Towing Capacity and What is Needed to Tow a Trailer with a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Question:

How much weight can I safely tow with grand cherokee laredo E 3.6 liter? Is there a tow package available

asked by: Pam

Expert Reply:

We have the parts available to equip your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo to tow a trailer but it isn't the same as having a factory tow pacakge on the vehicle. Vehicle manufacturers rate their vehicles for towing based on how they're originally equipped and adding aftermarket parts will not change that rating. From my research, and you can verify with your owner's manual, your Jeep has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds because the Laredo does not have the heavy-duty cooling option available. Models with the factory tow package and the 3.6L engine can tow up to 6,200 pounds and the for those equipped with the V8 it increases up to 7,200 pounds.

To tow a trailer with your Jeep you need to add a hitch receiver. I recommend the Draw-Tite, part # 75699, because I like the look of only being able to see just the receiver tube under the bumper. We carry a ball mount kit, part # 989900, that may work for you depending on your trailer. You need to determine which hitch ball size it fits and the rise or drop you need to tow level. I've linked a help article to help.

You also need wiring to power the trailer's lights. Part # 118727 fits the Laredo model. It plugs in behind the tail lights in-line with the existing wiring. Then there's a wire that needs to be run to the Jeep's battery. Its battery is underneath a panel under the passenger seat.

I've linked some videos on installing the recommended parts for you. As well as some articles on towing you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Charles S