2012 Cadillac CTS Owner Manual - Page 271

Driving and Operating Refer to the vehicle's Tire and Loading Information label for specific information about the vehicle's capacity weight and seating positions. The combined weight of the driver, passengers, and cargo should never exceed the vehicle's capacity weight. Certification Label A vehicle-specific Certification label is attached to either the driver door edge or the lower center pillar on the driver side of the vehicle. The label tells the gross weight capacity of the vehicle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel, and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for the vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. If the vehicle is carrying a heavy load, it should be spread out. See "Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit" earlier in this section. Label Example 9-15 { WARNING Do not load the vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). This can cause systems to break and change the way the vehicle handles. This could cause loss of control and a crash. Overloading can also shorten the life of the vehicle.