The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo’s maximum tow capacity reaches 6,200 pounds when equipped with the factory tow package. Understanding the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity is essential for anyone planning to haul a trailer, boat, or camper. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about towing with this popular SUV.
Many drivers choose the Grand Cherokee Laredo for its balance of comfort and capability. But not every model can pull the same weight. The exact figure depends on your engine choice, drivetrain, and optional equipment. Let’s get into the details.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Tow Capacity
The base Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity starts at 3,500 pounds for the standard V6 engine without the factory tow package. However, adding the optional Trailer Tow Group IV boosts this number significantly. With the tow package, the V6 Laredo can handle up to 6,200 pounds. That’s a big jump for a mid-size SUV.
If you opt for the V8 engine in the Laredo, the story changes. The 5.7-liter HEMI V8, available on higher trims but sometimes found in Laredo models with the right options, can tow up to 7,200 pounds. But for the standard Laredo V6, 6,200 pounds is the ceiling.
Always check your specific vehicle’s door jamb sticker and owner’s manual. The tow capacity can vary based on model year and installed options. For example, a 2021 Laredo with the tow package might have slightly different ratings than a 2018 model.
Engine Options And Their Tow Ratings
The Grand Cherokee Laredo typically comes with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This engine produces 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Without the tow package, it’s rated for 3,500 pounds. With the tow package, it jumps to 6,200 pounds.
Some Laredo models, especially later years, might offer the 5.7-liter V8 as an option. This engine makes 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Its tow rating is 7,200 pounds regardless of the tow package, though the package is still recommended for safety.
- 3.6L V6 without tow package: 3,500 pounds
- 3.6L V6 with tow package: 6,200 pounds
- 5.7L V8 (if equipped): 7,200 pounds
Remember that these figures are for the Laredo trim specifically. Other trims like the Limited or Overland may have different ratings due to weight differences. The Laredo is the lightest trim, which helps its tow capacity.
What The Factory Tow Package Includes
To achieve the maximum Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity, you need the factory-installed Trailer Tow Group IV. This package adds several key components. First, it includes a Class IV receiver hitch rated for 6,200 pounds. Second, it adds a 7-pin wiring harness for trailer lights and brakes.
The package also includes a heavy-duty engine cooling system. This prevents overheating when pulling heavy loads up long grades. Additionally, you get a full-size spare tire, which is important for long trips. The tow package also includes a trailer sway control system that helps keep your rig stable.
If your Laredo didn’t come with this package from the factory, you can add an aftermarket hitch. But the tow capacity will likely remain at 3,500 pounds. The factory package includes structural reinforcements that aftermarket kits often miss.
Checking If Your Laredo Has The Tow Package
Look for the tow hooks on the front bumper. If you see them, that’s a good sign. Check the rear bumper for a hitch receiver. Open the tailgate and look for the 7-pin connector inside the cargo area. Finally, check your window sticker or build sheet online using your VIN.
You can also look under the hood. The tow package includes a larger radiator and an engine oil cooler. If you see these components, you likely have the full package. If unsure, call a Jeep dealer with your VIN.
Factors That Affect Your Actual Tow Capacity
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity listed in the brochure is the maximum. Your actual capacity may be lower. Several factors reduce how much you can safely pull. The most important is the weight of passengers and cargo inside the vehicle.
Every pound you add to the SUV reduces the available payload. Payload includes people, luggage, and the tongue weight of the trailer. Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer exerts on the hitch. It should be 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Maximum total weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and tongue weight
- Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Maximum weight of the vehicle and trailer together
- Payload: Maximum weight of passengers and cargo inside the SUV
For example, if your Laredo has a GVWR of 6,500 pounds and the vehicle itself weighs 4,800 pounds, you have 1,700 pounds of payload. Subtract the weight of passengers and cargo. What remains is the maximum tongue weight you can handle.
Climate also matters. Towing at high altitudes reduces engine power. Hot weather can cause overheating. Always reduce your towed weight by 2% for every 1,000 feet above sea level. So at 5,000 feet, you should tow no more than 90% of the rated capacity.
