Tow bar electrics check in Newton Abbot
Looking for professional tow bar electrics check help in Newton Abbot? Hembury Contracting provides reliable vehicle services across Newton Abbot and surrounding areas.
Price Guide
£60
Typical Duration
20-30 mins
Location
Newton Abbot
Tow bar electrical system tested thoroughly. All trailer lights checked, faults identified - make sure you're legal and safe before towing.
### Don't Get Pulled Over Towing
You've borrowed a trailer, hooked it up, and as you drive away you're **wondering if the lights are actually working**. Last thing you want is blue flashing lights on the M5.
> 💡 **Pro tip:** Tow bar electrics fail gradually. Last time you used it might have been fine, but corrosion builds up. Always test before towing.
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### Why Regular Checks Matter
More than just legal - it's safety:
| ✅ Working Properly | ❌ Faulty | |--------------------|-----------| | Drivers behind see you braking | Rear-end collision risk | | Indicators work both sides | Confusing other drivers | | Legal and no police stops | £100+ fine, vehicle prohibition | | Reverse lights warn pedestrians | Backing hazard |
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### What You Get
**🔧 The Full Test**
I'll plug a test unit into your tow bar socket and check every function - brake lights, left indicator, right indicator, tail lights, fog, reverse (13-pin). Identify any faults and let you know what needs fixing.
**📦 You're Left With** - Full report of what works and what doesn't - Identified faults - Advice on fixes needed - Peace of mind for towing
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### Pricing Guide
| What's Involved | Estimated Time | You'll Pay | |-----------------|----------------|------------| | Tow bar electrics test | 20-30 mins | **£60** |
*£60 minimum charge. Quick test, but could save you a prohibition notice.*
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### Perfect For Your Project If...
✅ **About to tow** - haven't used it in months
✅ **Just bought the car** - don't know if tow bar works
✅ **Trailer lights not working** - need to find the fault
✅ **MOT prep** - want everything checked
Why Choose Us for Tow bar electrics check in Newton Abbot?
All trailer lights tested
Faults identified and reported
Road-legal and safe
Quick 20-minute check
What to Expect
### Step 1: Socket Inspection Check the tow bar socket for obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Sometimes the problem's visible before testing. ### Step 2: Electronic Test Plug in the tester, check each function systematically. Brake, left indicator, right indicator, tail lights, fog, reverse if 13-pin. ### Step 3: Fault Diagnosis If something's not working, check whether it's the socket, wiring, or relay. Let you know what needs fixing and whether it's DIY-able or needs a specialist.
Our Newton Abbot Service Coverage
We cover Newton Abbot and a 30-mile radius from Exeter, meaning you get local service with the backing of an established business. Whether you're in the centre of Newton Abbot or in the surrounding villages, we're here to help.
Good to Know
> 🚗 **About to tow?** Always test electrics before setting off. Takes 2 minutes with a friend watching, saves potential fine and insurance issues if you have an accident. **7-pin vs 13-pin** - Older tow bars use 7-pin sockets (just lights), newer ones use 13-pin (lights plus power for caravan fridge, etc). Different testing but same principle. **Bypass relays** - Modern cars use these to protect the car's electrics. When they fail, nothing works. Specialist auto electricians can replace them. **Corrosion prevention** - Use a protective cover on the socket when not towing. Keeps weather out and stops corrosion building up. **Legal requirement** - All trailer lights must work. Driving with faulty trailer lights is illegal and you'll get pulled over.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tow bar electrics check in Newton Abbot
What gets checked in a tow bar electrics test?
I'll plug in a test unit and check all the lights work - brake lights, indicators left and right, tail lights, fog light, reverse light (if 13-pin). Basically everything that needs to work for you to be legal towing a trailer.
My trailer lights aren't working - can you fix it?
I can test and identify where the fault is. If it's a simple blown bulb or loose wire in the trailer, I can usually fix it. If it's a wiring fault in the tow bar socket or car electrics, you might need a specialist auto electrician.
Do I need to bring my trailer?
Not for a basic socket test - I've got a tester that checks all the pins. But if you want the actual trailer tested too, bring it along and I'll check the whole system together.
Will it pass MOT with faulty trailer electrics?
The tow bar socket isn't usually part of the MOT unless you've specifically declared you're using it. But if you're towing with faulty lights, it's illegal and you'll get pulled over eventually.
What if the electrics were working before?
Tow bar sockets get corroded from weather, especially if you don't use them often. Sometimes it's just cleaning the pins. Other times the bypass relay's failed or there's a wiring fault. I can diagnose it for you.
Get a Free Quote in Newton Abbot
Call us today for a free, no-obligation quote for your tow bar electrics check job in Newton Abbot.
01392 964094Request Online QuotePricing for Newton Abbot
* Same rates for all locations in our service area
Got multiple jobs?
Make the most of your first hour - I can often tackle several small tasks in one visit. List everything you need done when you call!
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