Can Jeep Wrangler Tow 5000 LBS? [Find Out The Truth]

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When it comes to towing capacity, a Jeep Wrangler can typically handle between 2,000 and 3,500 pounds. However, this can vary based on the model and trim level. While some Wranglers can tow up to 5,000 pounds for short distances, it is not recommended due to safety concerns.

The capability of your Jeep Wrangler to pull a trailer or camper is the most important specification to consider.

In that case, can a Jeep Wrangler tow 5,000 pounds? In short, it does not. Jeep Wranglers typically have a towing capacity between 2,000 and 3,500 pounds. But there are plenty of cases where it’s higher than that.

Towing capability can vary greatly based on the model, let alone combinations, as I discussed in my article on what kind of camper a Jeep Wrangler could tow. Read further to know more

Can Jeep Wrangler Tow 5000 LBS? (Explained)

The Jeep Wrangler’s transmission and engine can tow up to 3,500 pounds and are also used in other vehicles. The maximum trailer weight might vary from one make and model to another and even across different trim levels. 

Furthermore, each Jeep Wrangler model trim is tailored to meet the needs of a certain market. Therefore, we provide varying towing capacities depending on the version you choose.

The Jeep Wrangler can pull up to around 5,000 pounds for short distances. However, doing so is not only risky but also not recommended. 

Moreover, if you need to transport it around your backyard or house that weighs up to around 5,000 pounds, your Wrangler can do it with ease, such as a kayak or a travel trailer. 

Nevertheless, a Wrangler shouldn’t be your first choice if you need to pull more than 5,000 pounds on the road. A Jeep Gladiator, for instance, would be ideal for such a mission. That is because a Jeep Gladiator can securely tow up to 7,650 pounds.

Can-Jeep-Wrangler-Tow-5000-LBS

Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacities

It would be hard to compile a comprehensive list of Jeep Wrangler configurations here. Towing capacity is consistent throughout Jeep Wrangler variants, which is a useful feature. The ability to tow a trailer is typically not affected by changes in trim level. 

For your convenience, we have provided both capacities (with brake and without brake) of the car,  so you may see where your specific model falls.

ModelCapacity Without  Brake (lbs)Capacity With Brake(lbs)
Wrangler TJ 1997 – 20071,6002,000
Wrangler TJ 2008 – 20211,6003,500

Why Does The Jeep Wrangler Have A Low Towing Capacity?

Indeed, some Jeep Wrangler vehicles could only tow 2000 pounds, despite the reliability and off-road capabilities they’re known for. The limited towing capability of the Wrangler is a result of its heavy weight, short wheelbase, and other features, as well as its boxy body style and underpowered engine. 

However, we can’t hold it against them; wranglers are designed for off-roading and other harsh driving situations. Therefore, towing is not its primary function.

Is It Possible To Raise A Jeep’s Towing Capacity?

If your Jeep Wrangler’s towing capacity leaves you wanting, there is good news. You have control over the situation and it’s almost too good to be true. The Jeep Wrangler’s ability to tow can be improved.

Some of the procedures may appear complicated, but they’re fairly easy and won’t harm your Jeep Wrangler in the slightest. The finest ways to improve the Jeep Wrangler‘s towing capability are outlined below.

Changing the Car’s Software

In today’s Jeep Wranglers, there is an engine control unit (ECU) electronic control unit. This electronic component is used for the management and control of the vehicle’s electronic systems.

Gaining more power and better handling is possible by hiring an experienced programmer to inspect and re-program this unit. As a result, you’ll have more weight that you can pull behind your vehicle. 

However, it is crucial to choose a seasoned expert to perform the reprogramming. You don’t want your modified vehicle to end up having more issues than it did before.

Improve and alter the suspension

Your Jeep Wrangler’s suspension aids in weight distribution, shifting more of the vehicle’s mass toward the front for better towing. Just what a new suspension system would do. A pricey suspension upgrade is something else to keep in mind.

Aside from the obvious reduction in your Jeep Wrangler’s towing capacity, this modification may also have unintended consequences for other parts of your vehicle. Vehicle efficiency is typically improved as a result of this.

Most automotive experts would tell you not to modify your vehicle in any way to boost the towing capability. Bad workmanship might cause frustrating issues with your Jeep Wrangler

In that sense, don’t give in to the temptation of increasing your Jeep Wrangler’s towing capability unless necessary.

Final Thoughts

Although a 3,500 lbslbs towing capacbility mayight not sound like much, it actually leaves you with plenty of room for toy haulers or regular trailers, so long as you aren’t towing whole campsites.

But, can Jeep Wrangler tow 5000 LBS? Yes, however, your Jeep Wrangler’s towing capacity may surpriseamaze you the best part is that there are several situations in which it can pull which we have mentioned in our article.

Written By

  • Clifford Atiyeh

    Clifford Atiyeh is an esteemed independent journalist with a keen expertise in the automotive sector. As a contributing editor for Car and Driver, he covers a broad range of topics including business, government, and litigation news within the industry. With over two decades of experience, Clifford’s bylines have graced numerous prestigious media outlets. His passion for storytelling is matched by his skill in photography, further enriching his journalistic endeavors. As the president of the New England Motor Press Association, Clifford plays a pivotal role in the automotive journalism community. His insights and analyses are also featured on platforms such as Forbes, showcasing his versatility and depth of knowledge.

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