2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee can tow a maximum of 7,400 pounds when properly equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 or 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine and the factory Trailer Tow Group IV package. Known for its blend of off-road prowess and on-road comfort, the 2017 Grand Cherokee is also a highly capable mid-size SUV for towing boats, campers, and utility trailers. However, to safely maximize its hauling potential, you need to understand how different engines and configurations affect its ratings.

Below is everything you need to know about the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s towing capabilities, strictly adhering to SAE J2807 standards. Always remember to check your specific vehicle's door-jamb sticker, as added options can reduce your actual payload and towing limits.

Quick answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 7,400 lbs (with 5.7L V8 or 3.0L EcoDiesel RWD).
• Max Payload Capacity: Up to 1,440 lbs (varies significantly by trim and 4WD/RWD configuration).
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): Up to 6,500 lbs.
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): Up to 12,850 lbs (depending on powertrain).
• Curb Weight: 4,545 lbs (Base V6 RWD) to 5,104 lbs (SRT/Diesel 4WD).
• Hitch Class: Class IV (when equipped with the Trailer Tow Group IV package); maximum tongue weight is 740 lbs.

Tow ratings by engine & trim

Your actual towing capacity largely depends on the engine under the hood and whether your Grand Cherokee is 2WD (RWD) or 4WD. Without the factory tow package, capacity is generally limited to 3,500 lbs across all models.

Note: The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee uses SAE J2807 testing criteria, meaning these numbers reflect rigorous real-world testing conditions involving steep grades and extreme temperatures.

Tow package contents

To reach capacities over 3,500 lbs, your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee must have the Trailer Tow Group IV package. This package is optional on most trims and standard on models like the Trailhawk. It includes crucial hardware upgrades:

• Class IV Receiver Hitch: Securely integrated into the rear bumper fascia.
• 7-Pin and 4-Pin Wiring Harness: Ready to connect to any standard trailer light and brake setup.
• Heavy-Duty Engine Cooling: Larger radiator or upgraded cooling fans to handle the extra thermal load of heavy towing (applicable to certain engines).
• Rear Load-Leveling Suspension: Standard on trims like the Overland and Summit, or included in the tow package for others, helping prevent rear-end sag.
• Full-Size Spare Tire: Essential in case of a blowout while hauling.

Note on Brake Controllers: Unlike heavy-duty trucks, the 2017 Grand Cherokee does not come with a factory integrated trailer brake controller. You will need to install an aftermarket electronic brake controller (the vehicle comes pre-wired with a plug under the dash).

5th-wheel & gooseneck

Because the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size unibody SUV and not a heavy-duty pickup truck, it is not compatible with 5th-wheel or gooseneck hitches. It is strictly designed for conventional bumper-pull towing.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

Jeep recommends the use of a Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) for any trailer weighing over 3,500 pounds.

• Why it matters: A WDH leverages spring bars to distribute the tongue weight of the trailer evenly across the front and rear axles of the Grand Cherokee, as well as the trailer axles.
• Sway Control: When towing heavier loads, combining your WDH with a friction sway control device (or utilizing the Grand Cherokee's electronic Trailer Sway Control, which uses the ESC system to apply individual brakes if sway is detected) is highly recommended for highway stability.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Monitor your payload: Tongue weight (typically 10-15% of your trailer weight) counts directly against your Grand Cherokee’s payload capacity. If you have 740 lbs of tongue weight on a fully loaded EcoDiesel, you might only have 500 lbs left for passengers and cargo inside the SUV.
• Use the right drive mode: If your Grand Cherokee is equipped with the Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II 4WD systems, utilize the "Auto" setting for general towing, or "Tow" mode if equipped on the SRT, which alters transmission shift points to hold gears longer and prevent hunting on hills.
• Install a brake controller: Since it isn't included from the factory, buying a quality aftermarket proportional brake controller (like a Tekonsha Prodigy) is a must for trailers over 2,000 lbs.
• Watch the air suspension: If you have the Quadra-Lift air suspension, be aware of its behavior when hooking up a WDH. Consult your owner's manual for the specific procedure to disable the auto-leveling temporarily while tensioning your spring bars.

Common towing-related issues

• Overheating on long grades: Even with the heavy-duty cooling package, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 can run hot if pushed to its maximum 6,200 lb limit up steep, sustained inclines in the summer. Monitor your EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center) gauges closely.
• Air suspension faults: The Quadra-Lift system is excellent for load-leveling, but the compressor can wear out over time, especially if frequently overworked by heavy tongue weights without a proper WDH.
• Brake wear: The stock brakes on non-SRT models are adequate but can wear rapidly if you tow frequently without properly adjusted trailer brakes.

Whether you are hooking up a travel trailer for a weekend getaway or dragging a boat to the lake, making sure your Jeep is in top mechanical shape is critical. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.