Vehicle Weight

This section will help you load your vehicle and/or trailer correctly so that the weight of the loaded vehicle stays within its rated capacity, with or without a trailer. Proper loading ensures the vehicle performs at its designed capability. Before loading your vehicle, review the following terms that define your vehicle's weight ratings, with or without a trailer, based on the vehicle specifications and the certification label:

Base Curb Weight

This is the weight of the vehicle including a full fuel tank and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or optional equipment.

Vehicle Curb Weight

This is the weight of your new vehicle when you took delivery from your dealer, plus any aftermarket equipment.

Cargo Weight

This figure includes all weight added to the Base Curb Weight, including cargo and optional equipment.

GAW (Gross Axle Weight)

This is the total weight on each axle (front and rear), including the vehicle curb weight and all payload.

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)

This is the maximum permissible weight that can be carried on one axle (front or rear). These values are shown on the certification label.

The total load on each axle must never exceed its GAWR.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)

This is the base curb weight plus the actual cargo weight plus passengers.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)

This is the maximum permissible weight of the fully loaded vehicle (including all options, equipment, passengers, and cargo). The GVWR is shown on the certification label.

Overloading

WARNING - Vehicle Weight

The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your vehicle are shown on the certification label attached to the driver's (or front passenger's) door. Exceeding these ratings may result in an accident or damage to the vehicle. You can calculate the weight of your cargo by weighing items (and people) before placing them in the vehicle. Be careful not to overload the vehicle.