What is the purpose of the flip-up tailgate window?

[jastevenson]

Can anyone explain the use case for the flip-up rear window on the tailgate?

I had assumed that maybe it was for carrying really long items, but then I read that driving with it open can damage the glass or hinges.

And it can’t really be used for ventilation since it doesn’t roll down.

So what is the purpose? Do others find it useful?

Thanks!

 

[wakeboarder]

I wish my wife’s Hyundai Santa Fe had it also.
1. It allows you to pack the back to the brim. After you fill up the back you can add more things through this window.
2. It is great when you need to quickly grab something small from the back.
3. If you are ever backed close to objects you can still access stuff in the back.
4. If you have a hitch carrier or bike rack in the receiver you can access things in the back without unloading or tilting.

 

[Expedition Dave]

I have had little use for it currently, as it is not designed to be open when moving, unless lashed to whatever is sticking out the back. That being said--I would never just want a completely sealed window/hatch. You never know (as the above poster stated)

As a list of the many things Ford should do for the Expy, an electric window that goes up and down should seem to be one of them.

As an aside, a LC rear opens up like a clam (don't know the proper name for that) and you can sit on the tailgate, properly.

YMMV.

 

[shane_th_ee]

Also useful if your tongue jack is too close to the Expedition to allow the rear hatch to swing open.

 

[Wayne Decker]

Ventilation for the dogs (crated) when parked.

 

[JExpedition07]

Ventilation for the dogs (crated) when parked.

I use the electric rear side ventilation windows and the moonroof for that....leaving the back open leaves the truck pretty unsecured.

 

[dlcorbett]

Loading and unloading small items into the vehicle.

 

[wakeboarder]

As a list of the many things Ford should do for the Expy, an electric window that goes up and down should seem to be one of them.

I think they don’t do this because an open lift gate window may increase the risk of carbon monoxide getting into a vehicle.

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

On my 2015 Expedition Limited, I have found the window to be very useful to add or remove items to the rear - without opening the hatch.

It is also useful to open and push items forward, that have slid back against the inner hatch, which often causes items to fall out of the rear when the hatch is opened. On the third generation models, Ford did a miserable job with the rear cargo area - as the floor slopes downward to the rear, and there are no provisions for a cargo net or tie down straps.

I live in the Midwest and park the vehicle outside often during the daytime. At my home, I will leave the hatch window open to vent the vehicle, so when I enter the vehicle on a hot day - it is not so oppressive inside. I use the vehicle daily for grandchildren, and venting the heat is useful.

 

[Fozzy]

I think they don’t do this because an open lift gate window may increase the risk of carbon monoxide getting into a vehicle.

I think this is why the Gen 4’s don’t have the venting rear windows. Your list is spot on. I would just add quick access to the cooler.


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[JExpedition07]

I think this is why the Gen 4’s don’t have the venting rear windows. Your list is spot on. I would just add quick access to the cooler.


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I was unaware the gen 4 doesn’t have this option available. The 3rd gen had fixed windows standard but Eddie Bauer and Limited models had optional electric side vent windows. I’ve never had exhaust enter the cab, and unless in a closed space where any window will allow gases in they are too high to allow carbon monoxide in since CO sits low. It was likely a cost savings deletion. I’m pretty sure the new Transits have this option available.

 

[joethefordguy]

Can anyone explain the use case for the flip-up rear window on the tailgate? I had assumed that maybe it was for carrying really long items, but then I read that driving with it open can damage the glass or hinges. And it can’t really be used for ventilation since it doesn’t roll down. So what is the purpose? Do others find it useful? Thanks!

Do Not Run Down My Flip Up Rear Window!!! it is a lifesaver. Heathen!

your post gives the impression you have never loaded anything into the back of your truck... since obviously you've never had stuff fall out when you open the hatch.
the flip up window is a grocery lifesaver!!!!

now you know.

 

[Expedition Dave]

I think they don’t do this because an open lift gate window may increase the risk of carbon monoxide getting into a vehicle.

The reason is b/c Ford saves money, complexity and weight by not having this feature--even if they were to "say" that. And, rarely utilized... but if it was an option, I'd get it.

Toyotas (and others) have had power rear glass for years and still do.

 

[carymccarr]

1) putting/getting things in/out in a tight spot (car right at your bumper, low overhead ceiling etc)
2) The dog is in back and will make a run for it if I open up the gate
3) Throwing in something small
4) coming/going on a trip and back is completely filled to the gils and opening the entire gate would cause a crap-a-lanche


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[wakeboarder]

The reason is b/c Ford saves money, complexity and weight by not having this feature--even if they were to "say" that. And, rarely utilized... but if it was an option, I'd get it.

Toyotas (and others) have had power rear glass for years and still do.

With the information below, I still stand behind that CO is a valid reason for Ford not offering the power lift gate window.

Quote from CDC website: “Any moving vehicle with a vertical rear tailgate or door (e.g., a station wagon or pickup truck with a camper shell cover) creates negative air pressure behind it. Because of this vacuum, opening the rear window of a camper or station wagon can result in high concentrations of exhaust fumes entering the vehicle. Holes in the body of the vehicle or leaks around windows or doors may also allow fumes to enter the passenger compartment.”

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00001926.htm

 

[carymccarr]

With the information below, I still stand behind that CO is a valid reason for Ford not offering the power lift gate window.

Quote from CDC website: “Any moving vehicle with a vertical rear tailgate or door (e.g., a station wagon or pickup truck with a camper shell cover) creates negative air pressure behind it. Because of this vacuum, opening the rear window of a camper or station wagon can result in high concentrations of exhaust fumes entering the vehicle. Holes in the body of the vehicle or leaks around windows or doors may also allow fumes to enter the passenger compartment.”

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00001926.htm

No doubt. It’s the exact reason why the rear gate is completely covered in dust after even a quick ride down a dirt road in the summer. I have a feeling that cracking the front windows would negate the effect of exhaust being sucked in but they don’t want that liability I’m betting.

 

[Expedition Dave]

Please forward that info to Toyota before they get someone killed.

And make that Ford too, as you can run the Expedition with the rear window WIDE open. So there's that too.

I'd also recommend you read the entire 30 year old article, and note the rarity of these incidents even at the time of publish, as well as the age and type of vehicles it is occurring in (30++ years ago).

 

[Dice Roll]

I find the lift glass super useful. Trailer on. Trailer off. Just many times it’s the best option.

 

[sjwhiteley]

Personally, never used it in maybe 20 years (well, maybe once when hauling some 10’ lumber).

but, you know it’s there if you need it!

 

[carymccarr]

I find the lift glass super useful. Trailer on. Trailer off. Just many times it’s the best option.

Yep. Or even a hitch mounted cargo carrier, bike rack or ski rack.