Can You Put a Trailer Hitch on a Jeep Compass?

If you currently own a Jeep Compass then you are probably loving your vehicle right now or if you are thinking of buying a new truck, then we would not be surprised if you are leaning towards the Jeep Compass. The Jeep Compass is a great crossover SUV and while it is great on its own, many drivers want to add an additional trailer hitch on their Jeep Compass. The only question is, can it be done?

Can You Put a Trailer Hitch on a Jeep Compass?

You can put a trailer hitch on a Jeep Compass, but there are limitations. This said, trailer hitches are not one size fits all, and what kind of trailer hitch you will need depends on the year of your Jeep Compass. To find out what trailer hitch fits best for your model of Jeep Compass, keep on reading.

Let’s get started!

What Trailer Hitch Works Best For Your Jeep Compass?

●     2020 Jeep Compass: Draw-Tite

• 1-1/4 Inch Hitch Opening
• 350 Pound Tongue Weight
• 3500 Pound Towing
• For the 2020 Jeep Compass, we would recommend the Draw-Tite 1-¼ inch Opening.
• This trailer hitch is great because it is corrosion-resistant.
• This trailer is also great because Draw-Tite guarantees that this trailer hitch will exceed the industry standard, and who knows maybe your own as well.

●     2019 Jeep Compass: Curt Class II Receiver Hitch

• 1-1/4 Inch Hitch Opening
• 350 Pound Tongue Weight
• 3500 Pound Towing
• The Curt Class II Receiver Hitch is great for light-duty towing.
• It is also fully welded and topped off with gloss powder-coated steel construction.
• There is no drilling required for the Curt Class II Receiver Hitch.
• Please note that the drawbar is not included.

●     2018 Jeep Compass: Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Round Tube Receiver Hitch

• 2 Inch Hitch Opening
• 675 Pound Tongue Weight
• 4500 Pound Towing
• Access holes may need to largened for filling, drilling or rotary tool
• No drilling is required for this installation so this trailer hitch does not require many tools
• Keep in mind that the exhaust, however, does need to be lowered for the installation of this trailer hitch
• Also, modification to the exhaust hanger bracket is required for this installation

●     2017 Jeep Compass: eTrailer

• 2 Inch Hitch Opening
• 400 Pound Tongue Weight
• 4000 Pound Towing

• Please do keep in mind that this is the old body style trailer hitch
• The eTrailer will bolt into your Jeep Compass’ frame with absolutely no welding required.
• It is matte black and finished off with powder-coated steel. This ensures that the trailer hitch is not only durable but it is also corrosion resistant which is important overall but especially so if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. 
• The eTrailer has been complimented for its rough and rugged look that many drivers appreciate.
• As for installation, you will be glad to know that no drilling is required for the installation of this trailer hitch
• You must remove your heat shield while you are installing this trailer hitch however
• Your exhaust must be lowered while you are installing this trailer hitch
• Fascia trimming is required for the installation of this trailer hitch

●     2016 Jeep Compass: Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch

–       2 Inch Hitch Opening

–       525 Pound Tongue Weight

–       3500 Pound Towing

• The Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch is quite strong and durable.
• Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch also has many great reviews.
• The Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch is a hybrid of an e-coat base that is topped off with a powder coat. The combination of both ensures that rusting will be at a minimum.
• For installation, please note that fascia trimming is required for the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch.
• However, no drilling is required to install the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch.

What is Trailer Hitch Used for?

Trailer Hitches, as the name implies, is used to tow a trailer. It is normally connected to a bigger car whether it be an SUV or truck, but some trailer hitches are attached to midsize SUVs as well.

While towing a trailer is the most common reason why people buy a trailer hitch, it does not mean that towing a trailer is its only use. Like most people, you probably enjoy multifunctional items. Especially if you are paying a bit more for it, and trailer hitches are no different.

When you are not using the trailer hitch attached to your Jeep Compass for towing a large trailer, then you are probably wondering what else you could use it for. If so, you are not alone in this thought.

Here are some ways to use your trailer hitch that you might not have thought of before.

●     Use it as a bike rack

• If you are riding to the beach solo and need some space to hook your bike, then you can use your trailer hitch.

●     Use it as a cargo carrier

• This is especially helpful if your car is already packed with passengers and luggage.

●     Attach a hitch cover

• If you do not need your trailer hitch for anything other than some annual trips, then you could add some style to it by adding a hitch cover. There are so many different hitch covers to choose from these days, so you can go with the one that you like the most.

●     Use it as a canoe hitch rack

• Trailer hitches are not just used to tow, it can also be used for extra space.

●     Attach a winch mount

• Winch mounts are not for everyone but if you are the more adventurous type then the option is there for you.

●     Add on a safety bumper

• No one will say no to extra safety, especially in heavy traffic areas. If you want to add on an extra layer of protection, then consider adding a safety bumper to our trailer hitch when it is not being used to tow.

●     Add on a trailer hitch step

• This is especially great if you travel with younger kids. The added step just makes it that much more convenient and also fun for the kids.

●     Attach a hammock to it

• If you had ever wanted to set up a hammock but had nowhere to set it up, then you can use your trailer hitch.

 

The Takeaway|Do You Even Need a Trailer Hitch?

All in all, trailer hitches are pretty great. Not only are you able to put on a trailer hitch on your Jeep Compass, but you can also use it when you are not towing any sort of trailer. The fact that it can be used multiple ways already makes it a winner, and you will be getting more for your money.

However, it is not a must-need item as much as it is a great add-on for convenience. Trailer hitches, although a great investment, are not inexpensive. If you do not have the funds and are wondering if your Jeep Compass needs it, then you rest assured that your Jeep Compass will still be as great without this additional add-on. If anything, be sure to search around to see if you will be able to buy it used.

Lastly, attaching a trailer hitch on your Jeep Compass is not as complicated as you might think. Do be sure to be careful when installing your trailer hitch onto your Jeep Compass because you do not want to scratch or damage your Jeep Compass in any way. Many articles go into detail about the installation method, as well as informative videos online.

If you are not handy and do not want to risk damaging your Jeep Compass, then you can also bring it into your local mechanic. It might give you great peace of mind knowing that your trailer hitch and Jeep Compass are in great hands.