I just had a brand-new trailer hitch installed on my 2017 Altitude by a local trailer shop. I told them my plan was for towing an 8-10 ft utility trailer. They told me what they could install and that I would need to go to a Jeep dealership afterward to have it "activated". I had the installation done, which I learned included an OEM 7 pin plug. About a week later I took it to the local Jeep dealer. The rep stated they had to add to "Tow Accessory" to my vehicle’s profile, which was something they did online. They also brought my jeep into the bay. After about 10 minutes or so, the rep came over and said the hitch wasn’t installed correctly, saying there are no wires to make it active? Mentioned something about no wires connecting, and reference to PDC? Rep stated I would need the factory tow harness, which he said was pricey. He mentioned that unless I was towing a large trailer, something with brakes, I could use a 4-flat with splitter in the back for lights/directionals? I contacted trailer business, and they said it should all be set up for the dealership. Their explanation, as well as the Jeep dealership’s explanation was confusing, I'm not a technical person, and was trying to understand what needs to be done to have an operational hitch. It sounded like each were pointing fingers at the other.
I paid $400 and some change (P&L) out the door at the trailer shop for the initial install, and another $50 at the Jeep dealership to "activate". During the follow up with The trailer shop, they said they could do the 4-flat kit in the back and adjust the cost based on previous P&L, but I would have a cost of around $200? Trailer shop said I could also try another Jeep dealership, suggesting perhaps the dealership tech may not have the correct knowledge? I don't know who's right or wrong. I just want my hitch to work and not have to shell out 100s more. This, plus the inconvenience of having to go back for rework is not making it a positive experience. Appreciate any insight.
I paid $400 and some change (P&L) out the door at the trailer shop for the initial install, and another $50 at the Jeep dealership to "activate". During the follow up with The trailer shop, they said they could do the 4-flat kit in the back and adjust the cost based on previous P&L, but I would have a cost of around $200? Trailer shop said I could also try another Jeep dealership, suggesting perhaps the dealership tech may not have the correct knowledge? I don't know who's right or wrong. I just want my hitch to work and not have to shell out 100s more. This, plus the inconvenience of having to go back for rework is not making it a positive experience. Appreciate any insight.