Trailer Weight Terminology
Understanding trailer weight terms helps you stay safe. Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is the total weight of the trailer fully loaded. Dry weight is the trailer empty, without cargo, water, or propane. Never rely on dry weight for calculations.
Tongue weight is critical. For a 6,200-pound trailer, tongue weight should be 620 to 930 pounds. If your Laredo’s payload is 1,200 pounds, and you have 400 pounds of passengers and gear, you have 800 pounds left for tongue weight. That’s within range.
Always weigh your fully loaded trailer at a public scale. Many truck stops have scales for a small fee. This gives you the real GTW. Then calculate tongue weight using a bathroom scale and a piece of pipe.
How To Safely Tow With Your Grand Cherokee Laredo
Reaching the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity requires proper preparation. Start by checking your tire pressure. Inflate rear tires to the maximum pressure listed on the sidewall. This prevents overheating and blowouts.
Adjust your mirrors. The factory mirrors may not give enough visibility with a wide trailer. Consider adding aftermarket tow mirrors or clip-on extensions. You need to see past the trailer on both sides.
- Connect the trailer to the hitch. Make sure the coupler is fully seated and the pin is locked.
- Cross the safety chains under the hitch. This catches the trailer if it detaches.
- Connect the 7-pin wiring harness. Test all lights: turn signals, brake lights, and running lights.
- Check the trailer brakes if equipped. Most trailers over 1,500 pounds need brakes.
- Verify the breakaway switch is connected. This applies trailer brakes if it detaches.
Before driving, do a walk-around. Check that the trailer is level. The hitch ball should be at the same height as the trailer coupler. If the trailer tilts forward or backward, adjust the hitch height.
Drive slowly and smoothly. Avoid sudden stops or sharp turns. Allow extra distance for braking. Your stopping distance will double or triple with a heavy trailer. Downshift on steep grades to save your brakes.
Weight Distribution Hitches
For trailers over 5,000 pounds, consider a weight distribution hitch. This system uses spring bars to transfer some tongue weight to the trailer axles and the front axle of the SUV. It improves steering and stability.
A weight distribution hitch is especially important for the Grand Cherokee Laredo. The SUV has a relatively short wheelbase. Without weight distribution, the rear end can sag, reducing front tire traction. This makes steering feel light and unsafe.
Many tow packages include a trailer sway control system. But a weight distribution hitch with integrated sway control is even better. It physically dampens sway rather than just applying brakes.
Common Towing Mistakes To Avoid
One common mistake is exceeding the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity. Even by a few hundred pounds, this overloads the transmission, brakes, and suspension. It also voids your warranty if an accident occurs.
Another mistake is ignoring the payload limit. People often fill the SUV with gear and passengers, then add a heavy trailer. The combined weight exceeds the GVWR. This overloads the tires and suspension.
- Overloading the trailer itself. Distribute weight evenly, with 60% in the front half.
- Forgetting to lock the hitch pin. Always double-check before driving.
- Using a hitch ball that’s too small or too large. Match the ball size to the coupler.
- Not checking trailer tire pressure. Trailer tires need inflation too.
Also, don’t tow in overdrive. Use a lower gear to keep the engine in its power band. This reduces transmission heat and improves fuel economy. Most modern automatics have a tow/haul mode that does this automatically.
Finally, don’t rush. Towing takes patience. Plan your route to avoid steep grades, tight turns, and low bridges. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive safely.
Model Year Differences In Tow Capacity
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity has remained fairly consistent across model years. The 2014-2021 models all share the same basic ratings. The V6 with tow package is 6,200 pounds. The V8 is 7,200 pounds.
However, some early models (2011-2013) had slightly lower ratings. The 2011 Laredo V6 with tow package was rated at 5,000 pounds. Jeep increased it to 6,200 pounds starting in 2014 with the updated Pentastar engine.
For the 2022 and newer models, the ratings are similar. The Laredo still uses the same V6 engine. The tow package remains an option. Always verify with the specific year’s owner’s manual.
Diesel Engine Option
Some Grand Cherokee Laredo models offered the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6. This engine produces 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Its tow rating is 7,400 pounds with the tow package. That’s higher than the V8.
