Adding 4-Way Trailer Connector to 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk with OEM 7- and 4-Way Connector

Question:

I have installed the factory hitch and was looking to use the HM11142464 wiring harness and somehow tie it in to the OEM 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket. What and how would I go about doing this?

asked by: Nathan

Expert Reply:

The Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Connector # HM11142464 referenced in your question will plug into ports behind the driver and passenger side tail lights on your 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk to provide you with an additional 4-Way connector. Because it will be wired to different circuits than your existing OEM 7- and 4-Way connector both connectors can be used at the same time.

It sounds like you are then looking for a way to integrate the new 4-Way into the OEM bracket on your Jeep. Looking at pictures of the OEM bracket and socket it doesn't look like this will be possible. Because the factory hitch on the Jeep also has a concealed design that doesn't give you a crosstube to work with for attaching another bracket, your best option will be to simply tuck the connector and harness into the trunk/hatch when it's not in use so you can maintain the clean look of your rear bumper.

I have attached an installation video for the very similar Curt harness (we don't yet have an install video for the Hopkins) just so you can see exactly how it will install and mount.

expert reply by: Chris R