Suspension & GVM Upgrades

SUSPENSION & GVM UPGRADES

Ready for the Road, the Load, and the Return Trip.

At 4x4 And Outdoor, we specialise in professional suspension upgrades and GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) upgrades to help your vehicle handle more, tow safely, and stay compliant — whether you’re touring the outback, hauling heavy loads, or towing a caravan across the country.

We work with all vehicle types and brands — from LandCruisers and Rangers to other utes, wagons, and newer 4WD models — and we’ll help you understand exactly what your vehicle can handle and what it needs.

Whether you’re prepping for Cape York or setting up your brand-new tow rig, our expert team in Brisbane and the Gold Coast has you covered. And we don’t just help you head off on your next adventure — we make sure you get home safely too.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast

What’s a Suspension or GVM Upgrade — and Why Do You Need One?

If you’re adding accessories, loading up for work, towing a caravan, or heading off-road, chances are your factory suspension and weight limits won’t cut it. That’s where professional upgrades come in.

A suspension upgrade enhances your 4WD’s ride quality, handling, load-carrying ability, and ground clearance. It typically involves replacing the standard springs and shock absorbers with heavy-duty alternatives that are matched to your vehicle’s weight and usage. In some cases, we’ll also install airbag systems for load levelling or adjustable shocks to fine-tune your ride. Depending on your setup, additional components like upgraded upper control arms or sway bar spacers may also be included to maintain proper geometry and performance.

A GVM upgrade increases the legal weight your vehicle can carry once fully loaded — including passengers, fuel, gear, and fitted accessories. This process involves upgrading the suspension using ADR-compliant parts, conducting brake testing, and submitting all the necessary paperwork through the appropriate compliance channels. Once approved, your vehicle receives a new compliance plate and documentation, ensuring your setup is both legal and insurable.

Whether you’re towing a van, heading into remote regions, or simply adding more gear to your build, these upgrades aren’t just about performance — they’re critical for safety, compliance, and peace of mind.

GVM vs GCM vs BTC – What’s the Difference?

Understanding these three acronyms is key to setting up your 4WD legally and safely:

GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass): The maximum your vehicle can legally weigh when fully loaded — including passengers, fuel, accessories, water, gear, and towball download.
GCM (Gross Combined Mass): The maximum total weight of your vehicle + trailer/caravan combined. Not all vehicles can be upgraded — it depends on the make/model.
BTC (Braked Towing Capacity): The legal maximum weight of a braked trailer that your vehicle can tow. But remember - depending on the make / model of the tow vehicle, you can’t always tow up to your BTC if your vehicle is already loaded close to the GVM.

We help you calculate all three, so you know exactly what your vehicle can handle, legally and safely — no guesswork, no risk.

Start Your Upgrade Right — With the Right Setup

Suspension and GVM upgrades aren’t one-size-fits-all. The right system depends on what you carry, what you tow, and how you drive — and if it’s not done properly, it can lead to serious safety issues, legal trouble, or insurance complications.

Not sure what your vehicle can legally tow or carry? That’s what we’re here for.

We’ll weigh your setup (including trailers or caravans), run through all your specs, and guide you through the safest and most effective upgrade path. No pressure — just facts, figures, and real-world experience.

We’ll help you:

Understand your real-world GVM limits
Determine what upgrades are needed
Weigh your vehicle before and after the upgrade
Set up for safe towing with caravans or trailers
Meet legal requirements for tyres, brakes and suspension
Avoid fines or invalid insurance policies

Professional Suspension & GVM Upgrades – Brisbane & Gold Coast

Our team handles the full process — from consultation to installation, compliance testing, and engineering sign-off — with safety, legality, and load performance in mind.

12-month installation warranty, plus all manufacturer warranties
Suspension upgrades and full GVM compliance
Pre-registration and post-registration GVM upgrade options
Brake testing, engineering certification, and documentation
All upgrades completed to comply with Australian Design Rules (ADR)
Certified brands like TJM, XGS, Lovells, Airbag Man, Superior Engineering, Tough Dog, Polyair, EFS

We also organise a wheel alignment and can advise on tyre and wheel upgrades to match your suspension and weight rating.

Flexible Payment Options Available

We know that suspension and GVM upgrades are a big investment — but they’re worth doing right.

Choose Zip to buy now and pay later, or take advantage of dealer finance if you're purchasing a new vehicle — we can help bundle your fitout costs into your vehicle finance from day one.

How the Upgrade Process Works

Step 1: Talk to Us
Call or enquire online with your vehicle details and your load or towing plans. We’ll run through your goals and confirm if an upgrade is needed.

Step 2: Assess & Quote
We’ll weigh your vehicle if required, inspect for wear and tear, and put together a clear quote with your best upgrade options.

Step 3: Book Your Install
Once approved, we order the required components and book in your installation. Most jobs take 2–3 days, depending on the vehicle and upgrade type.

Step 4: Install & Certify
We carry out all mechanical work, compliance testing, brake tests and a final check. You’ll get a new compliance plate and full paperwork.

Step 5: Register & Drive Away
We’ll help you with any post-upgrade registration requirements. Then you’re ready to tow, tour, and travel — legally and safely.

Start Your Suspension or GVM Upgrade Today

Don’t risk overloading your 4WD — get a suspension or GVM upgrade that’s engineered for safety, comfort, and performance.

Call 4x4 And Outdoor or enquire online today. We’ll help you build a setup that works — for you, your vehicle, and the road ahead.

Contact our team

Have a question around a product or need a fit out? Speak to our local experts. Enter your details using the form and our team will aim to get back to you within the next business day.

You can also contact us using the details below.