When GMC introduced the new MultiPro Tailgate on the 2019 Sierra 1500 last year, we were (and still are) impressed. Not only did it offer vastly expanded functionality thanks to its six configurable positions, including a primary gate load stop, a full-width step, and an inner gate work surface, but it managed to do so through clever engineering and no extra digital doodads. However, since its introduction, some Sierra owners have notified us of an “issue” that should probably be brought to light: in its lowest configuration, the GMC Sierra MultiPro Tailgate can hit a ball hitch.
We recently got a chance to test the claim for ourselves with a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4. Without the ball hitch, the tailgate’s mid-gate drops exactly as intended, providing easier bed access as well as an extra step-up, along with all of its other benefits.
However, when we attached a standard ball hitch to the truck, we found that the GMC Sierra MultiPro tailgate would actually sit at a 45-degree angle when the mid-gate was dropped.
Obviously, this is less than ideal, as not only does it prevent the use of the step feature along with easier access to the bed, but it could also potentially scratch the paint or even dent the tailgate for those who drop it without exercising care or caution.
Luckily, GMC is aware of the issue, and even included this handy little sticker on the inside of the bed to notify owners not to lower the mid-gate when using the hitch.
Quite frankly, we’re somewhat mystified why anyone would consider this to be a real “issue.” After all, one can still open the tailgate normally (without dropping the mid-gate) on the 2019 GMC Sierra when a ball hitch is attached. In addition, the Sierra also comes with the CornerStep rear bumper – cutouts in the bumper to make it easier and more convenient to step up into the bed – so it’s not like bed access is limited when there’s a hitch attached. To the contrary, access to the bed with a hitch is identical to any other pickup truck on the market.
To that end, we think it’s far better to have the GMC Sierra MultiPro Tailgate and to be aware of its one limitation with a hitch, rather than not have the MultiPro Tailgate at all. The tailgate works like a standard (traditional) tailgate when a hitch is attached, while gaining significantly expanded functionality when the hitch comes off. All this makes this entire scenario a non-issue to us.
So, what do you think, readers? Is this an issue GMC should (somehow) address, or is it fine exactly how it is? Let us know in the poll, and voice your opinions in the comments.
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View Comments
It's Hillbilly Chic to leave the ball hitch in the receiver. Think about it.
How lazy must one be to think this is a design flaw?! It is to Alex on Autos etc.....
I own a Ram so this does not currently affect me. However, I do not leave my hitch on when I’m not towing something so this wouldn’t be a problem either. This is not nor should it be GMs responsibly especially considering they are already aware of it and put up a warning label to prevent people from doing it. People need to take ownership of their vehicles and take responsibility for their stupidity. If they dent their tailgate, that’s there fault.
I can see being careful and one day just forgetting and bang, you got a dent. Stuff happens.
Not a design issue, some people would complain that a free beer wasn’t their brand.
This is not unlike trying to use my Silverado back up assist with a ball in the receiver OR opening the tailgate. 45 deg open with the cables looped over the latch pins does work however!
Did anyone bother to test a drop hitch that gives clearance for the midgate to fully drop?!
And if your truck is too low to require that much of a drop get bigger wheels and tires or a suspension lift to make up the difference since you are already $60,000 deep in a new truck. Seriously I laugh at these first class problems.
I lifted my truck with a 7in lift on 35s and have a drop hitch, it still hits the hitch itself just not the ball so there needs to be a better fix by GMC, but u are right its definitely a first class kinda person problem....
I own the truck and feel ripped off, you have a awesome feature that is usable. Plus it's kinda embarrassing when your out with the buddies and of course the Ford guys are having a good laugh at your expense. GMC should produce a trailer hitch that will work with it.
I love this tailgate.
As I have said before GM can fix this RIGHT NOW for FREE !!
If GM had any real tech people they can simply use the camera system already on the truck and stop the second tailgate button from working when the camera sees the anything protruding further in the hitch location.
Update the BCM over the air and DONE.
Will GM do this, NOPE.
Why, the just don't care what the customer wants !!!
Just like the bed lights in the box, they could turn on just like a dome light off the tailgate signal, DONE.
GM simply has ZERO CUSTOMER SERVICE.
A real man has a B&W tow and stow hitch. When not in use a real man stores the ball in the stow position. Much ado about nothing.