2020 Jeep Gladiator Towing Capacity & Payload

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 7,650 pounds
• Max Payload: 1,700 pounds
• GVWR: 6,250 pounds
• GCWR: 12,000 pounds
• Curb Weight: 4,650 to 5,072 pounds
• Hitch Class: Class IV receiver (with Max Tow Package)

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator can tow up to 7,650 pounds, making it a highly capable mid-size truck for a variety of towing needs.

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is powered by a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine. Towing capacity can vary based on trim, drivetrain, and the presence of the Max Tow Package. All ratings below are SAE J2807 compliant.

Note: Manual transmission equipped Gladiators typically have a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds. Always check your specific vehicle's door jamb sticker for precise ratings.

Tow Package Contents

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator offers a "Max Tow Package" (AHX) which is crucial for achieving its maximum towing capabilities. This package typically includes:

• Class IV Receiver Hitch: A heavy-duty hitch designed for higher tongue weights and trailer sizes.
• Trailer Hitch Zoom: An enhanced rearview camera feature that allows for easier trailer hook-up.
• Heavy-Duty Engine Cooling: Helps prevent overheating when towing heavy loads.
• 240-Amp Alternator: Provides additional power for trailer accessories.
• Wider fender flares: Accommodate larger tires and improve cooling.

While the Max Tow Package significantly enhances towing, an integrated trailer brake controller is not included and must be purchased and installed separately if your trailer requires it. Trailer sway control is an important safety feature that is standard on all 2020 Jeep Gladiator models.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is a mid-size pickup truck and is not designed for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of hitches are typically reserved for heavy-duty full-size trucks due to their increased chassis strength, payload capacity, and towing ratings.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

For trailers weighing over 5,000 pounds, a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is generally recommended for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. A WDH helps distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across the tow vehicle's and trailer's axles, improving stability, braking performance, and reducing sag. Always consult your owner's manual for specific WDH requirements and proper setup procedures. The maximum tongue weight for the Gladiator with the Max Tow Package is 765 pounds, which can be managed more effectively with a WDH.

Real-World Towing Tips for This Vehicle

• Know Your Weights: Before every trip, know the combined weight of your trailer and its cargo. Never exceed the Gladiator's maximum towing capacity, GVWR, or GCWR.
• Proper Loading: Load your trailer with about 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer to ensure proper tongue weight (typically 10-15% of the total trailer weight). Improper loading can lead to dangerous trailer sway.
• Tire Pressure: Ensure both your Gladiator's and your trailer's tires are inflated to the recommended pressures for towing, as found in your owner's manual and on the tire sidewalls.
• Brake Controller: If your trailer has electric brakes, a properly installed and adjusted trailer brake controller is essential for safe stopping. This is not included in the Max Tow Package.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your Gladiator, especially brakes, tires, and transmission, is crucial when frequently towing.
• Take it Easy: Accelerate and brake gradually. Allow for longer stopping distances and reduce your speed, especially on inclines, declines, and in adverse weather conditions.

Common Towing-Related Issues

• Trailer Sway: This can be caused by improper loading, excessive speed, or strong winds. The Gladiator's standard trailer sway control system helps mitigate this, but proper trailer setup is key.
• Overheating: While the Max Tow Package includes heavy-duty engine cooling, extreme conditions or prolonged heavy towing can still stress the cooling system. Monitor your temperature gauges.
• Transmission Strain: Towing places additional strain on the transmission. Ensure regular transmission fluid changes according to your service schedule.
• Tire Wear: Increased weight from towing can accelerate tire wear, especially if tire pressures are not maintained correctly.

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