GVM, BTC & GCM upgrades

A GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) upgrade is a certified suspension modification that raises your vehicle’s legal fully-loaded weight limit. It upgrades springs, shocks and sometimes braking and other components so you can safely and legally carry more, which matters once you add bull bars, drawers, canopies, long-range tanks and touring gear.

As a guide, a GVM upgrade in Australia typically runs from around $2,500 to $6,000, depending on the vehicle, the brand and kit, and whether it is done pre- or post-registration. We quote before any work begins, so send your vehicle details and we will confirm an all-in, fitted-and-certified price.

Yes, when fitted by an authorised installer and certified to the requirements that apply to your vehicle and state. As an authorised fitter, we supply and fit to the manufacturer’s approval and coordinate the certification and paperwork, whether your vehicle is new or already registered.

A pre-registration upgrade is completed before the vehicle is first registered and is recognised nationally, with no separate engineering certificate required. A post-registration upgrade is fitted to a vehicle already on the road and certified by a licensed engineer through the state modification process. We offer both and will advise which suits your vehicle and timing.

Not on its own. A GVM upgrade raises how much the vehicle itself can carry; your Braked Towing Capacity (BTC) and Gross Combination Mass (GCM) stay as the manufacturer set them unless you also do an approved BTC or GCM upgrade. Some kits, such as selected Lovells applications, offer GCM increases, mostly pre-registration. Tell us how you tow and we will confirm what applies.

In a good way. A properly engineered, certified and plated upgrade keeps your vehicle insurable and legally registered, and it helps you avoid the insurance problems that come with running overloaded.

Running over your GVM can mean fines and defect notices, denied insurance claims after an accident, compromised braking and handling, and accelerated wear on your chassis, driveline, brakes and tyres.

We supply and fit certified kits from Lovells, Tough Dog, Terrain Tamer and Outback Armour. Each brand page lists its ratings and vehicle compatibility, and we will recommend the right kit for how you load and use your 4×4.

Use any Get a quote button on this page, or call the workshop on (02) 4041 4080. Tell us your vehicle and how you load it, and we will confirm the right kit, rating and certification path.