DRAWBAR DETECTION DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE HAVING A HITCH RECEIVER

A drawbar detection device configured to be mounted to a hitch receiver having a drawbar opening and a locking pin opening device includes a blocking member pivotally connected relative to the hitch receiver. The blocking member includes a blocking element that, in a first position, covers one of the draw bar opening and the locking pin opening and, in a second position uncovers the one of the drawbar opening and the locking pin opening. A sensor is operatively associated with the blocking member. The sensor detects whether the blocking element is in the one of the first position and the second position and, upon detecting the blocking element in the second position, the sensor signals a vehicle control system to disable a vehicle latch system.