Does Muffler Need to Be Temporarily Dropped to Install Draw-Tite 76144 Hitch on 2019 Jeep Compass

Updated 06/13/2020 | Published 06/11/2020

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2621)

$12.45

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

(1358)

$12.90

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

(76)

$81.14

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 4" Rise, 6" Drop - 14-1/4" Long - 6,000 lbs

(3838)

$41.40

Question:

Can you bolt a 2 receiver hitch directly to a 2019 Jeep Compass Trailhawk without ping the exhaust. I had a 2010 Renegade Trailhawk and it was that simple. Thanks

asked by: Andy K

Expert Reply:

Because of the way the muffler sits transversely behind the rear bumper, it's not possible to install a hitch on a 2nd generation Compass without temporarily dropping the exhaust. The exhaust tips and muffler will prevent you from accessing the frame mounting points on the passenger side.

As you can see in the installation video for the Draw-Tite # 76144, the installation isn't too terribly difficult. I'll also link to a video showing the typical process to easily lower an exhaust.

If you'll be towing with the hitch, you'll need a few other items. For a trailer wiring harness, use # C56369. For a ball mount, use # D-28 and a # PC3 hitch pin. For a 1-7/8 inch trailer ball, use # 19260 or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball. I've also linked to an install video for the wiring harness.