Does Putting 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk into Tow Mode Drain Vehicle Battery

Published 03/23/2023

Question:

We have a 2020 Jeep Cherokee trailhawk that we flat tow My question is when we stop at a campground to stay, do we need to undo the tow mode to prevent battery drain overnight when parked? In other words, does it drain battery when in tow mode even when parked ? I realize the braking system needs to be unplugged. This question is just about tow mode battery drain when parked Thank you for your help

asked by: Diane F

Expert Reply:

When you put your 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk in to tow mode it does not drain the battery. There would be no need to undue that once you are parked. Here's all of the steps for putting it into tow mode:
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on level ground, and shift the transmission to park.
2. Turn the engine off.
3. Turn the ignition to the on/run mode, but do not start the engine.
4. Press and hold the brake pedal.
5. Shift the transmission into neutral.
6. Using a ballpoint pen or similar object, push and hold the recessed neutral (N) button (located by the selector switch) for four seconds. The light behind the N symbol will blink, indicating shift in progress. The light will stop blinking (stay on solid) when the shift to neutral (N) is complete.
7. After the shift is completed and the neutral (N) light stays on, release the neutral (N) button.
8. Start the engine.
9. Release the parking brake.
10. Shift the transmission into reverse.
11. Release the brake pedal for five seconds and ensure that there is no vehicle movement.
12. Shift the transmission to neutral.
13. Apply the parking brake
14. Shift the transmission into park, turn the engine off, and remove the key fob.
15. Attach the vehicle to the tow vehicle using a suitable tow bar.
16. Turn the ignition to the on/run mode, but do not start the engine.
17. Press and hold the brake pedal.
18. Release the parking brake.
19. Turn the ignition off, remove the key fob, and release the brake pedal.