Tailgate Battery Saver Buddy | Subaru Gadget

Subaru owners have long reported that leaving the power tailgate open for more than a short time can drain the battery, since the onboard computer and liftgate electronics stay active even with the engine off. This gadget provides a simple solution: it locks into the latch area so the vehicle thinks the hatch is closed, letting you keep the tailgate open for camping, loading, or relaxing—without killing your battery. 

Simply inserting a carabiner into the hitch locking mechanism will not always prevent battery drainage due to  vehicle CANBus activation as reported by some users.

Tested on Subaru Forester Sport 2020 but may work also for other models.

Instructions (Mounting)

1. Open the tailgate using the regular release button.
2. Fit the gadget securely over the tailgate latch area—no tools or modifications required.
3. Gently close the tailgate with the gadget installed.
4. Listen for the soft-close mechanism to engage.
5. Once engaged, the tailgate locks onto the gadget while the vehicle’s computer registers the hatch as closed.
6. Lift the tailgate manually to the desired position. You can now leave it open indefinitely without draining the battery.
7. The gadget also features an opening that can be used to hang lanterns, lights, or other accessories.

Instructions (Removal)

1. When you press the tailgate open button, the power lift system will try to raise the hatch. If the tailgate is already fully open, this may strain or damage the mechanism.
2. To avoid this, first bring the tailgate to a mid-open position.
3. Press the “open tailgate” button once. The lock will disengage, and the gadget will be released.
4. The tailgate will begin to rise automatically—press the open button again to stop movement if needed.