Recommended Trailer Wiring For 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Without Tow Package

Updated 07/20/2020 | Published 12/10/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(331)

$58.55

No-Drill Mount for Electrical Mounting Bracket - Short

(1152)

$24.97

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

(1562)

$149.79

Brophy Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(471)

$17.18

Curt LED 4-Way Flat Connector (Vehicle End) Tester

(1844)

$6.20

Question:

I have a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee and I need wiring. I do not have the factory tow package, which one should I get?

asked by: Gerald

Expert Reply:

For your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness part # 118727. It's custom made for your Jeep and it gives you a 4 way flat trailer connector so you have all the lights to tow a trailer safely and legally. It gives you your tail light functions, turn signals, and brake lights.

The wiring installs behind your tail lights and plugs inline between the factory connector and the light assembly. There is no cutting or splicing of the factory wires, however a power wire needs to be ran to the battery because the converter box is powered to prevent over draw on your Jeep's light circuits.

I recommend that when you are routing your power wire, run along the passenger side of the frame towards the front. The battery is located under the passenger seat in the Grand Cherokee, but if you run the wire into the engine bay on the passenger side, there is a positive battery post near the windshield where the connection can be made. There's a red cap near the fender, this is also where you would jump start your Jeep if needed. I've attached a photo to show you where.

The wiring is designed to stay on the outside of your Jeep near your hitch receiver, so I recommend mounting your wiring, not only will it look cleaner but also protect the wiring from dragging. You can use part # BK4F for a 4 pole mounting bracket, and part # 18140 for a no drill bracket to mount to your hitch.

Once the wiring is in, you want to test it to make sure it is working properly. You can use your trailer and run through all the light functions, however if there is a problem you would need to find out if it is the trailer or Jeep. So when testing I recommend testing the Jeep first with a tester, you can use part # I26 Curt LED 4-Way Flat Connector Tester.

I have installed many wiring kits on several different vehicles and I personally like Tekonsha wiring the best. I think they have the most reliable design. The converter box seems more robust and substantial compared to others, and it's filled with a potting material or epoxy to protect the electronics inside.

If you don't already have a hitch, I recommend the Draw Tite hitch # 75699. It's least visible hitch, and has the best ground clearance once installed.

I linked a video of when I installed the wiring on a different year Grand Cherokee.

expert reply by: Robert C

click to enlarge

Joseph F.

7/10/2020

We are renting an Airstream 2018 Sport 16RB Bambi 16ft. This is our first time RV-ing. We are looking to rent different models of RVs 3 or 4 more times before deciding before buying. We bought in January a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited X, V8-5.7L with heavy duty cooling system with tow package. I know from my research we can easily tow the AS Sport. In preparation for another RV rental that never came to pass before Covid-19, we bought from you all the Curt Echo Wireless trailer brake controller and the K-Source Dual lens Towing mirrors. We will be traveling less than 500 miles. I am told by the RV owner that their trailer ball size is 2-5/16. Which ball mount do you recommend? Do we need anti-sway? How about a trailer break? Thank you in advance for your response and remember we are newbie at this adventure. Thanks.

Chris R.

7/14/2020

Since you plan on towing a few different trailers before you settle on one longer term, I think an adjustable ball mount is a good idea. This lets you raise or lower the ball to meet the trailer coupler height - keeping everything level. The B&W Tow & Stow # BWTS10037B is a great option that comes with both a 2-5/16" and 2" ball (in case your next trailer uses a 2" ball). The need for sway control or weight distribution will depend a lot on the trailer weight - do you know how much the trailer will weigh when loaded up? As for brakes, if the trailer is equipped with them they should be used. The Curt Echo you already have will take care of this.

Helpful Links

faq-trailertowtips.aspx

Joseph F.

7/16/2020

@ChrisR Hi Chris,Thanks for your suggestion on the B&W Tow and Stow. Will be ordering it before the weekend. On the trailer weight when loaded, I would say 3500#. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

Chris R.

7/20/2020

@JosephF Thanks for the info. You would probably get benefit out of a weight distribution system with that size trailer - but it's also not so heavy that one is absolutely needed. Since you plan on towing more than 1 trailer, I might hold off on adding a system to your setup. See how the trailer handles first without one. You'll know pretty quickly if a WD system with sway control is needed.