Recommended 4-Way Trailer Wiring Harness for 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Question:

Greetings, I hope all is well. I will be towing only u-haul trailers max 3000 lb with my 2019 Grand cherokee without factory tow package. I will need only 4 way flat connector. Do I really need to install a power module and run live wire to the battery ? When towing, would it be overloading my taillight wiring if I just plug in the connections to taillight connectors without 12v wire run to the battery ? I already got the wiring/connector C55774. Since I found out an hour ago that I dont have any USCAR connector socket where it was supposed to be, I cant really use it. I see on your website 4-7 pin connector wiring harnesses but I cant really install and run cables and solder and crimp and what not... Id rather not attempt to install or pay $$$ to have it installed. Thank you,

asked by: Nate

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since your 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee isn't equipped with the factory US Car connector under the bumper then your best option for adding the needed 4-Way harness is with the Tekonsha T-One # 118727. This is still a custom harness that installs by simply plugging into factory ports behind the driver and passenger side tail lights (you will need to remove the tail lights to access the harness).

Then as you mentioned, the hot lead will need to be run up to the Jeep's battery. When this type of configuration is required it's because the factory tail light circuits on the vehicle simply aren't capable of handling the extra power draw from trailer lights. Running the hot lead to the battery takes this burden off of the factory circuits' shoulders to ensure both that the trailer lights are powered sufficiently and that the factory wiring on the Jeep is protected from any potentially damaging shorts.

Because of this I do not recommend installing the harness without running the hot lead as it could lead to expensive damage on your brand new vehicle. Even with this connection you won't need to splice or solder any wires when installing the harness.

I have attached an installation video on your very vehicle that you can follow along with.

expert reply by: Chris R

John W.

8/12/2020

Can I use the power port outlet located in the right rear side panel of the luggage compartment to power the trailer light module? 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee without tow package.

Jon G.

8/25/2020

Nope. The whole point of the hot lead is to bypass your OEM wiring. If you were to connect the trailer wiring to this circuit and blow a fuse then that means you'd lose power to your 12V circuit and all of your trailer lights. It's always best to follow the directions and run it straight to your vehicle battery.