2003 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 235

INSTALLING FRONT LICENSE PLATE ● GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) - maximum weight (load) limit specified for the front or rear axle. 3. After loading (cargo and passengers), reweigh 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 front or rear GAWR is exceeded, shift the load or remove cargo as necessary. ● 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. ● Overloading can shorten the life of the vehicle. Failures caused by overloading are not covered by the vehicle's 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. LOADING TIPS ● The GVW must not exceed GVWR or GAWR as specified on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label. ● Do not load the front and rear axle to the GAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR. 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. Technical and consumer information 9-13