Things You Absolutely Need to Know Before Getting a GVM Upgrade

If you own a 4x4 vehicle, you may have considered a GVM upgrade to increase its capacity and capability. A GVM upgrade is the process of increasing the gross vehicle mass (GVM) of your vehicle, allowing you to carry more weight and tackle tougher terrain (more on this later).

While GVM upgrades can be a great investment for off-road enthusiasts, there are several things you must know before taking the plunge. Here, we'll talk about some of the key considerations you should keep in mind.

Understanding Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM)

Before we dive into the specifics of a GVM upgrade, it's important to understand what GVM means. Gross vehicle mass refers to the total weight of a vehicle, including its passengers, cargo, fuel and any other equipment or accessories. Every vehicle has a maximum GVM specified by the manufacturer. It represents the total amount of weight the vehicle can safely carry.

Why Get a GVM Upgrade?

Want to enhance the performance and versatility of your 4x4 vehicle? A GVM upgrade presents an attractive proposition. With a higher GVM, you'll be able to carry more gear, tackle tougher terrain and handle more challenging off-road conditions. A successful upgrade can also be beneficial if you frequently tow heavy loads or carry a lot of equipment.

Considerations Before Getting a GVM Upgrade

While a GVM upgrade can offer numerous benefits, there are several key factors to consider before taking the leap. These include:

Legal Requirements - Is the upgrade you’re planning even legal in your state or territory? Each jurisdiction has its own rules and regulations regarding vehicle modifications, so make sure to do your research and consult with a reputable mechanic or engineer.

Cost - As it’s a significant investment, make sure to consider the cost before making a decision. It would help to get quotes from multiple providers and factor in any additional costs, such as engineering certification or insurance.

Impact on Other Components - Depending on the upgrades, your project can put additional stress on your vehicle's suspension, brakes and other components. Consult with a qualified mechanic or engineer to ensure your vehicle is capable of handling the increased weight.

Warranty - Is your vehicle still under warranty? A GVM upgrade may void it or affect its coverage. Better to check with your manufacturer or dealer before working on any modifications.

Use - Consider how you’ll be using your vehicle after the GVM upgrade. Will you be towing heavy loads, carrying large amounts of gear or tackling tough off-road terrain? Make sure that your GVM upgrade is tailored to your specific needs and use cases.

Choosing a Provider

Decided to get a GVM upgrade? Now it’s time to choose a reputable provider. This is crucial in ensuring the upgrade is done safely and correctly. Here are a few tips:

Look for a provider with experience and expertise for the specific make and model of your vehicle.

Check reviews and ratings online to get a sense of their reputation and customer satisfaction.

Ask for references or examples of previous work to see if they have a track record of quality workmanship.

Check if your potential provider offers a warranty or guarantee on their work.

Planning on a GVM upgrade any time soon? Take note of our tips!