Land Rover Defender: Steps for determining correct load limit

Make sure the warnings in this topic have been read and fully understood before driving the vehicle. Exceeding the specified load limits could result in an accident, leading to serious injury or death.

1. Locate the statement "The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs" on your vehicle's placard.

2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the "XXX" amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 − 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.) 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.

6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

The number and weight of passengers affect the cargo and luggage capacity. In the example above, the cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lb. However, if fewer passengers ride in the vehicle, the luggage load capacity increases. If this vehicle carries three 150 lb passengers, the cargo and luggage load capacity increases to 950 lb:

(3 x 150 = 450 lb, and 1400 - 450 = 950 lb).

If the passengers weigh more, the cargo and luggage load capacity decreases.

Do not exceed the vehicle capacity weight (the total weight of driver, passengers, and cargo) given on the tire information label.

The weight of accessories must also be subtracted from the cargo and luggage load capacity. If unsure of the weight of any accessories fitted to the vehicle, contact a retailer/authorized repairer.

Overloading the vehicle will have an adverse effect on braking and handling characteristics, which could compromise safety. Overloading a vehicle may also cause tire damage or failure. Never overload the vehicle.

READ NEXT: