top of page
SBS DEC 2019-46.jpg

HOW TO COMPLETE CHECKS ON MY TRAILER

Before every journey, it’s important to carry out a few simple checks on your trailer. These quick checks can help keep you safe, avoid breakdowns, and ensure your trailer is legal to tow.

P1080155.JPG

01

Tyres

What to check: 

  • Tyre pressure - Make sure tyres are inflated correctly. The tyre will show a maximum pressure on the sidewall for maximum load.

  • ​Tread depth - Tyres have enough tread and are not worn down, you can use a tyre gauge to help with your checks. The minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm but it is safer to replace your tyres before you reach this level. 

  • General condition - Make sure there are no visible cracks, bulges or nails before you start your journey. 

     

02

Tow Hitch and Coupling

What to check:

  • Hitch properly connect to vehicle - Lower the trailer onto the tow ball until it clicks into place. 

  • ​The locking mechanism is secure - it should be fully engaged and properly seated on the tow ball with no looseness.

P1080090.JPG
P1080131.JPG

03

Breakaway cable/Safety chain

What to check:

  • Attached to Vehicle - ​Make sure that this is correctly attached to the towing vehicle 

  • Tow ball - Not wrapped around the tow ball (where possible)

04

Lights and Indicators

What to check: 

  • Brake lights - Make sure the brake lights come on when you press the brake pedal

  • Indicators - Check all indicators are flashing correctly and in sync with your towing vehicle

  • Side/ Tail lights - Ensure all side and rear lights are working and clearly visible

  • Number plate light - Check the number plate light is working (if fitted) so your registration can be seen in low light

  • General operation – Walk around the trailer while the lights are on to confirm everything is working properly and there are no flickering or dim lights​​

Hunt.jpg
Propeller Boat Transport 3.jpg

05

Electrical Connection

What to check: 

  • Plug connection - Make sure the plug is securely connected to your towing vehicle and fully pushed into place​​

  • Pins condition - Check there is no damage, dirt, or corrosion on the pins that could affect the connection

  • Cable position - Ensure the cable has enough slack for turning but is not dragging on the ground

  • General operation - Once connected, check that all lights are working correctly to confirm a proper electrical connection

Propeller Boat Transport 3.jpg

06

Load Security

What to check: 

Securing the load - Make sure your load is properly secured using straps so it cannot shift during travel

Weight placement -  Spread the weight evenly to keep the trailer stable (where possible) 

General Safety - Ensure nothing is overhanging or at risk of falling out during transit                                                                                                                                   

Chris Caton.jpg

07

Weight and Balance

What to check: 

  • Trailer load - Check your maximum weight capacity and ensure your trailer is not loaded beyond the maximum weight limit

  • Weight distribution -  Ensure the weight is evenly spread across the trailer to keep it stable while towing

  • Front-to-rear balance - Avoid placing too much weight at the rear, as this can cause instability and poor handling 

  • General Safety - The trailer should sit level when connected to the towing vehicle, not tilting forwards or backwards

                                                                                                                   

08

Wheel Nuts

What to check: 

  • Tightness - Make sure all wheel nuts are tightened securely before starting your journey

  • General condition -  Look for any signs of damage, rust or looseness around the wheel fixing points                  

  • Safety check -  It’s good practice to recheck wheel nuts after the first few miles, especially after a wheel has been removed or replaced                                                                                 

SBS ALLOY.jpg
TRAILERS ON STAND BSHOW.jpg

09

Brakes (If fitted)

What to check: 

  • Brake operation - Check that the trailer brakes are working correctly when you apply the brakes in your towing vehicle

  • Response - Make sure the brakes engage promptly and do not feel weak or delayed

  • General condition - If the trailer has not been used for a while or you notice anything unusual, have the braking system checked before towing                                                                        

10

General Visual Checks

What to check: 

  • Overall Condition - Walk around the trailer and check for any visible damage, loose parts, or anything out of place 

  • Mudguards – Check mudguards are firmly in place and not damaged or loose     

  • Signs of wear – Look for rust, corrosion, or worn components that may affect safety     

  • General safety – If anything looks unusual or doesn’t seem right, have it checked before towing                                                

20200320_112724 (002).jpg
bottom of page