Towing Capacity and Trailer Hitch and Wiring for a 2016 Dodge Journey 4 Cylinder

Updated 12/12/2016 | Published 12/10/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(314)

$207.40

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(216)

$70.89

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(37)

$65.02

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(142)

$205.86

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$89.12

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

(867)

$112.40

Question:

I have a 2016 dodge journey with the 4 cylinder motor,will it tow a popup camper that weigs 1700 bs,if so what hitch do you recommend,do I need a transmission cooler.

asked by: JAMES M

Expert Reply:

According to the vehicle owner's manual the 2016 Dodge Journey with the 2.4 liter 4 cylinder motor has a maximum gross trailer weight capacity of 1,000 pounds and tongue weight capacity of 100 pounds. Based on this you would not be able to tow a 1,700 pound trailer. There aren't a lot of trailers that are under 1,000 pounds so if you have a different tow vehicle with a higher capacity I recommend using it for towing.

If you do find a trailer that is within the vehicle capacities then the most cost-effective hitch for your Journey is # 75648. I also recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

And for trailer wiring use # 118536 if the Journey has LED tail lights or # 118567 if it uses incandescent bulbs.

A transmission cooler is always a good idea if you are going to be towing. The most popular option for your Journey is # D13503. Please note that you have to use ATF +4 transmission fluid for your Journey.