How to Pick Out (and Install) a Dodge Trailer Hitch

Dodge makes tow packages available for the Durango and Ram, but you may be able to add an aftermarket hitch to the carmaker’s other models.
Written by Jacqulyn Graber
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Dodge offers towing packages with its Durango SUVs and Ram pickup trucks. None of its other models come with a trailer hitch, but you may be able to add aftermarket equipment. 
Dodge is an all-American vehicle brand that historically produced performance cars. Today, the carmaker is known for its small lineup of sporty, high-performance vehicles, as well as its iconic line of Ram trucks. 
If you’re looking for a vehicle that, off the lot, is rough and ready to tow a trailer, camper, boat—or pretty much anything else you can imagine—the Durango and Ram are great options. However, you may not need to write off the Charger or Challenger if you’re willing to invest in aftermarket parts.
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Which Dodges come with a trailer hitch? 

Two Dodge models come with tow packages: Durango SUVs and Ram trucks. A tow package not only includes a trailer hitch but also additional features like heavy-duty shocks or springs, stronger brakes, a transmission cooler, and an upgraded battery.
How much your Dodge can tow will depend on the tow package it's equipped with, which can vary based on trim. Take a look at the wide variety of options:
Model, trim, and tow package
Maximum towing capacity
2022 Dodge Durango SRT 392 with a 6.4L V8 engine and AWD
8,700 lbs
2022 Dodge Durango R/T with Tow N Go package, 5.7L V8 engine, and AWD
8,700 lbs
2022 Dodge Durango R/T or Citadel with 5.7L V8 engine and RWD
7,400 lbs
2022 Dodge Durango R/T or Citadel with 5.7L V8 engine and AWD
7,200 lbs
2022 Dodge Durango SXT, SXT Plus, GT, or Citadel with 3.6L V6 engine and AWD or RWD
6,200 lbs
2022 Ram Chassis Cab 3500
15,500 lbs
2022 Ram 2500
15,500 lbs
2022 Ram 2500 SRW 10k GVWR Chassis Cab
15,500 lbs
2022 Ram 1500 Classic
4,000 lbs
2022 Ram 1500
4,000 lbs
2022 Ram Promaster
4,000 lbs

Can you put a hitch on a Dodge Charger or Challenger? 

Believe it or not, you can tow with a Dodge Charger or Challenger—even though they don’t come with available tow packages. All you have to do is add an aftermarket hitch.
To get your Dodge sedans ready to tow, you’ll need to purchase two separate accessories: a trailer hitch and a ball mount. Together, these accessories will allow you to pull any load (that’s within your towing capacity, of course).  
Before pulling anything behind your vehicle, it’s essential to understand its towing capacity. A Dodge Charger has a maximum towing capacity from 1,000 to 2,000 pounds depending on whether you own the seventh generation (2011 and newer) or sixth generation (2006–2010). 
Similarly, a 2022 Dodge Challenger has a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 pounds

How to pick a Dodge trailer hitch

But can you pick any old aftermarket trailer hitch and hook it up? Of course not! It’s essential to purchase the right one for your vehicle.
There are three different options to choose from:
  • Receiver hitch: This is the most common type of hitch, which attaches to your Dodge’s frame and meets rigorous safety standards. 
  • Front-mounted hitch: A front-mounted hitch allows you to mount a winch, snow plow, or other accessories.
  • Bumper hitch: A bumper hitch is much more adjustable but lacks the security of a receiver hitch, so it won’t carry quite as much weight.
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Genuine Dodge trailer hitches vs. aftermarket hitches for Dodge

Once you pick which type of trailer hitch is right for you and your towing needs, you’ll have to choose between a genuine Dodge trailer hitch or an aftermarket trailer hitch that’s compatible with Dodge.
Original Dodge parts (also called OEM parts) help ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle, but aftermarket parts from places like Amazon or U-Haul are going to be more affordable in some cases. If you shop carefully, you should have no problem finding a perfectly suitable aftermarket hitch. 

Intro to trailer classes

Finally, don’t forget to select a hitch that suits your trailer class—or the amount of weight you’ll be towing. 
Hitches are assigned the following classes:
  • Class I: Up to 2,000 lbs
  • Class II: 2,000 to 3,500 lbs
  • Class III: 3,500 to 8,000 lbs 
  • Class IV: 5,000 to 12,000 lbs 
  • Class V: 10,000 to 25,000 lbs 
Since the Charger and Challenger can only tow up to 2,000 pounds, you should be fine with a Class I hitch. 

The best Dodge Charger and Challenger trailer hitch

So, with all things considered, which trailer hitch should you purchase for your Dodge Charger or Challenger? Fortunately, most aftermarket hitches will be suitable for either vehicle, which makes shopping a little bit easier. 
Here are some great options from classic aftermarket retailers:
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How to install a trailer hitch on a Dodge

The safest and easiest way to install a trailer hitch on any vehicle is to let a professional do it. You can head to your local Dodge dealer, hit up your favorite garage, or see if someone at U-Haul is available to assist. In addition to the cost of equipment, you’ll typically pay about $100 to $250 for labor.
Of course, if you’re a savvy DIY mechanic, you can perform the job at home in your own garage. Here’s what you’ll need:
  • A socket set
  • A ratchet and ratchet extension
  • A swivel socket
  • A torque wrench
  • Work gloves, safety glasses, and a work light 
The hitch you purchase should come with detailed instructions for installation, but you can also look up YouTube videos for specific directions for your make and model. In general, you’ll want to follow these tips carefully: 
  • Position your vehicle on jack stands for better access to the rear of the vehicle where the hitch will be attached.
  • Get someone to help you if possible—towing gear can get really heavy! 
  • Always torque the bolts to the exact specifications outlined in the hitch’s directions, so everything stays safely attached.

How to upgrade your Dodge insurance

Before you head out onto the open road with a heavy load in tow, make sure your vehicle is covered by a top-notch
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FAQs

The cost of installing a trailer hitch will vary depending on where you go for the service, as well as the parts you decide to buy. Generally, parts should cost between $150 and $500, while labor should cost around $100 to $250.
Dodge Durangos have impressive towing capacities of up to 8,700 lbs, so you should have no trouble towing a typical U-Haul trailer. Keep in mind that your U-Haul’s weight will vary greatly depending on what’s inside.
No—but you can add an aftermarket trailer hitch to tow up to 1,000 or 2,000 lbs, depending on which generation of vehicle you own.
No—but you can add an aftermarket trailer hitch to tow up to 1,000 lbs, depending on which generation of vehicle you own.
Yes! Dodge Rams come with available towing packages, but their maximum towing capacities will vary greatly depending on which vehicle and tow package you choose.
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