2004 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 268

● Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or the maximum front and rear GAWRs. If you do, parts of your vehicle can break, tire damage could occur, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. This could result in loss of control and cause personal injury. WARNING Overloading not only can shorten the life of your vehicle and the tire, but can also cause unsafe vehicle handling and longer braking distances. This may cause a premature tire failure which could result in a serious accident and personal injury. Failures caused by overloading are not covered by the vehicle's warranty. LOADING TIPS ● The GVW must not exceed GVWR or GAWR as specified on the F.M.V.S.S. Certification Label. WIC0342 VEHICLE LOAD WEIGHT CAPACITY The vehicle load weight capacity shown on following charts indicate the maximum total weight of passengers, optional equipment (air conditioning, trailer hitch, etc) and cargo that your vehicle is designed to carry. Before driving a loaded vehicle, confirm that you do not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for your vehicle. See ''Vehicle Loading Information'' earlier in this section for details. Also check tires for proper inflation pressures. See the tire placard. Cargo area floor tie-down hooks ● Do not load the front and rear axle to the GAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR. ● Loads should be spread out, and cargo should be properly secured. Large or heavy objects should be placed toward the front of the cargo area to help prevent shifting. WARNING ● Properly secure all cargo with ropes or straps to help prevent it from sliding or shifting. Do not place cargo higher than the seatbacks. In a sudden stop or collision, unsecured cargo could cause personal injury. 9-14 Technical and consumer information