Overloading

The load carrying components (axle, springs, tires, wheels, etc.) of your vehicle will provide satisfactory service as long as you do not exceed the GVWR and front and rear GAWR.

The best way to figure out the total weight of your vehicle is to weigh it when it is fully loaded and ready for operation. Weigh it on a commercial scale to ensure that it is not over the GVWR.

Figure out the weight on the front and rear of the vehicle separately. It is important that you distribute the load evenly over the front and rear axles.

Overloading can cause potential safety hazards and shorten useful service life. Heavier axles or suspension components do not necessarily increase the vehicle’s GVWR.

    See also:

    Automatic Transmission
    The automatic transmission and differential assembly are contained within a single housing. The fluid level in the automatic transmission should be checked whenever the vehicle is serviced. Opera ...

    Parking Brake
    Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to leave the transmission in PARK. The parking brake lever is located in the center console. To ap ...

    Sun Screens — If Equipped
    Sun screens are available for second and third row seating windows. The screens store in the sill trim panels, and the tops of the windows are equipped with hooks that the sun screens attach to ...