Useful information for trailer owners. These guides do not replace inspection of a specific trailer, but they explain what commonly goes wrong and what to watch for.
Before every journey
Check coupling security, breakaway cable where fitted, jockey wheel position, lights, tyres, wheel security, load restraint and anything visibly loose or damaged.
After storage
Look closely for tyre cracking, brake seizure, rodent or moisture damage to wiring, corrosion and signs that hubs or wheels are not rotating normally.
Hot wheel or hub
Abnormal heat can indicate brake drag, bearing trouble or another fault. Continuing to tow can turn a repairable problem into a serious failure.
Intermittent lights
Do not assume the lamp itself is faulty. Plugs, cable, earth continuity and corroded joints commonly cause faults that appear only with vibration or movement.
Tyres with good tread
Still inspect the sidewalls and shoulders. Age cracking and structural damage can matter more than remaining tread on a low-mileage trailer.
Annual servicing
Annual servicing is a common baseline for many braked trailers, but manufacturer guidance, mileage, load, storage and commercial use can justify different intervals.