How much can a 2011 Dodge Journey tow?
The 2011 Dodge Journey can tow up to about 3,500 pounds when equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 and the trailer tow package, or around 2,000 pounds with the smaller 2.4-liter engine. Actual capacity depends on equipment and configuration.
Understanding the 2011 Journey’s towing capacity requires noting that there were multiple engine options and available towing equipment. The rating can vary based on the engine, whether the Trailer Tow Group is installed, and other factory-determined limits. This article outlines the typical figures and the factors that influence them, so drivers can gauge what they can safely pull.
Engine options and their towing limits
Below is a quick guide to the main powertrain configurations and their commonly cited towing capabilities. The figures assume the vehicle is equipped with the appropriate towing package and is within its GVWR/payload limits.
- 2.4L inline-4 engine: Up to about 2,000 pounds when properly equipped with the Trailer Tow Group (and appropriate hitch and braking provisions).
- 3.5L V6 engine: Up to about 3,500 pounds with the Trailer Tow Group and the necessary towing hardware.
Note that variations in trim, optional equipment, and regional specs can shift these numbers. Always verify the exact rating in the owner’s manual or on the vehicle’s data plate for your specific build.
Other factors that affect towing capability
Several non-engine factors can influence the safe towing limit of a 2011 Journey. These considerations are important even before you attach a trailer.
- Tow package availability: The Trailer Tow Group or equivalent packages typically unlock higher towing ratings and include the necessary hitch, wiring, and sometimes upgraded cooling or electrical components.
- Vehicular weight limits: GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating), curb weight, payload capacity, and tongue weight all cap the trailer you can safely tow.
- Drivetrain and braking: Front-wheel-drive vs. all-wheel-drive configurations and the presence of trailer brakes affect towing performance and required braking capacity.
- Hitch and tongue weight: The receiver size, hitch class (e.g., Class II/III), and proper distribution of tongue weight are critical for stability and safety.
- Trailer characteristics: Total trailer weight, length, braking (electric or hydraulic), and whether the trailer has its own braking influence the practical limit.
Always cross-check the exact ratings with the owner’s manual and your vehicle’s data plate, and avoid exceeding the lowest-rated component in the towing setup.
Practical tips for towing with a 2011 Journey
To tow safely and within limits, consider the following steps and best practices before hitting the road with a trailer.
- Confirm you have the correct equipment: Trailer Tow Group, proper hitch, wiring, and, if required, trailer brakes. Ensure the trailer’s weight does not exceed the Journey’s rating.
- Check tongue weight and payload: Keep tongue weight around 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight and ensure the vehicle’s payload remains within spec.
- Distribute load and use proper towing practices: Use a weight-distributing hitch if needed, maintain even weight distribution, and use mirrors designed for towing to improve visibility.
- Follow braking and maintenance guidelines: If the trailer lacks its own brakes, be mindful of longer stopping distances; inspect brakes, lights, and hitch connections regularly.
- Adhere to local laws and safe driving: Observe speed limits, account for wind, and plan for longer stopping distances when towing.
By following these guidelines and sticking to the manufacturer’s rated limits, drivers can tow confidently while maintaining safety for both the Journey and the trailer.
Summary
The 2011 Dodge Journey’s towing capacity varies by engine and equipment: about 2,000 pounds with the 2.4L I-4 (with the right tow package) and up to about 3,500 pounds with the 3.5L V6 and towing package. Real-world towing depends on total load, payload, hitch setup, and adherence to the vehicle’s rated limits. Always consult the owner’s manual and confirm configurations with the vehicle’s data plate before towing.
How much weight can a 2011 Dodge Journey pull?
2,500 lbs.
Towing & Hauling
| Max Towing Capacity | 2,500 lbs. |
|---|---|
| Max Payload Capacity | 1,405 lbs. |
What year to stay away from Dodge Journey?
The Dodge Journey years to avoid are primarily 2009, 2010, and 2015 due to numerous complaints about reliability issues. Other problematic years include 2011 and 2012, which also had significant reports of brake, engine, and electrical system failures.
You can watch this video to learn about common Dodge Journey problems: 56scar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 28, 2022
Years to avoid
- 2009-2010: These are frequently cited as the worst years, with high numbers of complaints about premature brake wear, electrical failures (including the TIPM), engine problems, and locking brake calipers. The 2009 model also had eight different recalls.
- 2015: This year is specifically mentioned as one of the worst for reliability.
- 2011-2012: These years are also flagged for problems, including widespread brake issues, engine trouble, and various electrical system glitches.
Common problems across problematic years
- Brake system: Premature wear of brake pads and rotors is a very common issue.
- Electrical system: Multiple electrical failures, including issues with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), sensors, gauges, and keyless entry.
- Engine: Problems ranging from engine power loss to overheating, often linked to coolant system blockages.
- Transmission: Hesitation, shifting delays, and other issues, particularly in specific models like the 2012 RT AWD.
- Other issues: Water leaks and problems with the air conditioning and heater system are also frequently reported.
How much can a 3.6 L V6 engine tow?
The towing capacity for a 3.6L V6 engine varies significantly by vehicle, ranging from about 3,500 lbs for a Jeep Wrangler to over 8,110 lbs for a Ram 1500 with eTorque. Other models, like the Ram ProMaster, fall in between with a capacity of around 7,130 lbs. Always check the specific vehicle's owner's manual or door jamb sticker for its exact maximum towing capacity, as it depends on the vehicle's configuration and options.
This video shows the performance of a Ram 1500 V6 towing a 7200 lbs trailer: 59sVITAL ExplorerYouTube · Aug 18, 2021
- Jeep Wrangler: ~3,500 lbs (for two-door models)
- Jeep Gladiator: 4,000 to 7,700 lbs, depending on the Max Tow package
- Ram 1500 (with eTorque): Up to 8,110 lbs
- Ram ProMaster (2025): Up to 7,130 lbs
- Ram ProMaster (2023): Up to 6,910 lbs
This video demonstrates the towing capability of a Ram 1500 V6 with an 8000 lbs trailer: 58sGetty's GarageYouTube · Sep 17, 2023
This video shows the towing experience with a Jeep Gladiator and a travel trailer: 57sProdigal OverlandYouTube · Jul 6, 2022
Can a Dodge Journey pull a trailer?
Yes, a Dodge Journey can pull a trailer, but the towing capacity varies by engine and trim. Models with the base 2.4L engine have a 1,000-pound towing capacity, while those with the more powerful 3.6L V6 engine can tow up to 2,500 pounds.
This video demonstrates how to install a trailer hitch on a Dodge Journey: 55setrailerYouTube · May 20, 2025
Towing capacity by engine
- 2.4L 4-cylinder engine: The towing capacity is 1,000 pounds.
- 3.6L V6 engine: The towing capacity is 2,500 pounds.
Which capacity applies to your Journey?
- Check your engine: The base or lower-trim models typically come with the 2.4L engine, while higher trims often have the more powerful 3.6L V6 engine, sometimes as an option.
- Check your trim: Even if you have the 3.6L V6, the specific trim level can affect the towing capacity.
- Install the correct equipment: If you plan to tow, especially with the 3.6L engine, you may need to add the Trailer Tow Group package, which includes a Class II Receiver Hitch and wiring harness, according to this Tonkin Hillsboro Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM article.
