2018 Jeep Cherokee — Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped with the 3.2L V6 and the factory Trailer Tow Group; without that package it’s rated to 2,000 pounds.

Quick answer

• Max tow capacity: 4,500 lb (3.2L V6 + Trailer Tow Group); otherwise 2,000 lb
• Max payload: approximately 900–1,200 lb (varies by trim/drivetrain; verify door‑jamb tire/loading sticker)
• GVWR: approximately 5,050–5,600 lb (varies by configuration)
• GCWR: varies by configuration; confirm in owner’s manual and VIN/door‑jamb labels for your specific vehicle
• Curb weight: approximately 3,655–4,250 lb (FWD I‑4 to 4x4 Trailhawk V6)
• Hitch receiver class: Factory Trailer Tow Group includes a Class III 2‑inch receiver; typical tongue weight limits are 200 lb (2,000‑lb rating) or up to 450 lb (4,500‑lb rating, ~10%)

All published tow ratings for the 2018 Cherokee are generally provided under SAE J2807 when properly equipped.

Tow ratings by engine & trim

Notes:

• “Properly equipped” means the V6 plus the factory Trailer Tow Group. Without it, even V6 models default to 2,000 lb.
• Payload varies by VIN and options; always use the yellow door‑jamb label for your exact number.

Tow package contents

The 2018 Cherokee’s factory Trailer Tow Group typically includes:

• Class III 2‑inch receiver hitch
• 7‑pin and 4‑pin trailer wiring connectors
• Auxiliary transmission oil cooler
• (V6) engine oil cooler/heavy‑duty cooling
• Full‑size spare tire/wheel
• Trailer Sway Control (software feature integrated with stability control; sway control is standard on all Cherokees)

Important: An integrated trailer brake controller is not included from the factory on the Cherokee. If your trailer has electric brakes, you’ll need an aftermarket controller installed and properly wired to the 7‑pin.

5th‑wheel & gooseneck

Not applicable. The 2018 Jeep Cherokee is a unibody crossover and is not rated for fifth‑wheel or gooseneck towing.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

• Tongue weight: Plan for about 10% of trailer weight on the hitch. That’s about 200 lb at the 2,000‑lb rating and up to roughly 450 lb at the 4,500‑lb rating.
• Weight‑distributing hitch (WDH): To maintain stability and front‑axle load, a WDH is recommended for heavier trailers, and may be required by Jeep to access the full 4,500‑lb rating. Check your owner’s manual for specific guidance for your drivetrain and trim.
• Hitch ratings: Verify the sticker on the factory receiver for its weight‑carrying vs weight‑distributing limits before you set up a WDH.

Real‑world towing tips for this vehicle

• Mind payload first: The Cherokee’s payload is modest. Subtract the weight of passengers, cargo, and hitch hardware from the yellow door‑jamb payload number to ensure you stay under limits while also keeping tongue weight in the safe 10–15% range.
• Use trailer brakes: With trailers over ~1,500–2,000 lb (and per your state law), use functional electric brakes and a quality aftermarket controller.
• Manage heat: The 9‑speed automatic can generate heat on grades. The tow package’s coolers help; downshift manually on long climbs/descents and avoid lugging in high gears.
• Load distribution: Keep heavy cargo low and near the trailer axle(s). Use a WDH and friction sway control with boxy or longer trailers to reduce sway.
• Tires and pressure: Run at or near the Cherokee’s door‑label pressures when towing. Ensure the trailer’s tires are load‑rated and inflated to sidewall spec.
• Mirrors and visibility: Add clip‑on tow mirrors if your trailer is wider than the Cherokee’s body.

Common towing‑related issues

• Shift hunting or high trans temps when overloaded or with excessive aerodynamic drag; reduce speed, downshift, and verify trailer weight and tongue setup.
• Rear suspension squat due to tongue weight near the limit; a properly sized WDH and correct spring bar tension usually restore stance and steering feel.
• Electrical gremlins at the 7‑pin/4‑pin from corrosion or poor grounds; use dielectric grease and proper mounting to avoid intermittent lighting/brake faults.
• Brake fade on long descents if relying on Cherokee brakes to slow a heavy trailer; ensure trailer brakes are adjusted and functioning, and use lower gears for engine braking.

About SAE J2807

Jeep’s published 4,500‑lb maximum for the 2018 Cherokee (V6 with Trailer Tow Group) is generally in line with SAE J2807 procedures. If you encounter older, non‑SAE figures online, defer to the owner’s manual and your vehicle’s certification labels. When in doubt, use the most conservative rating.

Because GVWR, GCWR, payload, and hitch limits vary by VIN and options, always confirm on the door‑jamb stickers and in the owner’s manual before towing. When you’re ready to set up or service your hitch, brakes, or wiring, find a trusted shop on Repairius.