Chevrolet 2009 Cobalt Owner's Manual page 247

And, if you do have a heavy load, you should
spread it out. See "Steps for Determining Correct
Load Limit" earlier in this section.
CAUTION:
{
Do not load the vehicle any heavier than the
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or
either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on
the vehicle can break, and it can change the
way your vehicle handles. These could
cause you to lose control and crash. Also,
overloading can shorten the life of the vehicle.
If you put things inside your vehicle — like
suitcases, tools, packages, or anything
else — they will go as fast as the vehicle
goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if
there is a crash, they will keep going.
CAUTION:
{
Things you put inside the vehicle can strike
and injure people in a sudden stop or turn,
or in a crash.
•
Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In
a trunk, put them as far forward as you
can. Try to spread the weight evenly.
•
Never stack heavier things, like
suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some
of them are above the tops of the seats.
•
Do not leave an unsecured child restraint
in the vehicle.
•
When you carry something inside the
vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
•
Do not leave a seat folded down unless
you need to.
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