How much weight can a 2017 Dodge Journey pull?
The 2017 Dodge Journey can tow up to 2,500 pounds with the V6 engine and up to about 2,000 pounds with the four-cylinder engine, depending on drivetrain and whether a factory tow package is installed.
For readers evaluating towing with a Journey, it's important to understand official ratings, how trailer weight and tongue weight factor in, and the safety steps involved before hitting the road. The following breakdowns explain the engine-based tow ratings and practical considerations.
Towing capacity by engine
The main determinant of tow rating is the engine. The figures below reflect maximum trailer weight for properly equipped 2017 Journeys.
- 2.4-liter inline-4 engine: maximum towing capacity about 2,000 pounds (907 kg).
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine: maximum towing capacity about 2,500 pounds (1,134 kg).
Numbers above assume the vehicle has the factory tow package and is in good condition. Always verify the exact numbers for your VIN in the owner's manual or with a Dodge dealer, as configurations and model years can vary.
Practical towing considerations
Beyond engine choice, several factors affect safe towing with the Journey. The following items outline critical considerations to keep in mind.
- Tow package: A factory tow package (hitch, wiring, cooling) is typically required to achieve the listed maximums; check your specific VIN.
- Tongue weight: Aim for roughly 10-15% of the trailer's loaded weight (about 200–375 pounds on a 2,000–3,000-pound trailer).
- Payload and GCWR: Do not exceed the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combined weight rating (GCWR); include passengers and cargo when calculating trailer capacity.
- Braking and cooling: Heavier trailers may require trailer brakes and proper engine/transmission cooling; ensure these systems are up to task.
- Safety and compliance: Use a proper hitch and wiring, ensure brakes and lights work, and follow local towing laws.
In practice, maximum ratings assume proper equipment and normal road conditions. Always consult the owner's manual or a dealer for the exact figures for your vehicle and never exceed the stated limits.
Summary
The 2017 Dodge Journey offers tow ratings from about 2,000 pounds with the 2.4L engine to about 2,500 pounds with the 3.6L V6, provided the vehicle is properly equipped. For safe towing, factor in tongue weight, payload, and the GCWR, and always verify figures in the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.
Are Dodge Journeys good for towing?
Almost every Journey trim can tow an impressive 2,500 pounds, except for the Journey SE Value Package (only available in front-wheel drive), which can tow up to 1,000 pounds.
How big of a trailer can a Dodge Journey pull?
The towing capacity of the Dodge Journey supports up to 1368kg.
Can a 2017 Dodge Journey tow a trailer?
2017 Dodge Journey towing capacity
With the standard 2.4-liter World Engine and a four-speed automatic transmission (standard on the SE, Crossroad, and SXT trim levels), the maximum towing capacity comes in at 1,000 lbs.
What is the 80% rule for towing?
The 80% rule for towing is a safety guideline that recommends the weight of a fully loaded trailer should not exceed 80% of a vehicle's maximum towing capacity. This provides a safety margin for unpredictable conditions and reduces stress on the vehicle's engine, transmission, and brakes, helping to ensure better handling and a longer lifespan for components.
How it works
- Calculate your vehicle's limit: Find your vehicle's maximum towing capacity in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website.
- Calculate 80% of the limit: Multiply the maximum towing capacity by 0.800.800.80 to find your safe towing limit. For example, if your vehicle can tow 10,00010 comma 00010,000 pounds, your limit is 8,0008 comma 0008,000 pounds.
- Account for all weight: Ensure the total weight of the fully loaded trailer, including cargo and passengers in both the vehicle and the trailer, stays below this 80% limit.
Why it's important
- Safety margin: It provides a buffer for real-world factors like hills, curves, and sudden stops.
- Vehicle longevity: It reduces strain on key components like the engine, transmission, and brakes, which can extend their lifespan.
- Handling: Maintaining a margin helps ensure your vehicle can be steered and controlled effectively, even under load.
