How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a Jeep Wrangler JK

Installing a trailer hitch on a Jeep Wrangler JK (2007 and up) enables the towing of campers, utility trailers, and equipment as well as the use of hitch receiver accessories such as hitch racks and bike racks.

A trailer hitch receiver that fits a Jeep Wrangler JK can be purchased very inexpensively from almost any aftermarket Jeep parts store or website. Installation is simple and can be done in a driveway with only simple hand tools.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Unpack the trailer hitch. You should have the trailer hitch receiver and bag of hardware.

2. 
    

   Gather the tools needed. You will need a socket wrench with socket and open end wrench. If available, a torque wrench should also be used.

3. 
    

   Locate the part of the Jeep's frame that runs behind the rear bumper. You will see the notch cut out for the hitch.

4. 
    

   Position the hitch over the frame and insert the 4 bolts through the back of the hitch. If you have a 2007 or 2008 Jeep Wrangler JK with a rear tow hook, you must remove the rear tow hook before installing a hitch.

5. 
    

   Thread the 4 nuts onto the bolts. Note: Some brand hitches may have the nuts welded onto the hitch. If this is the case, skip this step.

6. 
    

   Tighten the bolts until they are snug. Use a socket wrench on the bolt side (near the muffler) and a flat open end wrench on the nut side (near the plastic bumper).

7. 
    

   If available, use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the hitch manufacturer's specified value.

8. 
    

   Double check your work to make sure the trailer hitch receiver is secured properly. Enjoy the many uses of a trailer hitch on your Jeep Wrangler JK!

Tips & Warnings

• The Mopar brand JK hitch specifies 60 ft. lbs. of torque for each of the 4 bolts.
• Some brand hitches have the nuts already welded onto the hitch.
• Some 2007 and 2008 model Jeep Wranglers have a rear tow hook that must be removed to install a hitch. Some 2009 and up models have an offset rear tow hook that does not need to be removed to install a hitch.
• Make sure to chock the Jeep's wheels and apply the parking brake before working on the vehicle.
• Refer to the instructions provided by the hitch manufacturer during installation.
• Make sure to read the section in your Jeep owners manual about towing and towing capacity.