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How much weight can a 2017 Honda Civic hold?

The 2017 Honda Civic typically offers about 1,000 pounds of payload capacity, which covers both passengers and cargo. The exact amount depends on trim, options, and installed equipment, so it’s important to verify the numbers on your specific car.


To understand and verify the exact capacity for a given Civic, you need to compare the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) with its curb weight. Below is a practical guide to what these figures mean, how to calculate payload for your car, and how to think about towing or roof-load limits where applicable.


Understanding payload for the 2017 Civic


Payload capacity is the maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo that a vehicle can carry safely. For the 2017 Civic, this value is determined by subtracting the curb weight (the car’s own weight with standard equipment and fluids) from the GVWR (the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle plus everything inside it, including passengers, cargo, and fuel).



  • Payload typically ranges from about 900 to 1,200 pounds for the 2017 Civic, depending on trim, options, and installed accessories.

  • Actual payload for your specific car equals GVWR minus curb weight; the door jamb placard or owner’s manual provides exact numbers for your vehicle.


Because exact weights vary by trim and equipment, always use the numbers printed on your car’s placard or in the owner’s manual to determine the precise payload.


How to calculate the exact payload for your Civic


Use these steps to determine your vehicle’s precise payload capacity and how close you are to the limit with your load.



  1. Locate the GVWR and curb weight for your Civic on the door jamb placard or in the owner’s manual or specifications sheet.

  2. Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to obtain the payload capacity.

  3. Add up the actual weights of all passengers and cargo you plan to carry to see how close you are to the payload limit.

  4. Distribute weight safely (preferably with more weight toward the front wheels if you are near the limit) and avoid exceeding the GVWR or any axle-specific limits noted in the manual.


Following these steps helps ensure safe loading and preserves handling, braking, and overall performance.


Towing and roof-load guidance


The 2017 Honda Civic does not publish a towing capacity; towing with this model is not recommended by Honda. If you need to haul trailers or heavy loads regularly, consider a vehicle designed for towing. For roof-mounted cargo, refer to the owner’s manual for the maximum roof load; common limits are around 100 pounds, but exact figures vary by model and roof configuration. Always verify the roof-load specification for your exact vehicle before using a roof rack or cargo box.


Additional considerations for loading safely


Overloading can affect braking, steering, and handling, and it can also accelerate wear on suspension components. Distribute weight evenly, avoid concentrating load in a single area, and respect both payload and any axle-specific limits outlined by Honda.


Summary


In practice, a 2017 Honda Civic generally supports about 1,000 pounds of combined passengers and cargo, with a typical range of 900–1,200 pounds. To know the exact figure for your car, check the GVWR and curb weight on the door jamb placard or owner’s manual and subtract one from the other. There is no official towing rating for this model, and roof-load limits vary by configuration, so consult the manual before adding external racks or equipment. Always prioritize safe distribution and avoid surpassing the vehicle’s published limits.

Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.