Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2012 Jeep Compass and Can the Tow Hook be Re-Installed

Updated 10/04/2012 | Published 10/03/2012

Products Featured in This Question

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

(340)

$191.30

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(666)

$15.93

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(246)

$190.21

Question:

Would you say that this hitch fits better on 2012 jeep compas or is recommended over the curt 2inch equivelent, also could the tow hook be re-installed by just using longer bolts, trying to avoid leaving hole in trim...Thanks Why does the tech tip require heat shield removal for this curt hitch and not the draw-tite equivelent

asked by: Kevin

Expert Reply:

When choosing between the Draw-Tite or Curt trailer hitch, I would recommend going with the Draw-Tite hitch simply because it will save you a little bit of money and there is no real advantage in choosing the Curt hitch over the Draw-Tite hitch for your vehicle.

The main difference between the Curt and Draw-Tite hitch is that the Curt hitch has a slight higher towing and tongue weight capacity. Your vehicle will have a 1,000 lb or 2,000 lb towing capacity, based on how it was equipped, so either way you will be limited to the towing capacity of your Jeep, not the hitch. You should check your owners manual to verify the towing capacities of your Jeep.

Also, Curts warranty requires the use of a stabilization strap for any non-trailer loads such as a bike rack or cargo carrier. Although, it is a good idea to use one, Draw-Tite does not require that you use a stabilization strap.

The tow hook cannot be re-installed once the hitch is installed on the Jeep Compass. The hitch can be used for the same purpose that the tow hook served, but Draw-Tite and Curt do not recommend re-installing the tow hook.

Removing the heat shield is not necessary for the installation of the Curt or Draw-Tite hitch, it is a tip that Curt mentions that may make the installation easier. You will find that on the driver side the heat shield seems to block the inside of the frame rail. Removing the heat shield will make it easier to access that part, but you could also just fold that part of the heat shield out of the way.

You can see in our installation videos that I have attached that the heat shield is still attached for the Curt and Draw-Tite hitch installation.

expert reply by: John H