Do You Need a GVM Upgrade with Your Suspension Lift Kit?
Businesses / Posted 9 hours ago by Opposite Lock Cardiff / 3 views / New
If you’re considering a Suspension lift kit for your 4WD, there’s another upgrade that’s often overlooked but just as important — a GVM upgrade. Many Aussie off-roaders and tourers find themselves overloaded without realising it, leading to fines, insurance issues, and even dangerous driving conditions.
In this article, we’ll explain what a GVM upgrade is, when you need one, and how it connects with your suspension lift kit.
What Is a GVM Upgrade?
GVM stands for Gross Vehicle Mass, which is the maximum legal weight your vehicle can carry — including the weight of the vehicle itself, passengers, cargo, fuel, and accessories.
A GVM upgrade increases this legal limit by upgrading critical components like the suspension system, allowing you to carry more weight legally and safely.
Why GVM Matters After a Suspension Lift Kit
Many 4WD owners install lift kits for better ground clearance, off-road articulation, and appearance. But lifting your suspension doesn’t automatically mean your vehicle can legally carry more weight.
Here’s the issue:
A suspension lift kit improves off-road performance, but it doesn’t increase your GVM unless it’s engineered and certified as part of a GVM upgrade package.
So, if you’re fitting heavier accessories like:
Rear drawers
Camping gear or towing setups
…you may be exceeding your GVM without knowing it.
Signs You Might Need a GVM Upgrade
Ask yourself:
Do you carry a lot of gear for long trips or camping?
Is your 4WD used for towing a caravan, trailer, or boat?
Have you already added multiple accessories like bar work or canopies?
Do your rear springs sag when loaded?
Do you plan to travel in remote areas where recovery is difficult?
If the answer is yes to any of these, a GVM upgrade is highly recommended — and often necessary.
Is It Legal to Upgrade Both Suspension and GVM Together?
Yes — in fact, it’s the best and safest way to go. But it must be:
Engineered and approved
Compliant with your state or territory’s laws
Installed by a licensed workshop
Certified either pre- or post-registration (depending on your vehicle’s status)
Top GVM & Suspension Brands in Australia
Here are some trusted suspension and GVM upgrade kits available for Australian 4WDs:
Tough Dog Suspension Lift Kits
Raw 4×4 Suspension & GVM Solutions
Fulcrum Suspension GVM Packages
Airbag Man GVM Load Assist Kits
Brands like Tough Dog and Dobinsons offer fully engineered, ADR-compliant GVM upgrade kits that include upgraded springs, shocks, and documentation for certification.
GVM Upgrade: Pre-Registration vs Post-Registration
Pre-Registration GVM Upgrade
Done before the vehicle is registered (ideal for new vehicles)
Offers higher increase in GVM
Easier process
Post-Registration GVM Upgrade
Done after the vehicle is already registered
May have lower GVM increase limits
Requires an engineering certificate and inspection
Insurance & Road Safety Risks Without a GVM Upgrade
Overloading your 4WD without a GVM upgrade can:
Void your insurance in the event of a claim
Lead to defect notices or fines
Damage your suspension, brakes, and drivetrain
Increase stopping distances
Cause poor handling, especially on uneven terrain
Conclusion: Should You Get a GVM Upgrade?
If you’re lifting your 4WD and adding gear for touring or work, a GVM upgrade isn’t just optional — it’s smart, legal, and often essential.
While a suspension lift improves performance, it doesn’t allow you to carry more weight unless paired with an approved GVM upgrade kit.
Talk to the 4WD experts at Opposite Lock Cardiff. We’ll help you choose the right suspension lift and GVM solution to suit your lifestyle, while keeping you safe and road-legal across Australia.
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