Gross Axle Weight (GAW) and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

Gross Axle Weight


Gross Axle Weight

The total weight applied to each axle (GAW) must never exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). The front and rear GAWs can be adjusted by relocating passengers and luggage inside the vehicle. The front and rear GAWR are also shown on the certification label.

Certification label


Certification label

To check both GVWR and GAWR and to confirm that the total weight and weight distribution are within safe driving limits, you should have your vehicle and trailer weighed at a commercial weighing station. Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to prevent a change in weight distribution while driving.

    See also:

    Forester in the Market
    The previous Forester was a Cars.com Best Bet on the strength of its versatility, reliability and safety credentials, but I've always had to footnote my recommendation of it with a warning about i ...

    2.0-L DOHC engines on the 2.0X and 2.0XS
    Fuel economy has been improved with the redesigned DOHC cylinder head, as well as through optimization of the compression ratio and reduction of the volume of the combustion chamber. Low-end and ...

    Examples of the types of accidents in which the driver’s/driver’s and front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag(s) will basically not deploy.
    The driver’s and front passenger’s SRS frontal airbags are designed basically not to deploy if the vehicle is struck from the side or from behind, or if it rolls onto its side or roof, or if it is i ...