Driving Your Vehicle

Certification Label

~1min read

The certification label is located on the driver's door pillar at the center pillar.

This label indicates the maximum permissible weight of the fully loaded vehicle. This is called the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all passengers, fuel, and cargo.

This label also shows the maximum weight that the front and rear axles can carry, called the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).

To determine the actual front and rear axle loads, you must drive to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can assist you with this. Be sure to distribute the load evenly on both sides of the centerline.

WARNING - Overloading

Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, the GAWR for the front or rear axle, or the vehicle's load capacity. Exceeding these values may affect vehicle handling and braking performance.

This label helps you determine how much cargo and installed equipment your vehicle can carry.

If you carry items in the vehicle such as suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else, they will move as fast as the vehicle. If you need to stop or turn suddenly, or in the event of a collision, the items will continue moving and may cause injury if they strike the driver or a passenger.

WARNING - Overloading

Do not overload your vehicle. Overloading can cause the tires to overheat and possibly fail, increase braking distance, and cause poor vehicle handling, any of which may lead to an accident.

✽ NOTICE

Overloading the vehicle may cause damage to it. Repairs are not covered by your warranty. Do not overload your vehicle.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Optima DL3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.