How Will a Heavy Load on Your Roof Rack Affect Your Vehicle’s Handling?
Find answers to this theory test question and general advice on driving with a heavy load on your roof rack.
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How Will a Heavy Load on Your Roof Rack Affect Your Vehicle’s Handling?
Driving with a heavy load on your roof rack reduces your vehicle’s stability. It shifts your vehicle’s centre of gravity away from where the manufacturer designed it to be, so keep this in mind when driving around bends and changing speed. If you change speed or direction at short notice, your load could become unstable causing a serious accident.
Keeping control of your vehicle when driving with a heavy load
- Your stopping distance increases with a heavy load on your roof rack. To stay safe, give yourself more time to slow down and stop when braking. Avoid harsh braking and last-minute changes of direction.
- Do not accelerate around bends or corners. Accelerating around a bend with a heavy load on top could force your vehicle to tip over. Take your time and avoid rushing into hazards.
- Keep your vehicle in either gear 1 or 2 when travelling uphill with a heavy load on your roof. This scenario has a higher risk of stalling, so the low gear can help generate the extra power you need to climb up the hill.
- Do not exceed your vehicle’s maximum load weight, as doing so reduces your vehicle’s performance and could damage your tyres, rims, suspension and other vital components.