Bike Racks For a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica That Doesnt Impact Lift Gate Hatch Use

Question:

I want a rack for a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. But I am concerned about an accidental opening of the lift gate damaging the lift gate and rack. Is there any safety features to prevent that.

asked by: Pat M

Expert Reply:

For a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, you can choose between a hitch mounted rack and a trunk mounted rack. The biggest reason for one over the other would be what kind of bikes you have.

If you have a lot of standard framed bikes and don't mind giving up the use of the rear hatch, or you have a Hybrid model, a trunk mounted carrier like the Yakima FullBack 3 Bike Rack, part # Y02633 is a good pick. This is a fully featured rack that includes an integrated bike lock and a security strap for the rack itself, and it mounts directly onto the rear hatch of the vehicle. I

You can purchase a Swagman Frame Adapter Bar, part # 64005, to help load and carry Children's, Women's, Step Through or Aggressive frame bikes level, lowering the risk of damage to the bike and vehicle.

If instead you'd like to add a hitch to your non-hybrid 2017 Chrysler Pacifica to carry 4 or more bikes, then you'll want to add a hitch like the etrailer Class III hitch, part # e98903. This hitch can be installed with no drilling, though several parts may need to be lowered, and an underbody panel trimmed with a pair of snips like part # PT79ZR. Additionally, the exhaust must be temporarily lowered for installation and the heat shield must be modified or trimmed. I've included a video of this hitch being installed on a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica so you can see what this process looks like.

To avoid the risk of lifting the rear tailgate into the rack and other similar concerns, you'll want to pick a rack that tilts-away or swings-away. This will allow you to move the rack out of the path of the opening lift gate and avoid damaging the bikes, the racks or the vehicle itself.

A great example of this is the Rocky Mounts BackStage, part # RKY10002. It's a 2-bike platform rack that swings completely out of the way of the rear hatch. Ths way you can access the cargo area without any worry of damaging the van or the rack. I've linked a video of the BackStage being demonstrated on a 2018 Pacifica for you.

I've included videos of all of these rack options so you can compare them for yourself.