The factory power tailgate function is a lot more than just the power lift module. There's a lot of integration with the car, including a different control module in the left rear quarter area, and most importantly the wiring and can-bus interface and software are different. The safety features for the power lift system are integrated with other systems, so for instance the actuator won't lift when the hatch is locked, plus the impact protection auto reverse function. The close button and related wiring are missing from the lower trim models, and the door lock interface for the remote isn't configured. You would only be able to open and close the hatch from the button in the driver's door under the best circumstances, assuming you could get the other modules in the car (instrument cluster, PCM, locks, power delivery components, interconnecting wiring) to communicate with a new gate control module.
During my years in this forum, questions about adding hi-line features to lower-trim versions come up regularly. I just want to add one or two things from a higher-line trim package... Honda builds each model/trim specifically, and there's virtually no wiring or communications ability to make even seemingly simple feature additions practical. Unfortunately, at least in my very limited personal one-time experience with the dealer salesperson, it's up to the buyer to do all their research on model features before walking in to buy a Honda. As a result, folks seem to find themselves wishing for higher-trim features only because they weren't aware when they shopped. There's plenty of trim-specific features we just don't use in ours, but there are easily enough that do get regular use to make the higher trim level very worthwhile for the way -we- use the car. Conclusion: Be an informed shopper before you first set foot on the dealer's lot.
During my years in this forum, questions about adding hi-line features to lower-trim versions come up regularly. I just want to add one or two things from a higher-line trim package... Honda builds each model/trim specifically, and there's virtually no wiring or communications ability to make even seemingly simple feature additions practical. Unfortunately, at least in my very limited personal one-time experience with the dealer salesperson, it's up to the buyer to do all their research on model features before walking in to buy a Honda. As a result, folks seem to find themselves wishing for higher-trim features only because they weren't aware when they shopped. There's plenty of trim-specific features we just don't use in ours, but there are easily enough that do get regular use to make the higher trim level very worthwhile for the way -we- use the car. Conclusion: Be an informed shopper before you first set foot on the dealer's lot.
