Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2011 Jeep Liberty

Question:

I bought a 2011 Jeep Liberty but passed on the factory hitch because it is class III and sticks out beyond the bumper ouch. I used to have a 1994 Grand Cherokee with a class II hitch and it was set back under the bumper a bit, and I hope to buy a new hitch class II or III for my new Liberty IF there is one that is set back under the bumper, out of the way. Do you have photos of your hitch installed on a 2010 or 2011 Jeep Liberty?

asked by: John I

Expert Reply:

You may not believe this but even the Class II trailer hitches for a 2011 Jeep Liberty have the face of the receiver extend beyond the rear bumper of the vehicle. Since this is the case, I would go ahead with a Class III. If you are going to have bruised shins, might as well be from a hitch with a higher capacity and more accessory options.

For a Class III hitch I recommend the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, # 75578. I have included a link to the installation instructions. In the upper left corner there is a diagram showing what the hitch looks like once installed. We have not yet had the opportunity to install this or the other hitches on a 2010 or 2011 Jeep Liberty, so I do not have any pictures or videos I can send you.

If you plan on doing some towing, I recommend the etrailer Ball Mount Kit, # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts, 2 balls, and hitch pin with clip, and a carrying bag. For trailer wiring, use # 118554 if your Liberty does not have a tow package. Use # 118384 if it does have a tow package. I have included links to the installation details for both wiring harnesses.

expert reply by: Michael H