Trailer Sway (Snaking)

Common triggers are high speed, crosswinds, passing lorries and downhill stretches. Too little nose weight or a rear-heavy load makes sway much more likely. Many cars have trailer stability control that brakes to calm the movement. A nose weight of around the maximum allowed by car and tow bar, within the limits, helps stability.

Once the trailer starts to yaw, its inertia pushes the car’s rear sideways, and each swing can grow larger.

If sway starts, ease off the accelerator gently and keep the steering straight; do not brake hard or accelerate. Load heavy items low and over the trailer axle.