Towing a trailer might seem like a simple task—just hitch it up and hit the road, right? Not quite. Especially when you’re towing an unbraked trailer to a towing vehicle, there’s a lot more to consider than just driving forward. Whether you’re towing a utility trailer for yard work, a small boat, or a lightweight camper, the absence of brakes on the trailer means you bear full responsibility for safety and control.
Unfortunately, many drivers make mistakes when towing unbraked trailers—mistakes that can lead to accidents, damage, or costly fines. This guide walks you through the most common mistakes to avoid, so you can tow safely, legally, and confidently.
What Is an Unbraked Trailer?
Before diving into the common errors, let’s clarify what we mean by “unbraked trailer.” An unbraked trailer is a trailer that does not have its own braking system. This means the entire stopping force must come from the towing vehicle’s brakes.
These trailers are usually lightweight—often under 750 kg (about 1650 lbs)—and are commonly used for small jobs like hauling garden tools, motorcycles, or light cargo. Even though they are small, unbraked trailers can create big problems if not handled properly.
Why Towing an Unbraked Trailer Requires Extra Care
Attaching an unbraked trailer to a towing vehicle changes the way your vehicle handles. You’ll notice:
Longer stopping distances
Reduced acceleration
Limited maneuverability
Greater wear on your vehicle’s brakes
That’s why it’s critical to understand and avoid the most common towing mistakes.
1. Exceeding the Weight Limit
One of the biggest mistakes drivers make is towing a trailer that’s too heavy for their vehicle to handle—especially if it’s unbraked.
The Problem:
Exceeding your towing vehicle’s maximum unbraked towing capacity can lead to:
Brake failure
Tire blowouts
Frame or hitch damage
Legal penalties
The Fix:
Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or VIN plate to find the maximum unbraked towing weight. Always weigh your trailer with the load included to ensure you’re within limits. Stay under the threshold, and never assume the trailer's empty weight is what you'll be pulling.
2. Poorly Balancing the Load
How you distribute the weight in your trailer matters—a lot.
The Problem:
Placing too much weight on one side, or overloading the rear, can cause:
Trailer sway
Loss of control
Stress on the hitch and suspension
The Fix:
When loading an unbraked trailer:
Place 60% of the load in the front half of the trailer (near the hitch).
Distribute weight evenly from left to right.
Make sure the tongue weight is about 10–15% of the total trailer weight.
This balance helps the trailer track behind your vehicle smoothly and reduces the risk of swaying.
3. Forgetting to Secure the Load
Even if your load is within the weight limit, it needs to be properly secured to avoid dangerous movement during transit.
The Problem:
Unsecured items can:
Shift during braking
Fall out onto the road
Damage your trailer or towing vehicle
The Fix:
Always use tie-down straps, bungee cords, or cargo nets to secure your load. Cover loose items with a tarp and double-check everything before driving off.
4. Not Checking the Hitch and Coupling
The hitch is your lifeline when towing. Failing to properly connect the unbraked trailer to a towing vehicle can be catastrophic.
The Problem:
An improperly attached hitch can:
Detach while driving
Cause rear-end accidents
Damage both vehicles
The Fix:
Before towing:
Ensure the coupling is fully seated on the tow ball.
Lock the latch with a pin or lock.
Attach safety chains in a crisscross pattern under the hitch.
Test for tightness by lifting the trailer slightly with the tongue jack.
5. Ignoring Tire Pressure and Condition
Trailer tires are often overlooked but play a crucial role in safe towing.
The Problem:
Underinflated or worn tires can:
Blow out under load
Cause sway or fishtailing
Increase stopping distances
The Fix:
Inflate trailer tires to the recommended PSI (found on the tire or trailer label).
Inspect for cracks, bulges, or worn tread.
Replace tires that are more than 5–6 years old, even if they look okay.
6. Speeding While Towing
When towing an unbraked trailer, speed becomes your enemy.
The Problem:
Driving too fast can:
Make it harder to stop
Cause trailer sway
Reduce reaction time
The Fix:
Stay under 55–65 mph, even on highways.
Leave more following distance than usual.
Avoid sudden lane changes or sharp turns.
Driving slower also reduces strain on your vehicle and gives you better control.
7. Not Practicing Maneuvers Beforehand
Towing an unbraked trailer changes how your vehicle handles—especially when turning or reversing.
The Problem:
Jumping into traffic without practicing can lead to:
Oversteering
Backing into objects
Crossing center lines
The Fix:
Practice turning and backing up in an empty parking lot or quiet street.
Learn to use your mirrors, as the trailer will likely block your rearview.
Take corners wide and slow, and always plan ahead for stops and turns.
8. Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Your trailer needs maintenance, just like your car.
The Problem:
Worn components can lead to:
Hitch failure
Wobbly wheels
Electrical issues
The Fix:
Inspect the hitch, safety chains, lights, and tires before each trip.
Lubricate the tow ball and moving parts.
Check for rust or damage on the trailer frame.
A quick pre-trip inspection can save you from expensive or dangerous issues down the road.
9. Driving Without a Clear View
Many drivers forget how much a trailer can block visibility.
The Problem:
Not being able to see around your trailer means:
You can’t check blind spots
You might miss traffic or obstacles
Parking becomes a nightmare
The Fix:
Install towing mirrors if needed.
Make wide-angle mirror adjustments.
Use a spotter when reversing in tight spaces.
Seeing clearly means driving safely.
10. Failing to Follow Local Laws and Regulations
Rules for towing an unbraked trailer vary by state.
The Problem:
Ignoring towing laws can result in:
Hefty fines
Insurance issues
Legal liability in an accident
The Fix:
Check local laws on trailer weight limits, safety equipment, and speed limits.
Make sure your license and insurance cover towing.
Some areas may require reflectors or additional lights, even for small trailers.
Conclusion: Towing Doesn’t Have to Be Tricky
Towing an unbraked trailer to a towing vehicle is a manageable task—as long as you respect the limits, plan ahead, and follow best practices. Avoiding the mistakes listed above can help you protect your vehicle, your trailer, and everyone else on the road.
Whether you're hauling yard waste, moving furniture, or taking a weekend getaway, towing safely should always be your top priority. By staying informed and alert, you’ll have a smooth trip every time.
FAQs
1. What’s the maximum weight I can tow with an unbraked trailer?
It depends on your vehicle. Most vehicles have an unbraked towing capacity between 1,500–2,000 lbs, but always check your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s specifications. Exceeding this limit is unsafe and often illegal.
2. Do I need safety chains when towing an unbraked trailer?
Yes! Safety chains are a legal requirement in most states. They serve as a backup in case the hitch fails and should be crossed in an “X” pattern beneath the coupler to prevent the trailer tongue from hitting the ground.
3. Can I tow an unbraked trailer with any car or SUV?
Not necessarily. While many cars and SUVs can handle light trailers, you still need to check the specific towing capacity of your vehicle. Some smaller cars aren’t rated for towing at all. Use the manufacturer’s guidelines and never guess.
