PA Emissions Inspector Certification Practice Exam

Where is the best place to locate a vehicle's gross weight rating?

1. Owner's manual

2. Dashboard display

3. Sticker or plate

4. Manufacturers website

The correct answer is: Sticker or plate

The best place to locate a vehicle's gross weight rating is on a sticker or plate that is typically affixed to the driver's side door jamb or the inside of the driver’s side door. This sticker or plate provides important information about the vehicle, including its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is the maximum weight the vehicle is rated to safely carry, including its own weight and the weight of any cargo, passengers, and any additional loads. Locating the gross weight rating on the sticker or plate is considered reliable because it is regulated by the manufacturer and must adhere to federal guidelines. This ensures that the information is accurate and relevant for that specific make and model of the vehicle, which is essential for compliance with safety standards and regulations. While the owner’s manual may have this information, it is often less convenient to find compared to the easily accessible sticker or plate. The dashboard display typically does not show the GVWR, and while the manufacturer's website could provide specifications, it is less direct than referring to the vehicle itself where the sticker or plate is physically affixed.