Need For MOPAR Flat Towing Wiring Kit for 2017 Jeep Cherokee 4x4 Limited

Updated 08/07/2019 | Published 08/06/2019

Question:

Dear etrailer.com, We are all set up to tow our 2017 Jeep Cherokee 4x4 Limited with Active Drive II behind our 2020 Newmar Canyon Star 3722 gas coach with the Ford V10 engine. Were using the Blue Ox Avail tow bar assembly along with the SMI Stay-n-Play Duo braking system. Also, the RV provides a wiring harness which activates all the Jeeps light functions, as well as, charging the battery. Are we required to install the Mopar Recreational Flat Tow Wiring Kit part 68321424AB in our Jeep to activate the power steering system, or can we tow the vehicle properly without it?

asked by: James C

Expert Reply:

The recreational towing section of the owner's manual for your 2017 Jeep Cherokee states that using the wiring kit for this particular vehicle is indeed necessary. They go on to caution that "Failure to use the proper Mopar wiring kit to power
the steering system during recreational towing may damage the vehicle’s steering system and/or other vehicle components."

This being said, my research has seems to contradict this. I've found a Mopar tech bulletin (08-022-16) that states that the need to use that wiring kit only applies to vehicles built before Feb 16, 2016, so it might not apply to your model. I'd recommend calling your dealer to see if they can clarify for you.

expert reply by: Mike L