Whether you use your trailer for work, recreation or occasional hauling, regular servicing is essential to keep it roadworthy, safe and reliable. Just like a car or van, a trailer is subject to wear and tear each time it’s used—and neglecting maintenance can quickly lead to problems that affect not only performance but also legality. From commercial trailers and box trailers to horseboxes and boat trailers, knowing how often to service yours can help you avoid breakdowns, fines and safety risks.
Unlike motor vehicles, trailers don’t always have a strict service schedule set out by manufacturers. That means it’s down to the owner to assess usage, monitor condition and stick to a sensible maintenance routine. Servicing isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s about preventing the kind of faults that can cause issues on the road or put others at risk.
General Servicing Frequency Guidelines
As a general rule, trailers should be professionally serviced at least once a year. This annual check helps identify worn components, address potential safety concerns, and ensure that all systems are functioning as they should. For trailers used more frequently or for heavier loads, a more regular service may be required—especially if the trailer is clocking up high mileage or operating in harsh conditions.
Commercial trailers or those used daily for business purposes should be inspected more often, with some fleet operators opting for services every six months. Trailers carrying livestock, vehicles or plant equipment may face additional strain and should be checked thoroughly to prevent failure at critical moments. Those towing trailers for long distances or across uneven terrain should also consider more frequent servicing intervals.
What a Trailer Service Involves
A full trailer service goes beyond a simple tyre check or light test. It typically includes a thorough inspection of key components such as brakes, suspension, wheels, tyres, lights, couplings and chassis condition. Brake shoes, drums, cables and mechanisms are all checked and adjusted if necessary. Wheel bearings are examined, cleaned and re-greased to prevent overheating or failure during towing.
Electrics are inspected for corrosion or damage, including the wiring to rear lights, indicators and sockets. The tow hitch and jockey wheel are assessed for smooth operation, wear and correct alignment. The condition of tyres is particularly important, as trailers often stand still for long periods and sidewalls can perish even if tread depth looks acceptable.
Regular servicing also provides an opportunity to spot any damage to the trailer frame, floor or panels. Water ingress, rust or minor structural cracks can be picked up early, allowing for repairs before they become more serious or costly.
Road Safety and Legal Responsibility
In the UK, trailers used on the road must be kept in a condition that complies with road safety laws. If your trailer is found to have defective brakes, tyres or lights, it could lead to penalties, invalidate your insurance, or result in a dangerous incident. Regular servicing helps to prove that you’ve taken reasonable steps to maintain your trailer and meet your obligations as a responsible road user.
For commercial trailer operators, there may also be rules set out by the DVSA or under Operator Licence requirements, particularly for larger trailers or those used in the transport of goods or equipment. Keeping service records up to date is part of maintaining compliance, and can also support resale value when it comes time to upgrade.
Spot-Checks Between Services
While annual servicing is essential, regular visual checks between services can help catch early signs of wear or damage. A quick inspection before each journey can pick up obvious issues like low tyre pressure, broken lights, loose bolts or visible damage. Keeping the trailer clean and checking for unusual noises or dragging when towing can also alert you to developing problems.
If your trailer is stored outside, the effects of weather, damp or rust may accelerate wear on certain components. Covering the trailer or storing it under shelter when not in use can reduce the impact of the elements and help preserve its condition between services.
Knowing When to Service Sooner
There are some situations where a trailer may need to be serviced sooner than expected. If you notice uneven tyre wear, difficulty braking, swaying at speed or unusual noises, it’s worth booking a service as soon as possible. Similarly, if the trailer has been involved in an incident, even a minor one, a check-up can ensure no internal damage has occurred that could compromise safety later on.
Seasonal usage also plays a role. If you only use your trailer in the summer months or store it over winter, it’s a good idea to have it serviced before its first use of the year. Components can seize, rubber parts may dry out, and brake systems can lose effectiveness if left idle for long periods.
Trailer Type and Usage Make a Difference
The frequency of servicing should always reflect how the trailer is used and what it’s designed for. A lightweight trailer used for the occasional trip to the tip may only need a basic annual service, while a twin-axle trailer used daily for building materials will require more regular and thorough maintenance.
Horseboxes, boat trailers and car transporters carry valuable or sensitive loads, and any failure could have serious consequences. In these cases, investing in preventative maintenance through regular servicing is not only wise but often expected as part of responsible ownership.
Keeping Your Trailer Reliable and Safe
Servicing your trailer regularly isn’t just about staying within the law—it’s about ensuring the safety of yourself, your passengers, other road users and the load you’re carrying. A well-maintained trailer tows better, brakes more predictably and is far less likely to let you down when you need it most.
Whether you use your trailer once a week or once a season, having a clear plan for its upkeep means fewer surprises, lower long-term costs, and more confidence on the road. Working with a trusted trailer service specialist can help you keep your trailer in peak condition all year round, and give you expert advice tailored to your specific type of use.