B144D on Lincoln: How to Diagnose & Fix
Tailgate/Liftgate/Boot/Trunk Position Sensor — Signal Invalid
1 Lincoln model · 1 documented issue
B144D on Lincoln by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Ford documents several distinct Aviator power-liftgate conditions. On some 2020-2022 vehicles, failure only through hands-free intelligent access or the outside handle while doors are locked can result from a poor connection at rear-keyless-entry connector C4332 below the striker (SSM 50810). Some 2020-2021 inoperative liftgates can involve RGTM software (SSM 49914). Early 2020 vehicles built on or before February 17, 2020, can partially open or trigger a false anti-theft alarm with B144D, B144E, B1555, or B1556 from RGTM software (SSM 49015). These bulletins do not diagnose every liftgate fault.
Common Symptoms
- Hands-free or outside-handle opening fails while doors are locked
- Power liftgate is inoperative
- Early-build liftgate opens only partially
- False anti-theft alarm with liftgate-ajar sensing
How to Fix
Record which inputs fail, door-lock state, build date, movement, latch behavior, warnings, and RGTM DTCs. For the SSM 50810 symptom, inspect connector C4332 for connection, terminal, and pin-fit problems. For a matching SSM 49914 or 49015 software condition, use the latest Ford diagnostic software to reprogram the RGTM. If the symptom does not match, continue Workshop Manual diagnosis of power, grounds, switches, latch, position sensing, struts, wiring, and obstruction detection before selecting a part. This record intentionally has no commerce link.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipTest each input with the doors locked and unlocked and save the RGTM scan; input-specific behavior separates connector, software, and mechanical paths.
- WarningDo not buy a latch, strut, motor, or RGTM from a generic no-open symptom; Ford's SSMs first require a specific symptom/build/DTC match.
Sources for this issue (3)
B144D code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does B144D mean on a Lincoln?
B144D stands for "Tailgate/Liftgate/Boot/Trunk Position Sensor — Signal Invalid." The Rear Gate/Trunk Module (RGTM) monitors the Hall-effect position sensors built into the power liftgate drive units to track gate travel and detect obstructions. B144D (typically reported with sub-type :29, 'signal invalid') sets when the position-sensor signal the module receives is implausible — missing pulses, no change during commanded travel, or a pattern the module cannot reconcile with gate position. Ford SSM guidance for 2020 Explorer/Aviator lists B144D alongside B144E, B1555 and B1556 as the fault set produced when the RGTM software incorrectly senses the liftgate ajar; on those vehicles the fix is an RGTM software update rather than hardware. Sensor numbering (1 vs 2) varies between published DTC charts. On Lincoln it is documented across 1 model: Aviator.
What are the most common causes of B144D?
The most common causes of B144D are: Outdated RGTM software incorrectly interpreting gate position (Ford SSM — reprogram RGTM), Water intrusion into a power liftgate drive unit / motor assembly, Failed Hall-effect position sensor inside the liftgate strut motor, Damaged or chafed liftgate harness in the hinge/loom area, or a corroded connector, Binding gate, worn struts or a misaligned latch producing implausible travel data. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix B144D on a Lincoln?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Lincoln model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
Looking for B144D on a different make?
View B144D across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.