What is the gross combined weight rating?

The gross combined weight rating (GCWR) refers to the maximum allowable weight of a vehicle when it is combined with its trailer and any cargo it may be carrying. This rating is crucial for safe towing operations, as it helps ensure that the vehicle operates within its designed performance specifications and does not put excessive strain on its structure and mechanical components. Understanding the GCWR helps drivers adhere to legal weight limits and promotes safety on the road by ensuring that the vehicle and trailer combination can be handled properly.

The other options provided do not accurately represent the definition of GCWR. For instance, the maximum weight of the vehicle alone refers to the manufacturer's specifications for that particular vehicle without considering any additional load or trailer. Similarly, the weight of the vehicle when empty describes its curb weight, and the total payload capacity of the axles pertains to the weight that can be supported by the axles alone without considering the trailer. Thus, the correct understanding of GCWR as the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer is essential for responsible towing practices.