When Should I Replace My Towbar?

Towbars are designed to last but over time they will be exposed to wear and tear and could
become a safety risk if not replaced at the right time. A towbar in poor condition can also cause
a vehicle to fail its MOT.

High-quality towbars have a good lifespan but there are numerous factors that will affect how
long a towbar can safely be used. If a towbar is regularly used to tow heavy weights, then it is
going to need to be replaced earlier than a towbar that is used occasionally and for towing
smaller weights.

Towbars that are used every day for commercial purposes will have a significantly lower
lifespan than a towbar that is used only for summer caravan trips. This is why there is no set
amount of years for replacing a towbar, as usage and inspections should determine whether
you replace it after 5 years or can wait until you have had it for 10 years.

How to inspect the condition of your towbar

The pins and bolts are the parts of a towbar that will usually show signs of wear and tear first,
so it is important to inspect these before you make a journey where you will be towing.

During a MOT your towbar will be thoroughly inspected, checking your towball, fixings, locking
devices, bolts, brackets and surrounding body and chassis of the vehicle for any issues. If there
are any signs of corrosion, excessive wear, insecure fixings etc. then your vehicle will fail its
MOT and you will need to have it repaired or replaced.

Maintenance for your towbar
Regular maintenance for your towbar will help to prolong the lifespan and keep it in better
condition. Ways to keep your towbar well-maintained include:

• Clean your towbar regularly to clear away any dirt or grime that has built up – don’t use
any lubricants, just use a clean cloth.

• Use a towball cover when your towbar is not in use to protect it from debris, dirt and
weather conditions.

• Check all mountings, fixings and parts for damage and make sure parts are all tightened
securely.

Which towbar to purchase?
A high-quality towbar will have gone through rigorous safety testing procedures and will usually
have a longer lifespan. You should consider how much you will be using your towbar when you
are deciding which end of the price range to opt for.

Modern towbars have been designed with advanced technology, so upgrading to a new towbar
will provide you with increased safety when using your towbar.

PF Jones has one of the largest towbar ranges in the UK, with the top brands such as Witter and
Thule amongst the best-selling towbars. We also offer an expert towbar fitting service, so you
can let the professionals take care of the security and installation quality.

Get a quote for your new towbar using our instant online quote system.