Liftgate Issue After Stereo Work Completed

[goalieThreeOne]

I didn't want this to be my first post but I have a head scratcher that I can't seem to figure out on my own. 2017 Platinum.

Earlier last month I had a reputable car audio shop do a completely audio system overhaul. During that process they disconnected the third row speakers (at my request) and also took out the stock sub and replaced it with a JL Audio Stealthbox in that location. The only other modification I've done was replace the reverse lights with some Sylvania LEDs.

The problem is now my Intelligent Key does not work for the back hatch. Neither pressing the hatch entry button nor kicking under the bumper while the car is locked seem to do anything anymore.

I know that CANBUS is a tricky beast, so is it possible that replacing either the reverse lamps or disconnecting the third row speakers change the load enough that Intelligent Key no longer works. Or is it something as simple as a plug or harness in the rear that got left disconnected?

If you have any ideas or thoughts, I'd really appreciate it!

 

[peterk9]

Welcome to the Forum.
Does the dash button for the liftgate work? Did you do the bulb replacement before the stereo work? If so, did the liftgate work then? I don't see how replacing the bulbs would affect the liftgate. Several members have done the same replacement without issues. It's quite possible that something got disconnected during the stereo installation.

Peter

 

[MM07]

There are many wires under the back panels. I’d take it back and have them disassemble the back panels and look.

 

[goalieThreeOne]

Welcome to the Forum.
Does the dash button for the liftgate work? Did you do the bulb replacement before the stereo work? If so, did the liftgate work then? I don't see how replacing the bulbs would affect the liftgate. Several members have done the same replacement without issues. It's quite possible that something got disconnected during the stereo installation.

Peter

Last night I pulled out the replacement reverse LED's and put the originals back in. It didn't fix the issue. Dash button for the liftgate works. The exterior tailgate handle also works but ONLY when the car is unlocked. Both the passenger and driver proximity function work and I've also replaced the battery in the fob. The proximity and kick functions worked before the stereo installation.

I pulled out the stealthbox to look in the rear passenger side panel. The only disconnected harness in there is for the factory subwoofer which is expected.

I can't find any technical documentation on where the Intelligent Access modules/antennas are located. I know that both cargo area side panels were removed to disconnect the rear speakers. Does anyone happen to know where those modules are physically located?

 

[goalieThreeOne]

There are many wires under the back panels. I’d take it back and have them disassemble the back panels and look.

Do you happen to know where the modules are located? I've only been able to look behind the passenger lower side panels and I didn't see anything that resembled the modules I found on the Ford Parts website

 

[MM07]

I don't. On the right side, where the panel comes off to replace the sub, there are many plugs in that area. Maybe it is in there?

 

[Michael Blackburn]

Try the rearmost panel that goes over the bottom latch. Inside is a connector. When that is off, the front button works but the liftgate button and foot sensor doesn't.
You have to take off the piece that gets removed to get out the spare tire. Then the big panel pulls out.

Fritz

 

[goalieThreeOne]

Try the rearmost panel that goes over the bottom latch. Inside is a connector. When that is off, the front button works but the liftgate button and foot sensor doesn't.
You have to take off the piece that gets removed to get out the spare tire. Then the big panel pulls out.

Fritz

You are a genius!

That's exactly what it was. Plugged it in and everything worked perfectly. I can't believe it was that simple. It looks like you have to take off that rear panel to take off the side panels and they forgot to plug it back in. Thank you so much!

 

[MM07]

That’s great! Thanks for the help Michael.

 

[peterk9]

Good call. I wasn't aware that part had to be removed before taking the side panels off.

Peter

 

[goalieThreeOne]

Good call. I wasn't aware that part had to be removed before taking the side panels off.

Peter

https://embed.widencdn.net/pdf/plus/jlaudio/9uyfh3umsx/SBFEXPL310W3v3.pdf?u=ndijqi

The installation instructions for my JL Stealthbox actually show this and had I bothered reading it thoroughly I would have caught it right there on step 4.