyota models like the Venza, Highlander, and Sienna offer power liftgates in higher trims. Having a power liftgate is pretty handy, and it's becoming more common in today's new vehicle lineup. But for those rides that don't have it yet, you can always get it as an upgrade. If you're considering going for the upgrade, figure out if you need it first before taking the plunge.
Is It Worth It To Install A Power Liftgate System?
In terms of convenience, power liftgates can be a real game-changer, especially if you often utilize your vehicle's cargo or backdoor. The idea of being able to open the rear door without having to juggle whatever you're carrying adds to its appeal. Picture this scenario: you're rushing to drop off a passenger who needs quick access to something in the cargo area. They might even forget to close it behind them. But with a power liftgate system, the problem is solved: You can shut it without leaving the driver's seat.
This perk is useful, especially if you own an SUV or have a vehicle with doors that are larger and heavier than average ones. It is undoubtedly a useful feature. However, in the end, it is still your decision whether or not spending money on this feature is worth it.
If you're on the lookout for your next car, make sure to determine what features you can't live without before heading to the dealership. Deciding whether a power liftgate is necessary depends on how you drive and what you need. Some vehicles come with a power liftgate in their base model. But for others, you might have to move up to a higher trim level to get this feature. Usually, upgrading to a higher trim means getting more than just a power liftgate. Going for a model with a power liftgate can enhance your overall driving experience. Drop by Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, AL, to check out our range of vehicles equipped with a power liftgate.