2016 Jeep Cherokee Towing Capacity
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The 2016 Jeep Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Quick answer
- Max Towing Capacity: 4,500 lbs (with 3.2L V6 and Tow Group)
- Max Payload: 1,000 lbs
- GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 5,500 lbs
- GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): 9,850 lbs (V6), 7,850 lbs (I4)
- Curb Weight: 3,655 to 4,044 lbs
- Hitch Class: Class III
Tow ratings by engine & trim
| Engine | Drivetrain | Trim/Package | Max Tow | Payload |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L I4 | FWD/AWD | All Trims | 2,000 lbs | 1,000 lbs |
| 3.2L V6 | FWD/AWD | All Trims | 2,000 lbs | 1,000 lbs |
| 3.2L V6 | FWD/AWD | Trailer Tow Group | 4,500 lbs | 1,000 lbs |
Tow package contents
The optional Trailer Tow Group for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee includes a Class III receiver hitch, a 4- and 7-pin wiring harness, and an auxiliary transmission oil cooler. Higher trims with the V6 and Tow Group may also include a full-size spare tire and trailer sway control. An integrated trailer brake controller was not an option from the factory and must be installed as an aftermarket accessory.
5th-wheel & gooseneck
As a mid-size SUV, the 2016 Jeep Cherokee is not rated for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of towing are reserved for heavy-duty pickup trucks.
Weight distribution & WDH requirements
For trailers over 2,000 lbs, a weight distribution hitch (WDH) is recommended to improve handling and stability. The maximum tongue weight for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee is 450 lbs with the V6 and Tow Group. A WDH can help distribute the tongue weight more evenly across the axles of the vehicle and trailer.
Real-world towing tips for this vehicle
When towing with a 2016 Jeep Cherokee, it is important to be mindful of the vehicle's limitations. The 4,500-pound maximum is best reserved for short-duration tows on relatively flat surfaces. For longer trips or mountainous terrain, a trailer weight of 3,500-4,000 lbs would be a more comfortable and safer limit. The V6 engine provides adequate power, but the Cherokee's unibody construction and coil-spring suspension can be overwhelmed by excessive trailer weight. Activating the "Sport" mode on the Selec-Terrain system can provide more aggressive throttle response and a reprogrammed shift schedule that holds gears longer, which can be beneficial when towing.
Common towing-related issues
The most common towing-related issue with the 2016 Jeep Cherokee is transmission overheating. While the Tow Group does include an auxiliary transmission cooler, the 9-speed automatic transmission can still run hot when towing heavy loads, especially in high ambient temperatures or on steep grades. Some owners have also reported issues with the rear suspension sagging when towing a trailer with a tongue weight that is close to the maximum. Using a WDH can help mitigate this issue.
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More specs for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2016 Jeep Cherokee Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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