Recommended Trailer Hitch and Towing Accessories for 2016 Jeep Compass

Published 03/26/2020

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(384)

$162.49

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

(89)

$70.98

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2619)

$12.45

Draw-Tite Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 2-3/4" Rise, 4" Drop - 9" Long - 7.5K

(3466)

$38.68

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1358)

$12.80

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

(340)

$191.29

Question:

I have a 2016 Jeep Compass and I'm needing a Class III trailer hitch. I'll mainly use the hitch for a bike rack, but might tow a small jet ski trailer sometime in the future. I see you offer two different hitches, what is the difference between the two?

asked by: Robert D

Expert Reply:

Once installed, the etrailer branded # e98836 and the Draw-Tite # 75712 will appear almost identical, with the exception of the finish. The etrailer brand hitch uses a matte finish, while the Draw-Tite finish is glossier. The Draw-Tite hitch has a slightly higher capacity, but since the capacity of the vehicle itself is lower than that of the hitch (up to 2000 lbs towing/300 lbs tongue weight, depending on the engine/transmission used), the capacity difference is moot.

Due to the fact that the etrailer brand finish and build quality is a bit better, that's what I'd recommend. Since you will be towing at some point in the future, a few more items will be needed to complete your towing system. For a trailer wiring harness, use # 118539, and for a ball mount use # 2753 and # 19260 for a 1-7/8 inch ball or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball.

I've linked to installation videos for the hitches and wiring harness mentioned above.