Take these as your sign for a GVM Upgrade...
If you own a 4WD in Australia, chances are you’re loading it up with gear, towing something heavy, or just pushing it to its absolute limits (as you should). But here’s the thing—every 4x4 has a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) limit, and exceeding it isn’t just bad for your suspension and handling; it can void your insurance and make your rig illegal.
So how do you know when it’s time to bite the bullet and get a GVM upgrade? Here are five dead giveaways that your 4x4 is crying out for one.
1. Your Suspension Sags More Than Your Mate After a Big Night
If your 4WD is sitting lower than it should—especially when loaded up—you’ve got a problem. Sagging suspension means you’re carrying more weight than your stock suspension can handle, making your ride uncomfortable and reducing ground clearance.
Red flags:
Your rear end squats under load
The front end lifts, making steering feel light and floaty
Your ride feels bouncy and unstable, especially over bumps
A proper GVM upgrade replaces springs, shocks, and other key components to handle the extra weight properly.
2. Your Brakes Feel Like They’re Made of Wet Cardboard
Overloading your 4WD means your brakes have to work harder, and if they’re struggling to pull you up in a hurry, you’re asking for trouble.
Red flags:
Longer stopping distances than usual
Brake fade (pedal feels soft after heavy braking)
The ABS kicks in way more than it should
A GVM upgrade isn’t just about suspension—many kits also include brake upgrades to help you stop safely under heavy loads.
3. It Feels Like You’re Driving a Boat
Ever felt like your 4WD is swaying and rocking like a yacht in rough seas? That’s your overloaded suspension and chassis not coping with the weight.
Red flags:
Excessive body roll when cornering
Feeling unstable in crosswinds or on uneven terrain
Trailer pushing the vehicle around when towing
A GVM upgrade stiffens things up, improving handling so you can drive with confidence instead of white-knuckling every turn.
4. You’re Constantly Near or Over the Legal Limit
The moment you start adding bull bars, winches, roof racks, drawers, canopies, long-range tanks, and all the other essentials, your GVM can creep up fast.
Red flags:
Your payload is maxed out before adding passengers or luggage
You’ve never actually weighed your rig and just assume it’s legal
You tow a heavy caravan, camper, or boat and aren’t sure if you're compliant
Overloading your vehicle can lead to fines, defect notices, and voided insurance if you’re in an accident. A GVM upgrade keeps you legal and stress-free.
5. Your Insurance Company Would Laugh at Your Payload
Insurance companies don’t mess around when it comes to overloaded vehicles. If you’re in an accident and found to be over your legal GVM, they can deny your claim on the spot—meaning you’re left footing the bill.
Red flags:
You’ve never checked your GVM vs. actual weight
Your insurance policy doesn’t cover modified vehicles properly
You’ve added so many accessories that your rig weighs more than a small truck
A GVM upgrade ensures you’re covered, keeping your insurance valid and giving you peace of mind.
Time to Upgrade? Here’s What to Do Next
If you’ve ticked off any of the signs above, it’s time to seriously consider a GVM upgrade before you run into bigger problems. At BAW Automotive, we specialise in GVM upgrades for LandCruisers, Rangers, Hiluxes, D-Maxes, Patrols, and more, ensuring your rig is safe, legal, and built for adventure.
Get in touch with our team today and let’s sort out your GVM upgrade before your overloaded 4WD bites back.
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