As the cooler months approach, trailer owners across Australia—especially in Sydney and wider New South Wales—should start preparing their equipment for lower temperatures, damp conditions, and reduced daylight. Autumn is the ideal time to conduct preventative maintenance that will protect your trailer from rust, damage, and performance issues.
At United Trailers, we believe seasonal upkeep plays a critical role in ensuring your trailer remains roadworthy, reliable, and ready to tow all year round. Here’s how to maintain your trailer as the weather turns.
Inspect Tyres for Wear and Pressure
As temperatures drop, tyre pressure tends to decrease. Check your tyres for proper inflation and examine them for uneven wear or cracking. Trailers like tandem axle trailers or box trailers often carry heavy loads, making proper tread and air pressure vital for road safety.
Don’t forget to inspect the spare tyre, especially if you’re planning autumn getaways or work trips on varied terrain.
Clean and Protect Galvanised Surfaces
Autumn often brings wet leaves, dirt, and moisture—all of which can affect your trailer’s metal surfaces. Even though galvanised trailers are built to resist rust, regular washing and inspection are still essential.
Use a non-acidic cleaner to remove grime and dry thoroughly before storing. Keeping your trailer clean prevents long-term corrosion and preserves its structural integrity.
Test Brake Systems Thoroughly
Before wet-weather driving becomes routine, it’s critical to inspect your trailer’s braking components. This is especially important for tandem trailers and tipper trailers used in commercial settings.
Check electric brake wiring for damage or rusted connectors and confirm the brake controller is working properly. Adjustments may be required as road conditions become slick or muddy.
Re-Grease Moving Parts and Couplings
Cooler weather increases the chance of friction and wear, especially on parts like the tow coupling, jockey wheel, and hinges. Re-apply high-quality grease to all essential joints and pivot points.
Frequent towing during autumn—such as hauling loads in trailer with cage models—makes lubrication even more important to prevent seizure or accelerated wear.
Check Electrical Connections and Lighting
Autumn often brings reduced daylight and increased rainfall. Ensure your trailer lights are working properly—including brake lights, indicators, and reverse lights.
Inspect wiring for water ingress or cracking, particularly on older enclosed trailers or trailers that have seen regular outdoor storage. LED lights are a great upgrade if you’re experiencing repeated bulb failures in colder weather.
Inspect Suspension and Frame Integrity
Take time to check your trailer’s suspension system, leaf springs, shackles, and frame for signs of fatigue or corrosion. Road salt and debris during wetter months can build up in hidden areas, especially in galvanised box trailers or flat top trailers used on work sites.
Use a torch to examine the undercarriage and look for cracks, rust streaks, or missing bolts.
Clean Out Debris from Floor and Cages
Fallen leaves, sticks, and dirt can accumulate in cages and flat beds, particularly in garden tipper trailers or box trailers that carry loose material. This debris traps moisture and leads to rust or mould.
Sweep out the bed and ensure any mesh flooring is clean and dry. Remove old straps or wet covers that may also harbour moisture.
Prepare for Off-Season Storage
If you plan to reduce your towing during autumn or winter, prepare your trailer for storage. Park it on a solid surface (not grass), chock the wheels, and cover the trailer to prevent water pooling in joints or wiring points.
If you own a single axle trailer or smaller motorbike trailer, consider raising it slightly on blocks to prevent tyre flat spots over the season.
Why Autumn Maintenance Matters
Neglecting seasonal maintenance can lead to:
- Brake failure in wet conditions
- Rust forming on galvanised surfaces
- Electrical faults from moisture buildup
- Cracked tyres and weakened suspension
A little effort now prevents expensive repairs later and ensures your trailer is always safe to tow—whether for work, recreation, or transport.
Why Choose United Trailers
At United Trailers, we don’t just supply high-quality trailers—we support owners year-round with guidance on how to extend the life of their investment. Our trailers are engineered for tough Australian conditions, and regular care keeps them performing their best.
Whether you tow a tandem box trailer, car trailer, or cattle trailer, our team can help you protect it for the seasons ahead.
Final Thoughts
Autumn is the perfect time to give your trailer the attention it deserves. From tyre pressure checks to frame inspections and electrical testing, these small tasks make a big difference in performance and longevity.
Stay ready for the road by maintaining your trailer this season. For trailers built to handle Australia’s changing weather, trust the experts at United Trailers.