How to Check Your Trailer’s Lighting (And Why It’s So Important!)

When it comes to towing a trailer, there’s one safety tip that’s absolutely non-negotiable: making sure your trailer lights are working properly. Whether you’re hauling a camper for a weekend getaway or transporting some heavy-duty equipment, functional trailer lighting isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have. Here’s why it matters and a quick guide on how to check your lights before you hit the road.

Why Trailer Lighting Matters

Imagine this: you’re cruising down the highway, your trailer in tow, and the car behind you has no idea you’re about to hit the brakes. Why? Because your brake lights aren’t working. Scary, right?

Functional trailer lights aren’t just about staying legal (although you definitely want to avoid a ticket!). They’re about keeping you, your cargo, and everyone else on the road safe. Here’s what your trailer lights do for you:

• Brake lights: Let drivers behind you know when you’re stopping or slowing down
• Turn signals: Help you communicate when you’re changing lanes or making a turn.
• Running lights: Make your trailer visible at night or in low-light conditions.
• Reverse lights (if equipped): Provide light when you’re backing up.

Simply put, without working lights, other drivers can’t anticipate your movements, which increases the risk of accidents.

How to Check Your Trailer Lights (Quick and Easy!)

Good news: checking your trailer lights is a simple process that only takes a few minutes. Here’s how to do it:

1. Park Safely: Start by parking your vehicle and trailer on a flat surface with plenty of room. Make sure everything is turned off and secure.
2. Connect the Wiring Harness: Double-check that the trailer’s wiring harness is securely plugged into your towing vehicle. A loose connection can cause flickering or non-working lights.
3. Turn on Your Vehicle: Fire up your car or truck, and test each light one at a time. It’s easier if you have a buddy stand behind the trailer while you run through the lights. If you’re solo, you can use a reflective surface like a garage door or a mirror to see the lights.
4. Check Each Light:
• Turn on your headlights to test the running lights.
• Press the brake pedal to check the brake lights.
• Flip on your turn signals, one at a time.
• If your trailer has reverse lights, put your vehicle in reverse (but keep your foot on the brake for safety!).
5. Inspect for Problems: If any lights aren’t working, inspect the bulbs, wiring connections, and fuses. Most issues are caused by a bad connection or a blown bulb, which are easy fixes.

Pro Tips for Trailer Lighting

• Carry Spares: Always keep extra bulbs and fuses in your vehicle. You never know when you might need them.
• Check Before Every Trip: Even if your lights worked perfectly last time, it’s smart to double-check. Wires can loosen, and bulbs can burn out over time.
• Invest in Quality Gear: A high-quality wiring harness and LED lights can reduce the chances of failures.

The Bottom Line

When you’re towing a trailer, safety starts before you even hit the road. Taking a few minutes to check your trailer’s lights can save you a lot of headaches—and maybe even prevent an accident. So, before your next trip, grab a friend, do a quick lighting check, and tow with confidence!

Remember, if you’re renting a trailer from us, our team always inspects the lights before handing it over to you. But we recommend checking them again once you’re hooked up—because it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Tow safe y'all!