It is the responsibility of the Final Stage manufacturer to install a Certification label on your vehicle. This label shows how much weight your vehicle can properly carry. It may also show the size of the vehicle's original tires, and the inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of your vehicle. This is called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The tire information could also be shown on a separate Tire Information label.

The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel, and cargo.

The Certification label also tells you the maximum weight for the front and rear axles, called the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads on your front and rear axles, go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. Be sure to spread out your load equally on both sides of the center line.

Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GAWR for either the front or rear axle.

And, if you do have a heavy load, spread it out.

Caution: Do not load the vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on the vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of the vehicle.

Using heavier suspension components to get added durability might not change the weight ratings. Ask your dealer to help you load your vehicle the right way.

Notice: Overloading your vehicle may cause damage. Repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not overload your vehicle.

If you put things inside your vehicle -- like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else -- they go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they keep going.

Caution: Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash.