3 Signs That Your Trailer Braking System Needs Some Attention

Whether you pull your trailer for recreation or for work safety is probably your number one priority. One of the first and most important things is to ensure that your trailer's braking system works properly, but you might not know what to look for. Luckily, looking for these things can help you spot any potential problems; then, if necessary, you can take your trailer in to a professional for trailer repair.

1. Your Brake Lights Don't Work Properly

When your vehicle is connected properly to your trailer, then the brakes on your trailer should work simultaneously with the brake lights on your car, truck or SUV. If they don't, then there could be a wiring issue, a brake light issue, or you may not have connected the trailer to your vehicle properly. Regardless, it's important to address this problem before operating your vehicle and trailer; otherwise, you could be at an increased risk of a rear-end collision or other accident.

2. You Hear Strange Brake-Related Noises

You probably wouldn't ignore the problem if your vehicle's brakes started making strange noises, and you shouldn't ignore the issue if your trailer brakes start making these sounds, either. The sounds may range from a grinding sound to a squealing sound or somewhere in-between. These sounds could be an indication of a few different problems; your trailer might need new brakes, or your braking system might need some lubrication.

3. Your Trailer isn't Stopping Effectively

When you press the brakes on your car, truck or SUV, your trailer should immediately slow down at the same rate. If it doesn't seem to be slowly down as quickly, or if it slows down too quickly and "lags' behind your vehicle, then there's a problem. You could be in need of new brake pads or other new braking components, or there could be a chance that your vehicle is not connected properly to your trailer due to a wiring issue. Regardless, it's imperative to have the issue looked at as soon as possible; otherwise, you could be at risk of an accident.

No matter what you might use your trailer for, it's important to make sure that your braking system works properly. Luckily, looking for these three signs can help you figure out these problems before something dangerous happens. If you notice any of them, it's critical to see a trailer repair company as soon as possible.


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