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

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jastevenson

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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

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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

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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.
 

dlcorbett

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Loading and unloading small items into the vehicle.
 

99WhiteC5Coupe

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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

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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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