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 SHOULDN'T be able to hit a ball hitch, period. It would still hit a trailer when connected to the hitch. If you know, you wanted to use the step feature to climb into a boat from the bed or something. Stop telling people it's only a problem because they are too lazy to take off the hitch. Yeah, if you do clunk the trailer, on you I guess, but bad design. Also, if someone hits the hitch with their car, its THEIR FAULT they can't drive! Why do you need to get so close!? Ya, best practice is to take it off, but don't blame others for your clumsiness.
Stupid product anyways. All you need is a durable ass tailgate, possibly with a gas shock assist. Maybe a step (AT MOST) that drops out the bottom when in open position, with a latch mechanism that is DURABLE and doesn't rattle. Outside of that, sheer gimmick. Just figure out how to use a ratchet strap ffs. The Dodge, Ford, tailgates from 08' and earlier were heavy as hell, but guess what, they were STRONG. Rarely do I see a broken one. See broken GM, Dodge, sometimes Ford ones on newer trucks daily. GM handles falling off, Dodge gates getting dented or bent on top. They still probably take more abuse than this thing ever will.
really men!! whats the problem with leaving your hitch on your truck isnt that what a truck is for??? come on i leave my antenna on when im not listening to the radio whats up with this? most every truck that comes into the shop i work at has a hitch on it
how is cbd consumed
This is such a design flaw it is mind blowing. If you have a trailer on the full tailgate will hit the the trailer jack arm so it is nice the have the split gate to get access while connected. But then the split gate hits the hitch and you risk damage.
Simple fix is lower the main hitch bar a couple inches. Don’t just put a sticker that says caution we’re stupid and can’t fix this 80k-110k truck design.