Overloading can cause potential safety hazards and
shorten useful service life. Heavier suspension compo-
nents do not necessarily increase the vehicle’s GVWR.
Loading
To load your vehicle properly, first figure out its empty
weight. Store heavier items down low and be sure you
distribute their weight as evenly as possible. Stow all
loose items securely before driving. Improper weight
distribution can have an adverse effect on the way your
vehicle steers and handles, and the way the brakes
operate.
CAUTION!
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the
GVWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, or
it can change the way your vehicle handles. This
could cause you to lose control. Also, overloading can
shorten the life of your vehicle.
TRAILER TOWING
In this section you will find safety tips and information
on limits to the type of towing you can reasonably do
with your vehicle. Before towing a trailer, carefully
review this information to tow your load as efficiently
and safely as possible.
To maintain warranty coverage, follow the requirements
and recommendations in this manual concerning ve-
hicles used for trailer towing.
Common Towing Definitions
The following trailer towing related definitions will assist
you in understanding the information:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle.
This includes driver, passengers, cargo and tongue
weight. The total load must be limited so that you do not
5
STARTING AND OPERATING
365
Summary of Contents for 2012 Compass
Page 4: ......
Page 8: ...6 INTRODUCTION...
Page 125: ...3 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 123...
Page 126: ...124 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE...
Page 127: ...3 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 125...
Page 197: ...INSTRUMENT CLUSTER 4 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 195...
Page 285: ...UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 283...
Page 337: ...STARTING AND OPERATING 335...
Page 450: ......
Page 477: ...INDEX 10...
Page 497: ...Chrysler Group LLC 12MK49 126 AC R3 3rd Edition Printed in U S A...