Loading guidelines

WARNING
Always fasten items being carried as securely as possible. Use cargo tie-down rings and fastening materials appropriate for the weight and size of the load.

In an accident, during hard braking or sudden maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle. This can cause injury to vehicle occupants unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle.

To help avoid personal injury during a collision or sudden maneuver, exercise care when transporting cargo. Do not pile luggage or cargo higher than the seat backrests.

The cargo compartment is the preferred place to carry objects. Always use cargo tie-down rings, and if so equipped, always use the cargo net when transporting cargo.

Never drive a vehicle with the tailgate open.

Deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death.

The gross vehicle weight (GVW) is the vehicle weight including fuel, vehicle tool kit, spare wheel, installed accessories, vehicle occupants and luggage/cargo.

The gross load limit and the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for your vehicle must never be exceeded. The gross load limit and the GVWR are specified on the vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar of the driver's door (Y page 362).

The load must also be distributed so that the weight on each axle never exceeds the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axles. The specifications for GVWR and GAWR are on the vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar of the driver's door (Y page 362).

Further information can be found in the "Loading the vehicle" section (Y page 362).

The handling characteristics of a laden vehicle are dependent on the distribution of the load within the vehicle. For this reason, you should observe the following notes when transporting a load:
- position heavy loads as far forwards as possible and as low down in the cargo compartment as possible.

- the load must not protrude above the upper edge of the seat backrests.

- always place the load against the rear or front seat backrests. Make sure that the seat backrests are securely locked into place.

- hook in the cargo net when loading.

- always place the load behind unoccupied seats if possible.

- secure the load with sufficiently strong and wear-resistant tie down. pad sharp edges for protection.