Will The GearDeck H00604 Effect MPG And How To Determine Rear Hatch Clearance

Question:

I have a 2023 Toyota Highlander platinum series. How much will the GearDeck 17 Enclosed Cargo Carrier affect my gas mileage on a trip from WI to AZ? Will it allow me to open my rear cargo area door while it is attached?

asked by: Kathleen M

Expert Reply:

A hitch mounted cargo carrier like the GearDeck 17 Enclosed Cargo Carrier # H00604 will have little to no effect on fuel economy. Roof mounted boxes on the other hand, can reduce fuel economy by up to 25%. The GearDeck is stored on the back of the car - a naturally aerodynamic location. Any effect on your MPG would be barely noticeable.

As far as opening your rear hatch, the closest edge of the GearDeck # H00604 will sit 50" away from the hitch pin hole when full extended. We do not have specs as far as the hatch size on the 2023 Highlander, but you could easily take a few measurements and see how close the hatch gets to the 50" mark. This should give you a really good idea of your clearance.

expert reply by: Jesse M