When you see a Jeep Wrangler on the road, you probably imagine adventures, tough trails, and outdoor fun. But sometimes, you might need your Wrangler for a different job—towing a car.
Maybe you want to help a friend, move a project vehicle, or bring a small car on your next road trip. But can a Jeep Wrangler really tow a car safely and legally?
This guide gives you clear answers, practical tips, and details that even some Jeep owners miss.
Understanding Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity
Every vehicle has a towing capacity, which is the maximum weight it can pull safely. For the Jeep Wrangler, this number depends on the year, engine, and configuration.
| Model | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) | Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Wrangler Sport (2-door) | 2,000 | 3.6L V6 |
| Wrangler Unlimited (4-door) | 3,500 | 3.6L V6 |
| Wrangler 4xe | 3,500 | 2.0L Turbo Hybrid |
Most 2-door Wranglers can tow up to 2,000 pounds, while 4-door models can handle up to 3,500 pounds. That’s enough for many small trailers, but not all cars. Always check your Wrangler’s manual for the exact number.
Can You Tow A Car With A Jeep Wrangler?
The short answer: sometimes. It depends on the weight of the car, the trailer, and how you plan to tow.
- Weight Check: Most compact cars weigh between 2,500 and 3,000 pounds. Add the weight of a car trailer—often 1,500 pounds or more—and you’re at or over the Wrangler’s limit.
- Type of Towing: Flat towing (all four wheels on the ground) might seem easy, but not all cars can be flat towed. Using a tow dolly or a car hauler trailer adds extra weight.
- Braking Laws: In many states, trailers over 1,500 pounds must have their own brakes. Your Jeep’s brakes are not designed to stop much more.
Here’s a quick comparison of common vehicle weights:
| Vehicle | Approx. Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|
| Toyota Yaris | 2,400 |
| Honda Civic | 2,800 |
| Ford Focus | 2,950 |
| Small Trailer | 1,500 |
If you try to tow a compact car with a 4-door Wrangler, you’re close to the limit—sometimes over it. Towing a larger car or SUV is not safe or recommended.
Key Factors To Consider Before Towing
Before you hitch up, there are important things to check.
1. Calculate Total Weight
Add the weight of:
- The car you want to tow
- The trailer or dolly
- Any extra gear
The total should never be more than your Wrangler’s towing limit. Many people forget to include the trailer’s weight, which can lead to dangerous situations.
2. Trailer Hitch And Gear
You need a Class III hitch for most car trailers. Make sure the hitch is installed correctly and rated for your load.
3. Braking And Control
Your Wrangler’s brakes are designed for the Jeep, not for stopping another car and trailer. For loads over 1,500 pounds, use a trailer with its own brakes.
4. Transmission And Cooling
Towing puts extra stress on your engine and transmission. If you tow close to the max, consider a transmission cooler and check your fluids often. Overheating is a common problem even on short trips.
Practical Towing Tips For Jeep Wrangler Owners
Here are some tips that make a big difference, especially if you’re new to towing:
- Practice driving with the trailer empty first. Wranglers are short and can feel unstable when towing.
- Keep your speed lower than usual. The Wrangler’s wheelbase is not long, so swaying can start easily.
- Use lower gears on hills. The V6 engine does well, but high speeds can heat up your transmission.
- Allow extra stopping distance. Braking with a trailer takes much more room.
- Check all connections, lights, and safety chains before every trip.
Owners often forget to double-check the trailer’s tongue weight—the downward force the trailer puts on the hitch. Too much or too little can make the Jeep handle poorly.
Common Mistakes When Towing With A Wrangler
Even experienced drivers make errors. Here are mistakes to avoid:
- Ignoring the trailer’s weight. Many focus only on the car, not the extra weight of the trailer itself.
- Overloading the Wrangler. Towing above the limit can damage your Jeep’s suspension, frame, and transmission.
- Not using trailer brakes. Relying only on Jeep brakes is risky and often illegal.
- Skipping safety checks. Failing to check hitches, chains, and lights leads to accidents.
- Flat towing the wrong car. Some cars can’t be towed with all wheels on the ground—this can ruin the transmission.
Is It Worth Towing A Car With A Wrangler?
A Jeep Wrangler can tow some cars, but it’s not ideal for heavy loads or long distances. If you need to move a vehicle often, consider renting a larger truck or using a professional towing service. For short moves with a small car and the right trailer, your Wrangler can do the job—just stay within the limits.
It’s also smart to check local laws. Some states have strict rules about towing weights, speed limits, and equipment. You can find detailed towing guides on the NHTSA website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Tow An Automatic Car With My Jeep Wrangler?
Yes, but only if the car is designed for flat towing or is on a trailer. Many automatic cars are not safe to tow with wheels on the ground—check the car’s manual.
What Is The Safest Speed For Towing A Car With A Wrangler?
Keep speeds under 55 mph. Wranglers have a short wheelbase and can sway at higher speeds, especially with a heavy trailer.
Do I Need A Brake Controller For Towing A Car?
If your trailer has electric brakes, you need a brake controller installed in your Jeep. It’s required by law in most states for trailers over 1,500 pounds.
Can I Tow An Suv Or Truck With A Wrangler?
No, most SUVs and trucks are too heavy. Even a mid-size SUV usually exceeds the Wrangler’s towing capacity. Stick to small cars or lighter loads.
Will Towing Damage My Jeep Wrangler?
If you stay within the towing limits and use the right gear, your Wrangler will be fine. Overloading or skipping maintenance can cause serious damage to the transmission, brakes, or frame.
Towing a car with a Jeep Wrangler is possible, but it demands careful planning and respect for the vehicle’s limits. Always put safety first, and when in doubt, choose a safer, stronger tow vehicle for bigger jobs.
