Used Trailer Inspection Guide

Used trailers can be an affordable, budget-friendly option, but not all of them might be a good deal. There might be some hidden issues that could result in costly repair bills. It's important to thoroughly inspect a used trailer before buying it, but it can be tough to keep track of everything you need to look over. That’s why we created the following checklist to make your used trailer inspection process a breeze!

Why Inspecting the Rig is important?

Once you find a used trailer you are interested in, you must thoroughly inspect the unit to identify any red flags. Some pre-owned trailers may look great at first but are riddled with major issues underneath the surface. Give the unit a thorough inspection to uncover any existing or potential problems.

Performing Various Checks

A great place to begin is with the floor of the trailer. See if you can spot any signs of damage such as corrosion. While you are at it, don't forget to look under the trailer floor. Next, you’ll want to check the tires. Make sure that there aren’t any cracks, uneven wear, dry rot, or bulges. The wheel bearings should have proper lubrication and tightness. Test the hitch to see if it’s easy to latch and unlatch it.

Next, move on to the electrical components, including the brakes and lights. The brakes should be in good condition and make a note of any obvious damage to the pads. Trailer suspension is often one of the first things to be damaged in a pre-owned rig, so check the leaf springs and hangers for cracks or breaks. This is also the right time to see if the suspension has been repaired or replaced, which could mean a history of impact. If the model passes inspection and is within your budget, then you are good to go!

We hope you found this guide helpful! If you have any questions or want to explore used trailers for sale, visit True Value Trailers & Power Equipment in Penrose and Florence, CO. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you find the perfect model for your budget and needs. We are proud to serve Pueblo and Colorado Springs.