When Is a Trailer Worth Repairing?

If you've got a rusty trailer sitting in the driveway, you've probably asked yourself this question. And the honest answer is: it depends.

Some trailers are absolutely worth fixing. A bit of surface rust, a dodgy light, worn out bunks — that stuff is straightforward and cheap to sort. A good service can add years to the life of a trailer that's otherwise in solid shape.

But some trailers have had their day. If the rust has gone deep into the steel frame, it's not just a cosmetic problem. Structural rust means the trailer isn't safe to be on the road, and repairing it properly costs more than it's worth. You'd be throwing good money at something that'll be back in the same state within a season or two.

Here's a rough guide to what we look at:

• Surface rust on panels or bunks
• Rust on the frame or chassis
• Rust that's eaten through the steel which means in most cases, time to replace.

The other thing to factor in is age. An older trailer with a compromised frame is a different conversation to a newer one with a few rust spots.

The best thing you can do is bring it in and let us have a look. We'll give you a straight answer on whether it's worth fixing or whether you'd be better off putting that money toward a new one.