Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Pinch Sensor: Description
Vehicles equipped with a power liftgate utilize two pinch sensors. One pinch sensor is located on each side of the liftgate. These sensors look like weatherstrips, however they consist of pieces of electrically conductive rubber (tapeswitch), wires, resistor, double sided tape, and a plastic carrier. Pinch sensors are used to provide additional protection against vehicle damage or personal injury caused by an obstacle being "pinched" between the liftgate and the liftgate opening of the vehicle.
The pinch sensors are wired in series with the power liftgate control module. If one pinch sensor becomes defective the module will act as though both sensors are defective. The power latch "Cinching" operation will be disabled if a problem is detected by the control module.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.