Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo

Question:

I currently have a 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, with no factory tow package. Im looking to have a hitch installed but am unsure about what products I should go with. Im moving from Virginia to Washington State within the next month and will need to haul a car behind for the entire trip. I want a sturdy product that I wont have to be concerned about while driving. Ive ready some reviews on the Curt 2inch item # C13065 as well as the Draw-Tite 2inch item # 75699. Im unsure as to what wiring I need to have it properly connected for the trailer lights to match up. Im unsure if my jeep has the connector in it. What would be the better option? Thanks in advance.

asked by: Marissa

Expert Reply:

We have everything you need to set your 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee up for towing.

Starting with the trailer hitch, I recommend going with the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch # 75699. This hitch is going to sit slightly further back from the rear bumper than the Curt model, making it a bit more hidden once installed. It will provide a 2 inch receiver opening and a 5,000 pound towing weight capacity, although you will still want to check the capacity of your Grand Cherokee as listed in the owner's manual.

I have attached an installation video on the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee that you can use for reference.

Moving onto wiring, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118425 to install a 4-Way connector at the rear of your Jeep to hookup to the trailer's signal lights. This harness is custom-fit for your vehicle and will plug into the existing ports behind the driver and passenger side tail lights. I have again included an installation video on your vehicle to use for reference.

If your trailer has electric brakes, you will also need to install a 7-Way connector along with a trailer brake controller. To install a fully functional 7-Way from the 4-Way installed with the above harness, you will use the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7. This will include everything needed to wire in a brake controller and 7-Way. I have attached an article that details the installation steps for this particular kit that you might find helpful.

Then for a trailer brake controller, I highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885. This is a great proportional controller that will activate the trailer's brakes at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in your Jeep. It features an easy-to-read digital display along with continuous diagnostics that will alert you to potential issues. This unit is well known for its reliability and ease of installation.

This will be everything you need to safely tow your car trailer with your Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo. I have also included a couple articles on trailer towing for you to check out.