Whether a trailer has its own brakes depends mostly on its weight. Small utility trailers often have none, while heavier trailers are required to. Here is what to know about trailer brakes.
Weight decides it
Light trailers under a certain loaded weight typically have no brakes - the tow vehicle handles the stopping. Once a trailer gets heavy (rules vary by state, often around 3,000 lbs), it must have its own braking system so it does not overwhelm the tow vehicle; see why brakes overheat towing.
The common types
The two main trailer brake types are electric brakes, activated by a brake controller in the tow vehicle, and surge (hydraulic) brakes that self-activate; see surge brakes. Both apply braking at the trailer's own wheels, usually via drum brakes; see how drum brakes work.
Why it matters for safety
Without trailer brakes, a heavy load pushes the tow vehicle forward under braking, lengthening stops and overheating the truck's brakes. Trailer brakes share the load so the rig stops in control. Many states legally require them above a weight threshold.
Keep the tow vehicle strong
Trailer brakes assist, but the tow vehicle's brakes still do major work - keep them in top shape with heavy-duty friction; see best pads for towing. Fit quality pads and hardware.