Used Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity Guide
With its rugged design and off-road versatility, a pre-owned Wrangler is a smart choice – but understanding the used Jeep Wrangler towing capacity is crucial if you plan to haul. Before you add this legendary SUV to your garage, the team at Bill Luke Santan has created a towing guide covering the 2020 to 2024 Jeep Wrangler lineups to help you determine which model is right for you!
Used Jeep Wrangler Towing Comparison
- The 2024 Wrangler leads the pack with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- The 2020 Wrangler matches its newer counterparts with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds1 but does not offer the available 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine.
- Across all model years, four-door Wrangler SUVs consistently have a higher towing capacity than two-door configurations, regardless of trim or powertrain option.
Used Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity: Determining Factors
Trim level, engine, drivetrain setup, and transmission type all play a role in how much a used Wrangler can tow. One of the biggest determining factors is whether you choose a two-door or four-door arrangement. The difference becomes clear when comparing the 2020 to 2024 base trims of both setups in the Jeep Wrangler towing capacity chart below.
A two-door Jeep Wrangler is ideal for off-road adventures due to its short, nimble wheelbase, which improves maneuverability and reduces the risk of getting stuck on rough terrain. However, this agile setup is optimal only for light towing. The longer wheelbase of the four-door Wrangler gives greater stability, allowing for a higher used Jeep Wrangler towing capacity.
That being said, a used Jeep Wrangler for sale with two doors is enough towing power to bring along a dirt bike or ATV, perfect for adding extra fun to your off-road adventures. However, if you’re planning to tow a larger trailer, small camper, or heavier equipment, the four-door Jeep Wrangler is better suited.
But which used Wrangler can handle the most? Let’s get into it!
2024 Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity
The 2024 Wrangler can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, 1,500 pounds more than previous years.1 This top-tier rating is available on the four-door Rubicon fitted with either the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 or the 2.0-liter Turbo engine, both paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission.
Outside of the Rubicon, properly equipped four-door Wrangler SUVs can tow up to 3,500 pounds.1 For those who want to maintain that 3,500-pound towing capability1 while gaining more horsepower, the 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 – exclusive to the Rubicon 392 and Rubicon 392 Final Edition – provides the perfect blend of hauling muscle and power output.
2023 Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity
The 2023 Wrangler was the final option to include the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 (available only in four-door configurations) and the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 with eTorque. Despite its powertrain or trim level, the 2023 lineup has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped – even for the four-door Jeep Rubicon model.
So, what allows the 2024 Rubicon to tow more? This improvement stems from the trim’s exclusive heavy-duty full-float rear axle, introduced in the 2024 redesign to significantly enhance the Wrangler SUV’s load-bearing performance under demanding conditions.
2022 Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity
Apart from a few differences in trim levels, the 2022 Wrangler follows the 2023 lineup in terms of engine types and achieves a max towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity
The 2021 Wrangler marked the debut of the Rubicon 392 variant and its now-legendary 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine, giving drivers increased horsepower while still maintaining the max 3,500-pound towing capacity.1
2020 Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity
The 2020 Wrangler was the first – and only – version to feature the optional 2.0-liter Turbo four-cylinder with eTorque. However, unlike the more versatile 3.6-liter V-6 with eTorque, this engine was limited to four-door configurations. While it delivered improved fuel efficiency and low-end torque, it still achieved the maximum towing rating as the other powertrains at 3,500 pounds.1
Test-Drive a Used Jeep Wrangler Today!
No matter if you’re eyeing the 2024 Wrangler with its impressive 5,000-pound towing capacity1 or just need enough strength to haul your aluminum fishing boat, explore all used Jeep vehicles for sale to find the perfect build, trim, and engine for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine is best for towing in a used Jeep Wrangler?
The best engine for towing a used Jeep Wrangler depends on the model year. From 2020 to 2023, properly equipped four-door variants – regardless of powertrain – boast a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.1 However, the 2024 Wrangler raises the bar, delivering between 3,500 to 5,000 pounds1 of towing capability when equipped with either the 3.6-liter V-6 or the 2.0-liter Turbo four-cylinder engine.
Can I add a towing package to a used Jeep Wrangler?
Yes, drivers can add towing accessories and equipment to a used Wrangler. However, we recommend using only OEM parts, as aftermarket equipment can potentially damage the vehicle or result in unsafe towing conditions. For optimal safety and performance, it’s best to have the towing package professionally installed and to ensure your Wrangler SUV’s engine and suspension are properly equipped to handle the load.
Can a used Jeep Wrangler tow a camper or small trailer?
Towing a camper or trailer with a used Wrangler depends on its tow rating. Wrangler SUVs with a 3,500-pound towing capacity when properly equipped can handle small utility trailers, enclosed trailers, and lightweight campers such as teardrops. Some pre-owned Wrangler SUVs offer up to 5,000 pounds of towing capability when properly equipped, making them ideal for heavier trailers, larger campers, and certain boat trailers.
1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
