1997 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 189

VEHICLE LOADING INFORMATION WARNING ● It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area inside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. ● Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat belts. ● Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a seat belt properly. maximum total weight (load) limit specified for the vehicle. ● GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) maximum weight (load) limit specified for the front or rear axle. front or rear GAWR is exceeded, shift the load or remove cargo as necessary. Loading Tips ● The GVW must not exceed GVWR or GAWR as specified on the FMVSS Certification Label. ● Do not load the front and rear axle to the GAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR. WARNING ● Properly secure all cargo 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. ● Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or the maximum front and rear GAWRs. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. This could result in loss of control and cause personal injury. ● Overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle. Failures caused by overloading are not covered by your warranty. Determining Vehicle Load Capacity The load capacity of this vehicle is determined by weight, not by available cargo space. For example, a luggage rack, bike carrier, cartop carrier or similar equipment does not increase load carrying capacity of your vehicle. To determine vehicle load capacity: Vehicle weight can be determined by using a commercial-grade scale, found at places such as a truck stop, gravel quarry, grain elevator, or a scrap metal recycling facility. 1) Determine the curb weight of your vehicle. 2) Compare the curb weight amount to the GVWR specified for your vehicle to determine how much more weight your vehicle can carry. 3) After loading (cargo and passengers), re-weigh your vehicle to determine if either GVWR or GAWR for your vehicle is exceeded. If GVWR is exceeded, remove cargo as necessary. If either the 9-14 Terms It is important to familiarize yourself with the following terms before loading your vehicle: ● Curb Weight (actual weight of your vehicle) - vehicle weight including: standard and optional equipment, fluids, emergency tools, and spare tire assembly. This weight does not include passengers and cargo. ● GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) - curb weight plus the combined weight of passengers and cargo. ● GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) -