Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland

Updated 01/29/2018 | Published 01/27/2018

Question:

Hi , i have a 2016 jeep Overland and i need to tow my boat this summer , its a 18.5 foot bayliner open deck, its not a big boat but i dont know if the truck is able to tow this and if there is a a kit to fit on the vehicule for towing ... thank you very much !

asked by: Alexis

Expert Reply:

I took a look at the online owner's manual for your 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland. If you have just the Jeep Cherokee, please let me know and I will look into this further. Under the "Trailer Towing" section, it lists a fairly large towing capacity range of 3,500 pounds up to 7,200 pounds, depending on the engine size and particular factory package. I recommend verifying this information for your specific vehicle in your copy of the manual, although it looks like at the base level, your vehicle has at least a 3,500 pound towing capacity. You will just need to make sure the combined weight of both the trailer and your Bayliner falls below this limit.

Starting with a trailer hitch for your Jeep Overland, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch # 75699 as long as you don't have the Diesel model. This Class III hitch is confirmed to fit your vehicle and will use existing holes in its frame for a no-drill installation. The hitch will provide you with a 2 inch receiver opening and it has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, remembering to keep in mind that you will still need to follow the Jeep's capacity if it is lower.

I have attached an installation video on your Jeep that you can use for reference.

Then, if your Jeep does not have the factory tow package, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118727. This custom-fit harness will install by connecting directly to the ports located behind the driver and passenger side tail lights. This will give you a 4-Way connector that will connect with and power a trailer's basic signal lights. I have again included an installation video that you can check out.

In order to tow a trailer, you will also need a ball mount and hitch ball. I have attached a great article that explains how to pick out the best one for your particular setup. I have also included a link that will take you to our available selection and a couple articles on trailer towing that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R