How to Retrofit & Choose the Right Hands-Free Foot Sensor for Your Electric Power Tailgate

1. Compatibility & Selection

Q1: My vehicle does NOT have an electric tailgate. Can installing this kick sensor give me electric tailgate functionality?

Answer: No. This product is designed for vehicles that are already equipped with an electric power tailgate system. The kick sensor acts as an additional trigger method, allowing hands-free trunk operation. If your vehicle lacks an electric tailgate (factory or aftermarket), you must install a complete electric power tailgate lift kit first before adding this kick sensor.

Q2: My vehicle already has an electric tailgate. Which version should I choose?

Please select based on your electric tailgate system type:

• OEM Integrated Systems (Factory Electric Tailgate): For vehicles originally equipped with a factory electric tailgate. Uses a 6-wire harness connection.
• Aftermarket Systems (Retrofit Electric Tailgate): For vehicles equipped with an aftermarket power tailgate lift kit. Uses a 4-wire harness connection.

If you are unsure which system you have, please see Q3 below.

Q3: My electric tailgate was installed by the 4S dealership, and I don't know if it's factory or aftermarket. Which version should I pick?

Most electric tailgates installed at 4S dealerships are Aftermarket Systems (4-wire version).

To double-check:

1. Confirm with your installing dealership or technician.
2. Inspect the electric struts on your tailgate:
   • Factory Struts: Feature official car brand logos or OEM supplier stamps.
   • Aftermarket Struts: Typically feature only numeric part codes or general tags.

If you still cannot verify, feel free to send us photos of your struts and wiring, and our engineers will identify it for you.

Q4: Will this work with my Volkswagen Tiguan (or other brand/model) factory electric tailgate?

Yes! As long as your vehicle has a functional factory electric tailgate, you can use the OEM Integrated Systems version. The kick sensor is universally compatible based on signal trigger logic rather than specific vehicle models.

Compatible Global Vehicle Brands Include:

Q5: Can I use this with my Tesla factory electric tailgate?

Yes! Because Tesla utilizes custom wiring harnesses, please choose the corresponding custom version for your specific Model:

• Model Y Kick Sensor Kit
• Model 3 Kick Sensor Kit
• Model S Kick Sensor Kit
• Model X Kick Sensor Kit

2. Functionality & Logic

Q6: Will adding the kick sensor affect my original vehicle tailgate logic?

No. The kick sensor is an added trigger mechanism and does not modify original vehicle operating logic. Trigger conditions remain consistent with your original tailgate system (e.g., if the car requires unlocking before opening the trunk, the kick sensor follows the exact same requirement).

Q7: Will installation cause ECU errors or dashboard fault lights?

No. The sensor acts as an auxiliary signal controller and does not tamper with original vehicle software or OBD programs.

Q8: Does it require software coding or flashing?

No. It works directly once plugged in and wired correctly—zero coding required.

Q9: Does the kick sensor support both opening AND closing the tailgate?

Yes. Performing a kicking motion opens the tailgate, and performing the motion again while open commands it to close.

3. Safety & Warranty

Q10: Will installing the kick sensor affect my car's original warranty?

The kick sensor serves as an add-on control module for our complete electric power tailgate lift kit, which is fully CE-certified as a complete system. Under normal installation, it generally does not affect vehicle warranty. However, because local automotive dealer policies regarding aftermarket electronics vary globally, final warranty determination depends on your local dealer policy.

Q11: Will rain or car washes cause accidental false triggers?

No during regular driving and rain. The dual capacitive sensors rely on human leg movement logic. Rain, splashes, or passing animals will not trigger opening.

💡 Car Wash Tip: During automatic car washes, if the doors remain unlocked with key fobs nearby, wash equipment moving past the bumper may cause a trigger. Always lock your vehicle during automated car washes to prevent unintended opening.

4. Installation & Compatibility Checks

Q12: Is installation difficult? Can I DIY?

We provide detailed installation manuals, video guides, and 1-on-1 technical support. If you have basic DIY 12V auto modification experience, self-installation is possible. Otherwise, professional auto-shop installation is recommended.

Q13: Can I still use my original key fob, interior trunk buttons, and tailgate handles?

Yes, absolutely. All original remote keys, interior buttons, and trunk handle switches remain 100% functional.

Q14: Can this be installed on any aftermarket electric tailgate system?

Yes. The vast majority of aftermarket power tailgates are fully compatible with our 4-wire version. If unsure, contact us with photos of your controller unit.

Q15: Can I confirm compatibility before purchasing?

Yes! Please provide:

• Vehicle Brand, Model, & Year
• Photos of your electric tailgate struts
• Photos of your electric tailgate ECU box/connectors

Our technical team will confirm the right kit for you within 24 hours.