How often does a trailer need to undergo a roadworthiness test?

Trailers with their own registration number must undergo a general inspection at regular intervals. For car trailers, this is usually every two years; the next due date is shown on the inspection sticker attached to the registration number.

Items checked include: the braking system and overrun brake, lights, tyres (tread depth, age, damage), the chassis and bodywork, and the ball coupling for signs of wear.

Typical faults that can be rectified in advance:

• worn brake shoes or uneven braking performance
• stuck brake cables
• faulty lights and corroded plug contacts
• porous or aged tyres
• worn ball coupling
• Damaged breakaway cable

If you check these points beforehand, you’ll usually avoid having to go for a follow-up inspection.