Will carrying 500 jin (250 kg) of cargo damage an SUV?

[DiHayden]

Carrying 500 jin (250 kg) of cargo in an SUV can damage the vehicle. Below are the hazards of overloading: Braking performance: Vehicle load directly affects braking distance, which is a critical factor in stopping performance. Due to increased inertia, overloaded vehicles require longer braking distances. The expanded danger zone between vehicles can easily lead to traffic accidents. If the weight is concentrated in the trunk area, the rear of the vehicle will sag downward, affecting driving dynamics. This is particularly dangerous during uphill, downhill, and turning maneuvers, where loss of control becomes more likely. Leaf spring usage: Overloading the drivetrain and leaf springs causes continuous rebound during operation, significantly shortening the springs' service life.

[Lillian]

I think an SUV can handle 500 jin (250 kg) of cargo without much trouble, as long as you don’t do it too often. Last time, I drove a Highlander to help a friend move, stuffing the trunk with bookshelf parts and small furniture—probably around 300 jin (150 kg). It drove 40 km on a dirt road without any issues. The key is to check the vehicle’s maximum load capacity. Generally, mid-size SUVs are rated for 400–600 kg, and 500 jin is only 250 kg. Just avoid speeding, slow down over bumps, and secure the heavy items to prevent shifting. SUVs with higher ground clearance have suspensions that can handle it, but don’t push it daily. The biggest risk is tire or suspension deformation—if you notice the steering pulling or knocking noises, get the chassis checked immediately.

[SanEmilio]

Carrying 250kg is not a big deal for an SUV, but pay attention to the placement of the load. I once stacked an entire box of bricks at the very back of the trunk, and during a long drive, I could feel the rear end sagging noticeably. Now I've learned better—place heavy items in the middle and slightly forward to balance the weight distribution. Especially avoid letting heavy objects hit the spare tire well or bend the floor support brackets. Mechanics say these hidden damages are the hardest to detect. Also, make sure to adjust the tire pressure to the full-load standard, or you risk a blowout. Remember, turning on the AC can lighten the load a bit because the engine provides extra power when the compressor kicks in.

[MacFaith]

From a mechanical structure perspective, a 250kg load is absolutely nothing for a body-on-frame off-road SUV. It's common to see pickup-truck-based SUVs carrying half a ton of cargo. The leaf springs and shock absorbers on our family SUVs are specifically designed for load-bearing. However, be cautious with vehicles over five years old. Like my old CR-V last year when hauling rice, the rear suspension bushings cracked directly. The repair shop said long-term overloading can cause axle shaft oil seals to leak and differential gears to chip. It's best to check the control arm bushings monthly and head straight for repairs if you hear any abnormal noises from the chassis.