How Much Weight Can a Car Trunk Bear?
3 Answers
The weight-bearing capacity of a car trunk varies depending on the vehicle model. Generally, the trunk load of a sedan is about 125 kilograms, while that of a compact car is less than 80 kilograms, and an SUV's trunk can bear approximately 1000 kilograms. You can refer to the vehicle manual for the specific load capacity of your car's trunk. Long-term overloading of the trunk can cause serious damage to the vehicle. Excessive load forces the car engine to operate under strain, thereby reducing its lifespan and increasing fuel consumption. Moreover, due to the excessive weight in the trunk, the overall driving performance of the car decreases, significantly raising the probability of losing control when going uphill or downhill. If overweight items are not unloaded in time, it can also accelerate tire wear and the wear of car components during driving. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid placing overloaded items in the trunk.
I've driven several cars, and the weight limit for the trunk generally ranges between 100 to 500 kilograms, depending on the model and design. For example, my old sedan could only handle about 150 kilograms. Overloading caused the suspension to sag, worsened handling, and increased braking distance, which was quite dangerous. The owner's manual always specifies the exact numbers, so I recommend checking it before loading anything. Overloading can also damage the trunk lid or the chassis and shorten tire lifespan. Once, I tried packing it full when moving, and the rear of the car wobbled badly. I ended up making multiple trips for safety. Different cars vary greatly—SUVs have higher load capacity—but safety comes first, so don't overload.
The load-bearing capacity of the trunk mainly depends on the suspension system and body structure. Sedans can typically handle 150 kg, while SUVs can bear up to 400 kg. Excessive weight accelerates wear on suspension components and may even cause tire blowouts. Having studied cars for years, I've found that overloading affects handling stability, making it prone to loss of control during turns. Manufacturers specify the maximum load in the manual, which must be strictly followed. Regularly checking tire pressure helps manage full-load situations. Overloading may also damage trunk locks or hinges and shorten the vehicle's lifespan. For safety, always weigh items before placing them in the trunk.
