What Does Lowest-Rated Component Mean for 2016 Jeep Compass

Updated 08/27/2019 | Published 08/26/2019

Question:

Towing Bass Boat w/ 2016 Jeep Compass Sport 4x4. Because you mentioned the 4x4 version, which I have, I wanted to ask about your comment that you’re always restricted by the lowest rated component... You said it’s usually the vehicle. But is that the trailer weight or the tongue weight? My manual provides the following tow ratings: Frontal Area = 32 sq ft Max Gross Trailer Weight = 2,000 lbs Max Tongue Weight = 300 lbs I have a bass boat that has a factory dry weight of 1050 lbs, and I’m sure it’d be less than 2000 lbs loaded with gear, so I’m thinking that I’m OK to tow, based on trailer weight, but what is tongue weight exactly? I’m guessing the boat puts more than 300 lbs of weight in the tongue and thus the trailer hitch when attached. And that seems like it could be problematic. Is it? Many thanks!

asked by: Robbie W

Expert Reply:

Put simply, the lowest-rated component for towing with your 2016 Jeep Compass means whatever is rated lower - the Jeep itself or the equipment you are towing with. For example, the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch # 75712 is rated for 3,500 lbs towing and 525 lbs tongue weight. Since you mentioned your Jeep is rated for 2,000 lbs towing and 300 lbs tongue weight, those are your limits for towing capacity.

Tongue weight is the downward force put on the hitch when it has a trailer connected, and you will need to remain under 300 lbs to tow safely with your Jeep. Tongue weight is generally 10% to 15% of your trailer's GVWR so I recommend finding out what that is via the paperwork or possibly on a tag on the trailer tongue.

To absolutely ensure you are under your tongue weight capacity, you will need a scalelike the etrailer Trailer Tongue Weight Scale # e99044. Having more tongue weight than your vehicle is rated for can cause all sorts of problems with things like the chassis and transmission so a scale like this is an investment that can pay for itself many times over because it helps you avoid much larger potential issues.

I've added a link to an install of the Draw-Tite hitch for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S