For Mercedes GLC owners, particularly those with the X253 SUV and C253 Coupe models, the desire to enhance vehicle utility often leads to considering towbar installation. If you’re looking to add towing capabilities to your GLC, you might be wondering about maintaining all your vehicle’s features, specifically the convenient kick sensor for hands-free tailgate access. This guide will walk you through a DIY towbar installation, focusing on how to retain your kick sensor functionality on your Mercedes GLC X253 or C253.
Understanding the Mercedes GLC X253 and C253 Designations
Before diving into the installation, let’s briefly clarify what GLC X253 and GLC C253 mean on Mercedes. Mercedes-Benz uses these designations to differentiate body styles within the GLC class. The X253 refers to the standard GLC SUV body style, known for its practicality and spaciousness. The C253 designates the GLC Coupe, a sportier variant with a sloping roofline, sacrificing some rear headroom and cargo space for a more stylish aesthetic. Both models, however, share the same platform and core mechanics, meaning many modifications, like towbar installations, can be approached similarly.
Retaining the Kick Sensor During Towbar Installation: Is it Possible?
A common concern when installing an aftermarket towbar on a Mercedes GLC X253 or C253 is the potential loss of the foot-activated tailgate sensor. Many installation guides and even some suppliers suggest disconnecting and discarding this feature. However, as demonstrated in this guide, retaining the kick sensor is indeed possible with careful modification and installation.
Step-by-Step Modification for Kick Sensor Retention
The key to keeping your kick sensor lies in modifying the sensor bracket to accommodate the towbar. Here’s a breakdown based on a Hayman Reece towbar installation experience:
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Accessing the Kick Sensor Module: Locate the kick sensor module. It’s a small unit connected to sensor strips that are usually positioned behind the rear bumper.
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Removing the Sensor Strips: Carefully detach the sensor strips from their original bracket. These strips are typically clipped in place and connected with wires to the module. Disconnect the plugs after removing the white tabs as shown in the image below.
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Modifying the Bracket: The original bracket may need to be trimmed or reshaped to fit around the new towbar structure. In the example of the Hayman Reece bar, cutting the bracket up to the second sensor “rail” allowed for it to remain functional.
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Refitting the Sensors: Reinstall the sensor strips onto the modified bracket. For sensors that might be obstructed by the towbar, folding them carefully and securing them in a new position with drilled holes can redirect their sensing area effectively.
Wiring and Electrical Considerations
Connecting the towbar electrics is another crucial step. Using a wiring kit like the Westfalia part simplifies this process.
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Fuse Box Access: Locate the fuse box, usually in the rear cargo area.
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Positive Wire Connections: The Westfalia kit, for instance, involves clipping new positive wires into designated fuse slots. These slots are usually pre-identified with fuse numbers in the installation instructions. Remember to remove existing fuses before inserting the new blocks.
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Final Fuse Block Installation: Once the new wires are in place, re-insert the fuse blocks, adding new fuses as specified in the wiring instructions.
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Trailer Brake Controller Wire: If you plan to install an electric trailer brake controller in the future, remember to run an extra positive wire to the trailer plug during this wiring stage.
Conclusion: Towing and Technology Combined
Installing a towbar on your Mercedes GLC X253 or C253 doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the convenience of your kick sensor. With careful modification and following these steps, you can successfully add towing capability while retaining this useful feature. Remember to consult your specific towbar and wiring kit instructions and consider professional coding (SCN 550) for full integration. Enjoy the enhanced versatility of your Mercedes GLC, ready for both daily drives and towing needs!
