Buying used trailers can save you money, but the overall condition and how it was cared for should be considered before purchasing. The size specifications and vehicle towing capacity should also be taken into account. Look for dents and rust, and make sure the trailer guards are in good condition. Checking for wiring issues is also important and can be costly if overlooked.

Inspect the Hitch

The hitch is the part that connects the trailer to your truck, so it’s important to inspect it carefully. Look for signs of wear, damage, or rust. Also, be sure the coupler is secure and that it’s safe to attach a safety chain. Check for leaks by spraying each seal with a hose and observing damp areas. Have a professional power wash the whole trailer if there’s any doubt. It will also help you determine whether the paint has been damaged by sun exposure or other factors that might cause it to deteriorate over time.

Wiring is more challenging to examine visually than the body of a trailer, but it’s still important to inspect thoroughly. Look for any exposed wiring and test all the lights to ensure the used trailers are good to go. If you notice any issues, ask the seller if they’ll allow you to hire an electrician to do a professional inspection before purchasing. Whether you’re looking for an RV or a simple travel trailer, it’s important to think about how often and for how long you plan to use the trailer. 

Inspect the Floor

When buying used trailers for sale, it’s important to thoroughly examine the inside and outside of the vehicle. You want to ensure it is in good condition and fits your needs. Getting a trailer with specific features like kitchens or bathrooms will be especially true. Start by examining the exterior and looking for any rust or damage. It will help you determine if the trailer is worth the price. It would help if you also were on the lookout for any signs of water damage, such as leaking windows or doors. Lastly, it would help if you examined the trailer’s floor to ensure it is in good condition.

While inspecting the trailer, asking the seller questions about its history is important. You will want to know how much it has been used and for what. In addition, you should ask the seller to provide maintenance documentation and any accident or service records. Finally, it is a good idea to ask the seller about the warranty on the trailer. Knowing that you will be covered if something goes wrong with the trailer will give you peace of mind. 

Inspect the Bearings

The trailer’s wheel bearings allow the wheels to rotate. If they are in poor condition, the wheels could seize up on the road — which is annoying and dangerous for you and your vehicle and expensive to fix. Check the bearings of the used trailers by jacking each wheel and listening for growling, whining or grinding noises. If you hear these sounds, the wheel bearings are in poor condition, and the trailer should be dropped from your buying list. Another important factor to consider when looking at a used trailer is its frame. If the structure has been cracked, the trailer was likely overloaded or built improperly.

A damaged frame is an expensive problem requiring a new trailer. Finally, check the wiring in a trailer to ensure all the lights work and the electric brakes function properly. It is an area that’s often overlooked but can be a major hassle in the future. Wiring that is chewed by mice, eroded by water or otherwise compromised can lead to numerous problems in the future. Overall, a used trailer should look clean and well-maintained. The general appearance of a trailer paints a picture of how the owner treated it and whether they were diligent about maintenance. 

Inspect the Tires

The condition of the tires on a trailer is essential to its function and safety. Check that they are in good shape, with ample tread, and inflated to the recommended pressure. Also, when buying used trailers look for any cracks or punctures on the sidewalls. If you find a punctured tire, note the amount of lost air and ensure it was not caused by a foreign object wedged in the sidewall (this can happen when driving). Also, check that the tires are matched set and not underinflated since this could cause them to wear unevenly and result in a shaky ride.

While surface rust on the body of a trailer is not a huge deal, if the metal components look like they have been neglected, it indicates that the trailer may need to be in better condition. It is especially important if the trailer is stored for a long time and in areas where road salt is used during winter; corrosion will accelerate. While at it, inspect the wheel hubs to ensure they are not hotter than usual. If they are, it could indicate that the bearings are going bad. It’s much easier and cheaper to replace the bearings in your driveway than beside a highway with cars flying by at 65 mph.