Loading Your Vehicle for Off-RoadDriving

CAUTION:
• Cargo on the load floor piled higher than the seatbacks can be thrown forward during a sudden stop. You or your passengers could be injured.

Keep cargo below the top of the seatbacks.
• Unsecured cargo on the load floor can be tossed about when driving over rough terrain. You or your passengers can be struck by flying objects.

Secure the cargo properly.
• Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over. You can be seriously or fatally injured if the vehicle rolls over. Put heavy loads inside the cargo area, not on the roof.

Keep cargo in the cargo area as far forward and low as possible.

There are some important things to remember about how to load your vehicle.

• The heaviest things should be on the load floor and forward of your rear axle. Put heavier items as far forward as you can.
• Be sure the load is secured properly, so driving on the off-road terrain does not toss things around.

You will find other important information in this manual.

    See also:

    Rear Axle
    When to Check Lubricant It is not necessary to regularly check rear axle fluid unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss could indicate a problem. Have it inspe ...

    Console Shift
    If the console shifter cannot be moved out of P (Park) 1. Apply and maintain the regular brakes. 2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN position. See Ignition Positions for more information. 3. Let up o ...

    Ignition Positions
    Use the key to turn the ignition switch to four different positions. A (LOCK): This position locks the ignition and transmission. It is a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remo ...