The diesel engine was available from 2014 to 2020. It offers excellent fuel economy while towing. But it’s rare in the Laredo trim. Most diesel Grand Cherokees are higher trims like the Limited or Overland.
If you find a diesel Laredo, it’s a great towing machine. The torque makes pulling heavy loads feel effortless. Just be aware of diesel maintenance costs and the need for diesel exhaust fluid.
Aftermarket Upgrades For Better Towing
Even if your Laredo has the factory tow package, you can improve towing performance. Upgrading the transmission cooler helps prevent overheating. A larger cooler is available from aftermarket suppliers.
Adding a trailer brake controller is essential for trailers over 3,000 pounds. The factory wiring includes a connector for an aftermarket controller. You can mount it under the dash for easy access.
Consider upgrading the rear suspension. Air springs or helper springs reduce sag when towing. They also improve ride quality when not towing. Many owners install Firestone or Air Lift kits.
- Transmission cooler upgrade: $150-$300
- Trailer brake controller: $100-$250
- Air springs: $300-$600
- Weight distribution hitch: $300-$800
These upgrades don’t increase your Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity. But they make towing safer and more comfortable. Always stay within the manufacturer’s limits.
Real-World Towing Experiences
Many owners report that the Laredo tows well up to its rated capacity. A 5,000-pound travel trailer is a comfortable load. The V6 has enough power for highway cruising, though it works hard on steep hills.
One owner tows a 6,000-pound boat with their 2018 Laredo. They use a weight distribution hitch and report stable handling. Fuel economy drops to about 10-12 mpg while towing. That’s normal for a heavy load.
Another owner tows a 4,500-pound utility trailer with ATVs. They say the Laredo handles it easily. The only issue is rear sag, which they fixed with air springs. They recommend the tow package for anyone planning regular towing.
Some owners have towed near the 6,200-pound limit. They advise keeping speeds under 65 mph. At higher speeds, wind from passing trucks can cause sway. The trailer sway control helps, but it’s not a substitute for careful driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the towing capacity of a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo V6?
The towing capacity of a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo V6 is 3,500 pounds without the tow package and 6,200 pounds with the factory tow package. Always check your specific vehicle.
Can a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow a boat?
Yes, a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo can tow a boat. With the tow package, it can handle boats up to 6,200 pounds. For example, a 20-foot center console boat typically weighs 3,000-4,000 pounds.
Does the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo come with a tow hitch?
Not all Laredo models come with a tow hitch. It’s part of the optional Trailer Tow Group IV. Without this package, the vehicle has no hitch receiver. You can add an aftermarket hitch, but the tow capacity remains 3,500 pounds.
What is the payload capacity of a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo?
The payload capacity of a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo varies by model year and options. It typically ranges from 1,100 to 1,400 pounds. Check the door jamb sticker for your specific vehicle’s payload.
Can I increase the towing capacity of my Grand Cherokee Laredo?
No, you cannot increase the towing capacity of your Grand Cherokee Laredo beyond the factory rating. The capacity is determined by the vehicle’s structure, brakes, and cooling system. Aftermarket upgrades cannot change the legal limit.
Final Thoughts On Towing With The Laredo
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo tow capacity of 6,200 pounds makes it a capable mid-size SUV for towing. It’s perfect for small to medium travel trailers, boats, and utility trailers. The key is having the factory tow package and understanding your payload limits.
Before you hook up, do your homework. Weigh your trailer, check your vehicle’s ratings, and equip it properly. With the right setup, the Laredo is a reliable tow vehicle for weekend adventures. Just remember to drive conservatively and maintain your vehicle regularly.
If you’re shopping for a used Laredo, prioritize one with the tow package. It’s worth the extra cost for the added capability. And if you already own one without it, consider adding a weight distribution hitch for safer towing at lower weights.
Towing with the Grand Cherokee Laredo is a rewarding experience. It combines everyday drivability with real utility. Whether you’re hauling a camper to the mountains or a boat to the lake, this SUV can handle the job. Just stay within its limits and you’ll enjoy many miles of safe towing.