1996 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 238

The load capacities of your vehicle's tires affect the GVWR or GAWR limitations. Using replacement tires with a higher weight limit than the originals does not increase GVWR or GAWR. Using lower capacity replacement tires may lower GVWR and GAWR limitations. RWARNING If the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label is exceeded, your vehicle may be damaged or you may lose control and injure someone. Vehicle/Trailer Loads Your vehicle may tow a Class I trailer up to 2,000 lbs. (907 kg) provided the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is less than the GVWR shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. With the optional trailer tow package, your vehicle can tow a trailer up to 3,500 lbs. (1,588 kg). Trailer Towing (may require trailer tow option package) Towing a trailer puts an additional load on your vehicle's engine, transaxle, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For your safety and for the good of your vehicle, use the right equipment for the type of trailer you tow. s Stay within the load limits when you tow. s Carefully and thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing, making sure to use the right equipment and to attach it properly. See Preparing to Tow in this section. s Use extra caution when driving your vehicle while you tow. See Driving While You Tow in this section. s Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. See Servicing Your Vehicle if You Tow in this section. 242