GVM stands for Gross Vehicle Mass, and it refers to the maximum allowable mass of your vehicle. This doesn't include just the vehicle itself. You also need to think about the added weight of fuel, passengers, cargo, and any accessories you may have chosen to fit.
This can become a problem for people who want to use their SUV to its fullest. Once you add things like winches or bike racks, you can find you're already exceeding the manufacturer's GVM, which can make it tough to fully utilize your SUV for anything from touring to commercial work.
Fortunately, GVM upgrades exist to increase the loads your vehicle can carry. Unfortunately, many drivers still simply ignore the problem and continue driving while exceeding their GVM. Here are just a few reasons why that's a bad idea.
You'll Be Breaking the Law
The most important reason not to exceed your GVM is that doing so is illegal. If you're ever stopped while carrying more weight than you should, you could find yourself facing serious fines and the impoundment of your vehicle. Additionally, you will probably be held legally accountable if the extra weight your vehicle is carrying causes an accident that damages another vehicle or even causes others injury. This is made even worse by the fact that exceeding the manufacturer's GVM will put you in breach of conditions set out by your insurance provider and by the manufacturer's warranty, so the costs involved could be huge.
You'll Be Less in Control of Your SUV
You might think an accident is unlikely, but you actually raise your risk of being involved in one by exceeding your SUV's GVM. Carrying too much weight will adversely affect your 4x4 system. In most cases, you'll find the back end dipping down and the front end rising. This will affect your steering and braking ability, which will in turn reduce your control over the vehicle and increase the risk of being involved in a collision.
You'll Increase Wear and Tear
When you force your vehicle to carry more weight than it can handle, you place added stress on numerous parts. The suspension system will be under particular strain, as will the tyres. Both will be at risk of premature failure. In cases where your SUV is seriously overloaded, the chassis itself may even become bent. Even if a GVM upgrade sounds too expensive, opting for one now could save you from making other expensive repairs or replacements in the future.
Contact a professional to learn more about services for SUVs like Ford Everest GVM upgrades.
Share22 November 2022
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