2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee — Towing Capacity & Payload

Quick answer

• How much can it tow? The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,400 pounds when properly equipped (SAE J2807).
• Max payload: roughly 1,050–1,370 lb depending on trim/options — verify your driver-door certification label.
• GVWR: approximately 6,000–6,800 lb (varies by engine/4x4 and options).
• GCWR: varies by configuration; check your owner’s manual and door-jamb/VIN-specific data for the exact figure.
• Curb weight: about 4,500–5,400 lb depending on engine/trim.
• Factory hitch: Trailer Tow Group IV adds a Class IV 2-inch receiver and 4/7‑pin wiring. Weight-carrying typically 5,000 lb/500 lb tongue; with a weight-distributing hitch, ratings rise to the vehicle’s max (tongue weight commonly 10% of trailer — about 620–740 lb at max tow). Always follow the receiver label and owner’s manual.

Tow ratings by engine & trim

Notes:

• Ratings above reflect SAE J2807 methodology for 2015. If you’re comparing to older brochures or non‑J2807 sources, numbers may differ.
• Your exact payload and tow rating are VIN- and option-dependent. Always confirm on the tire/loading label and in the owner’s manual.

Tow package contents

For 2015, the Trailer Tow Group IV typically includes:

• Class IV 2-inch receiver hitch
• 4- and 7-pin wiring harness
• Heavy-duty engine cooling and an auxiliary transmission oil cooler
• Rear load‑leveling (self‑leveling) shocks on many trims
• Full-size spare tire and related hardware
• Electronic stability control with built-in trailer sway control (software-based)

Important: A factory-integrated trailer brake controller was not commonly included on 2015 Grand Cherokee. Most owners add an aftermarket proportional brake controller to use with electric trailer brakes.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The Grand Cherokee is an SUV with a rear receiver; it is not rated for 5th‑wheel or gooseneck towing. Use a conventional weight-carrying or weight-distributing hitch only, per the owner’s manual.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

• Use a weight-distributing hitch (WDH) for heavier conventional trailers. Jeep’s guidance generally calls for a WDH when trailer weight exceeds about 5,000 lb or when tongue weight approaches receiver limits.
• Target tongue weight near 10% of the loaded trailer weight (e.g., ~620–740 lb at max tow), unless your trailer manufacturer specifies otherwise.
• Never exceed: the receiver label ratings (WC/WD), the vehicle’s GVWR, rear GAWR, or the tire load ratings.
• After setting up a WDH, re-check headlight aim and measure front/rear fender heights to confirm proper weight transfer.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Engine choice: For trailers over ~5,000 lb, the 5.7L HEMI V8 or 3.0L EcoDiesel provide the most margin. The 3.6L V6 is fine for lighter boats/utility campers with a WDH when near its upper limit.
• Payload matters: Tongue weight plus passengers, cargo, and accessories all count against payload. Many Grand Cherokees have 1,100–1,300 lb payload; a 650–750 lb tongue leaves limited capacity for people/gear.
• Cooling and gearing: Use the tow package for its added cooling. On grades, use manual gear selection to hold lower gears for engine braking and to keep transmission temps in check. Disable “Eco” mode when towing.
• Tires and pressures: Run door‑jamb pressures or slightly higher (within spec) when loaded. Frequent towers often choose LT tires for improved stability; ensure load index meets or exceeds GAWR.
• Brake controller: Install a quality proportional controller and test gain settings in a parking lot before a trip.
• Pre-trip checks: Verify hitch height/level, torque lug nuts and hitch ball, test lights and trailer brakes, secure the breakaway cable, and carry a full-size spare for the trailer.

Common towing-related issues

• Rear sag/porpoising when near max tongue weight if not equipped with load‑leveling shocks — a WDH typically cures this.
• Transmission temperature rise on long grades if towing at the limit without the tow package — monitor temps and downshift early.
• Insufficient payload once passengers/cargo are added — confirm the payload on your door label and plan accordingly.
• No factory brake controller — aftermarket controllers must be wired correctly to the 7‑pin; use a dedicated fused circuit and clean grounds.
• Diesel-specific: Keep DEF levels up and fuel filters fresh; watch for reduced-power messages if maintenance is overdue.

SAE J2807 note: For 2015, Jeep’s published Grand Cherokee tow ratings align with SAE J2807. Earlier, non‑J2807 methods used by some sources may show different numbers; always default to your own manual/labels.

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