When a part of your trailer starts to go bad, everything from ride quality to cargo capacity can be impacted. Additionally, problems with the trailer generally put added strain on the towing vehicle, which can result in the need for further repair work.
With that in mind, it's worth fixing any problems as soon as they develop, and one common problem area is the suspension. Given that trailers often cover rough terrain and carry heavy loads, the suspension system will be one of the hardest working parts. Unfortunately, no trailer's suspension system will last forever, so here are just five signs that yours may need attention.
1. Sagging
Sagging is one of the most common signs of poor trailer suspension. When the trailer seems to sag when it's loaded with cargo, the springs are probably worn out beyond repair. In most cases, you will notice a trailer with worn suspension springs sagging to the side, front or back.
2. Swaying and Bouncing
Suspension systems are designed to prevent swaying, but they may be less able to do this as parts wear out. This is because the weight will not be evenly distributed. You may also notice your trailer bouncing excessively as you drive, potentially even damaging your cargo. As well as making the ride uncomfortable, this can dangerously reduce your control over the vehicle.
3. Regular Noise
Most trailers only have a few moving parts. Since the suspension system is one of them, it is likely to make sounds, but these should be infrequent and only occur when your trailer is heavily loaded. However, you should be concerned if your trailer's suspension seems to be producing regular noise during each drive, especially if those sounds are worse when you cover rough terrain or go over bumps.
4. Uneven Tyre Wear
When your trailer's suspension starts to go bad, the tyres will often be put under unequal pressure since the weight will not be distributed properly. Even before you notice your trailer sagging, you may be able to identify problems by checking the tyres. If one tyre seems to be wearing down differently from the others, bad suspension may be the root cause.
5. Difficult Handling
Issues with your trailer's suspension system can put added strain on your vehicle, and this often translates into poor handling. You'll typically find that steering your vehicle becomes more of a challenge. In many cases, it will seem to pull to one side. This can put your safety in jeopardy, especially when travelling at high speeds, so it's never a problem you should ignore.
Contact a local company to learn more about trailer repair services.
Share29 August 2023
Hi, my name is Katy, and I love to go on long road trips. However, I also know how scary it is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere when your car needs a repair. Because of that, I have figured out which repairs are essential before you go on a long journey. If you are planning a long journey, please explore these posts, tips and ideas. I hope they help you hone on which repairs or services your automobile needs before your next journey. In this blog, I cover everything from services to packing lists and more. Enjoy and thanks for reading!
