Most people on the Sunshine Coast book a trailer safety certificate thinking it’s just a quick tick-and-flick, but if your trailer or caravan hasn’t had a proper look-over in a while, there’s a chance it won’t pass first go. If you’re not sure what a trailer safety certificate actually covers, here’s a good overview. But in simple terms it means your trailer is safe, legal, and roadworthy.
Whether you’re getting ready to sell it or register it, there are a few simple things worth checking beforehand. These are the most common things we see trailers fail on, but the good news is, they’re usually easy to sort out before you bring it in.
Here’s what to look out for:
1. Bearings. Are They Greased and Quiet?
Wheel bearings wear out, dry out, or seize up, especially if the trailer has been sitting or used near saltwater.
Check for:
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Rumbling or humming noise while towing
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Wheel play when rocked side-to-side
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Heat coming off the hubs after a short drive
Tip: If it hasn’t been serviced in the past 12 months, you might be better off repacking the bearings before the inspection.
2. Lights. Don’t Assume They Work
Faulty trailer lights are one of the fastest ways to fail a safety certificate and it’s often just a dodgy earth or corroded plug.
Check before you book:
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Brake lights, indicators, tail lights, and number plate light
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Plug connection (no rust, no loose pins)
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Cracks or water in the lenses
Plug it into your tow vehicle and check everything works properly.
3. Tyres. Not Just Tread but Age
Even if the tyres look fine, they can still be too old or under-rated to pass.
Check:
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Cracks in the sidewalls (UV damage)
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Tyre load rating matches trailer rating (especially for caravans)
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The DOT date on the sidewall (anything over 6–7 years old is pushing it)
Replace any tyres with cracking or visible ageing. Don’t forget to check the spare if it’s fitted.
4. Coupling, Chains and Brakes. Are they Legal and Secure?
These items are critical for safety and compliance.
Check:
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Coupling locks properly and isn’t excessively worn
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Safety chains are rated and attached with rated shackles (not just a padlock or bolt)
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Mechanical or electric brakes are working, adjusted, and not dragging
If you’re unsure about the brake setup, book a quick service first and we can check cable tension, adjust shoes, or test electric brakes.
5. General Condition. Any Rust or Cracks?
A safety certificate covers more than just lights and tyres, the trailer’s overall condition needs to meet roadworthy standards.
Check:
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Rust around drawbar, suspension, or chassis welds
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Jockey wheel turns freely and locks in place
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Tailgate latches, ramps, and hinges all operate properly
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Suspension isn’t sagging, cracked, or binding
Give everything a once-over. If something looks damaged or dodgy, it probably won’t pass.
6. Book With Confidence: We Want You to Pass
At My Mobile Mechanic, we’re not here to catch you out — we want you to pass. If you’re not sure whether your trailer or caravan is ready, you can book it in for a service or pre-check first to get it sorted before the inspection.
If you decide to go straight for the safety certificate and it doesn’t pass, don’t stress — you’ve got 14 days to fix the issues, and we’ll come back to issue the certificate at no extra charge once it’s good to go.
We can help with:
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Servicing before your inspection to get everything ready
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Repacking bearings, fixing wiring, replacing tyres or brakes
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Issuing your QLD trailer or caravan safety certificate on the spot, anywhere on the Sunshine Coast
👉 Click here to Book your Safety Certificate or Service Now