Is Brake Light Relay Kit Required for Flat Towing a 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk

Published 04/03/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(399)

$1489.90

Demco Commander II Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(80)

$879.00

Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(386)

$528.60

Hopkins Custom Tail Light Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles

(53)

$82.05

Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles

(704)

$47.77

Question:

Is the brake lite relay required when flat towing if I am using the Hopkins HM56208? The vehicle has the key ignition. I also will be using the Patriot braking system. I received the bulletin with my order of components and was surprised to see this. Thanks

asked by: Lyle P

Expert Reply:

Yes, you will need to use the Brake Light Relay # RM-88400 since you are using the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, even though you are using the Hopkins Wiring Kit # HM56208 on your 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk. The relay kit is just required for any braking system that physically pushes on the brake pedal like what the Patriot does.

For a complete flat towing setup you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental braking system, and possibly a high-low adapter. It sounds like you're doing a great job of researching and choosing the various towing components but if you don't already have parts chosen (or purchased) then I recommend the Demco Tabless Base Plate Kit # DM9519308 and the Commander II Non-Binding Tow Bar # DM9511012 which also comes with safety cables.

You probably won't need a hi-low adapter as most Jeeps don't require one, but with the Commander II you actually have a little bit of a range of adjustment to lessen the need of an adapter. I have attached a link to our selection of adapters and a helpful articles to help you determine if one might be needed or not.

Attached are some videos for you to check out.