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Why is My Outback’s Rear Lift gate Not Working?

The rear lift gate of a Subaru Outback is a feature most drivers rely on every day, making it a real hassle when it suddenly stops working. If you’re having issues with your Outback’s lift gate, you’re not alone. Here's a look at some common problems and possible solutions.

1. Battery Problems
The rear lift gate in newer Subaru Outbacks is powered by electricity, which means it relies on the car’s battery to function. If your battery is weak or drained, the lift gate might not open or close properly. Try checking the battery level and connections first.

Pro Tip: If your lift gate is slow to respond or doesn't open at all, it might be time to inspect or replace your car's battery.

2. Liftgate Motor or Actuator Failure
The motor or actuator responsible for opening and closing the lift gate can wear out over time. If you hear a clicking noise but the lift gate doesn’t move, the motor or actuator could be the issue.

Solution: These parts may need repair or replacement. Professional diagnosis can pinpoint the problem, saving you time and hassle.

3. Faulty Sensors
Your Outback’s lift gate relies on sensors to detect when to open or close. Dirt, ice, or debris can block these sensors, causing them to malfunction. Sometimes, the sensors themselves can go bad, leading to the lift gate not operating at all.

What to do: Clean the area around the sensors, especially after driving through mud or snow. If that doesn’t work, the sensors might need to be replaced.

4. Problems with the Key Fob or Lock
Sometimes the lift gate issue isn’t with the gate itself but with the key fob or door locks. If the fob isn’t working correctly, it might not send the right signals to the lift gate. Similarly, if the rear door is locked, the lift gate won’t open.

Fix: Replace the battery in your key fob and make sure the rear doors are unlocked.

5. Software Glitches 
Like most modern cars, the Subaru Outback has software that controls many of its electronic features. Occasionally, a software issue can prevent the lift gate from working.

If you’re dealing with a lift gate that’s not functioning properly, the Subaru experts at John’s Auto Care can help. Schedule an inspection today! We’ll get your Outback back in top shape.

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