GVWR and GAWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and Gross Axle Weight Rating)
Certification label
The certification label attached to the driver’s side door shows GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating).
The GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) must never exceed the GVWR. GVW is the combined total of weight of the vehicle, fuel, driver, all passengers, luggage, any optional equipment and trailer tongue load. Therefore, the GVW changes depending on the situation.
In addition, the total weight applied to each axle (GAW) must never exceed the GAWR. The front and rear GAWs can be adjusted by relocating luggage inside the vehicle.
Even if the total weight of your luggage is lower than the vehicle capacity weight, either front or rear GAW may exceed the GAWR, depending on the distribution of the luggage.
When possible, the load should be evenly distributed throughout the vehicle. If you carry heavy loads in the vehicle, you should confirm that GVW and front and rear GAWs are within the GVWR and GAWR by putting your vehicle on a vehicle scale, found at a commercial weighing station.
Do not use replacement tires with a lower load range than the originals because they may lower the GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher load range than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.
See also:
While going down a hill
When you are descending a hill or any
other slope while braking with the
“SPORT” mode selected, the transmission
may downshift to 3rd or 2nd gear depending
on how hard you depress the brake
...
Calculating total and load capacities varying seating configurations
Calculate the available load capacity as shown in the following examples:
Example 1A
Vehicle capacity weight of the vehicle is 900 lbs (408 kg), which is indicated on the vehicle placard with the ...
Play file
Refer to “Play file”. ...