2009 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 260

Driving tips 8-13 & GVWR and GAWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and Gross Axle Weight Rating) The certification label attached to the driver's side doorjamb shows GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating). The GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) must never exceed the GVWR. GVW is the combined total of weight of the vehicle, fuel, driver, all passengers, luggage and any optional equipment. Therefore, the GVW changes depending on the situation. The GVWR equals Curb Weight (actual weight of your vehicle - including standard equipment, fluids, emergency tools and spare tire assembly) plus the vehicle capacity weight. In addition, the total weight applied to each axle (GAW) must never exceed the GAWR. The front and rear GAWs can be adjusted by relocating luggage inside the vehicle. Even if the total weight of your luggage is lower than the vehicle capacity weight, either front or rear GAW may exceed the GAWR, depending on the distribution of the luggage. When possible, the load should be evenly distributed throughout the vehicle. If you carry heavy loads in the vehicle, you should confirm that GVW and front and rear GAWs are within the GVWR and GAWR by putting your vehicle on a vehicle scale, found at a commercial weighing station. Do not use replacement tires with a lower load range than the originals because they may lower the GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher load range than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations. & Roof rail (if equipped) 1) Roof rack Luggage can be carried on the roof after securing the roof rack to the roof rail. When installing the roof rack on the roof rail, follow the manufacturer's instructions. The roof rail is designed to carry loads (luggage and roof rack) of not more than 150 lbs (68 kg). CAUTION . When using the roof rack, make sure that the total carrying load of the roof rack and luggage does not exceed 150 lbs (68 kg). Overloading may cause damage to the vehicle. . For cargo carrying purposes, the - CONTINUED -