What Would be Affected if You Carry a Very Heavy Load on Your Vehicle?
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What Would be Affected if You Carry a Very Heavy Load on Your Vehicle?
Your vehicle’s handling is affected when you carry a load. The effect on the handling gets worse the heavier the load is. Remember this when carrying passengers, baggage, a roof rack or a trailer.
If you carry a load heavier than the recommended mass, you could lose control of your vehicle, especially when travelling at high speed.
Safety tips when carrying a heavy load
Here’s how you can minimise the impact of a heavy load on your vehicle’s handling;
Carry the recommended mass
In your vehicle’s handbook, the manufacturer would have set out guidelines for how much mass your vehicle should carry. It’s important not to exceed this amount. Weigh your items before you load your car and consider the weight of any passengers, as this impacts the total amount you can carry.
Secure your items with a suitable restraint
A heavy unsecured item can destabilise your vehicle’s handling. If you’ve fitted a roof rack, ensure any items are securely fastened with the proper restraints.
Increase your tyre pressure
Heavy loads place additional stress on your tyres, which in turn affects the way your vehicle handles. Increase the tyre pressure above normal when towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load.