1996 Mercury Tracer Owner's Manual - Page 209

Driving With a Heavy Load There are limits to the amount of weight your vehicle can carry. The total weight of your vehicle, plus the weight of the passengers and cargo, should never be more than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight that your vehicle carries over the front axle and rear axle should never be more than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the respective axle. You can find your vehicle's GVWR and GAWR on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the left front door lock facing or on the door latch post pillar. Usage of replacement tires with a higher weight limit than originals does not increase GVWR or GAWR. Usage of lower capacity replacement tires may lower GVWR and GAWR limitations and is not recommended. 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. 209