According to the latest data from the National Caravan Council, there are an estimated 550,000 caravans in use in the United Kingdom.
But do they need an annual MOT test to ensure that they are legal?
Read our latest car maintenance to learn more about keeping your caravan in the best condition possible.
Caravan regulations in the UK
Before we look into MOT tests, there are a few other important rules that caravan owners should be aware of.
These include towing limits, total weight, speed limits, and use of its own lights and indicators.
When it comes to towing a caravan, the maximum width of caravan allowed is 2.55 metres, and the length varies based on the vehicle's Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).
For vehicles with a MAM of 3,500kg or less, the maximum trailer (or caravan) length is seven metres.
Vehicles with a MAM over 3,500kg, the caravan can be up to 12 metres long, with a combined vehicle and trailer length of up to 18 metres.
The speed limit when towing a caravan is 60mph on motorways and dual carriageways, and 50mph on single-carriageway roads.
However, it is always important to follow speed limit signs, as they can vary on different roads.
Do caravans need an MOT?
For all drivers in the UK, those with caravans do not have to take them to have an annual MOT test.
However, it’s essential to regularly service and maintain your caravan to ensure road safety. This includes checking brakes, tyres, lights, and the caravan's chassis condition.
Although not legally required, an annual service is strongly recommended for safe and reliable towing.
Arrival Breakdown Cover
Get specialist personal based cover for caravans, motorhomes and campervans from just £11 per month^.
Do caravans need a service?
Although it isn’t a legal requirement, caravans need regular servicing to ensure they remain safe, roadworthy, and in good working condition.
A caravan service typically includes checks on brakes, tyres, lights, suspension, chassis, and the electrical systems.
The service will also look at the internal gas and water systems, as well as any other internal systems that need checking to keep the caravan safe.
Over time, wear and tear can affect all of these components, potentially leading to safety hazards or costly breakdowns.
Servicing also helps maintain the value of the caravan and ensures compliance with insurance or warranty requirements.
It’s generally recommended to service a caravan annually or before long trips.
What is in a caravan service?
For owners who want to ensure their caravan is in the best condition possible, here is what could be included in a caravan service:
- Brakes – Inspection and adjustment of all brake system components.
- Tyres – Check tyre pressure, tread wear, and overall condition of all four tyres.
- Suspension – Inspect suspension system for wear and potential damage.
- Chassis and axles – Inspect and lubricate chassis components and axles.
- Lights and indicators – As a legal requirement, a service will ensure all exterior and interior lights are working.
- Batteries and electronics – Check battery charge and related electrical components and clean/repair if necessary.
- Water system – Look at water tanks, pumps, and plumbing for leaks or blockages.
- Windows and doors – Ensure windows and doors open, close, and seal properly.
- Safety features – Test smoke, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers.
- Structural integrity – Check for any signs of rust, broken seals, or damage to the frame.
This comprehensive service ensures the caravan is in safe, operational condition for traveling.
Caravan tyres
Caravan tyres are crucial for safety, as they bear the full weight of the structure and its contents.
They are different to normal vehicle tyres, so ensuring that the right type are being used is crucial.
It is the responsibility of the driver to regularly check tyre pressure to ensure it matches the manufacturer's specifications, as over or under-inflated tyres can affect handling and increase the risk of blowouts.
And underinflated tyres can also lead to major safety issues.
Inspect tyres for signs of wear, cracks, or damage regularly, and especially if you are about to embark on a longer journey.
Caravan owners will need to regularly replace tyres every 5 to 7 years, even if they appear fine visually, to ensure optimal performance and safety on the road.
In some cases, especially if they are used regularly or rarely, they will need to replaced more frequently due to being worn down or being left to the elements for extended periods of time.
Is your caravan covered for a breakdown?
Arrival, the RAC’s breakdown cover for caravans, campervans, and motorhomes, has been created in partnership with The Camping and Caravanning Club.
It offers all the standard RAC services, along with tailored benefits for caravans, motorhomes, and campervans.
You can now select coverage specifically designed for your vehicle, whether you’re driving or towing.
Get your caravan covered for a breakdown today. If you would like to speak to a member of the team, please call 0330 159 0359.
Also, if you are looking to take your caravan across the English Channel into the continent, then make sure that you also have European Breakdown Cover.
Our English-speaking helpline is available 24/7 to assist you if the worst should happen.
We’ll make every effort to repair your vehicle at the roadside. If it can’t be fixed, we’ll tow it to a garage and arrange alternative transport.
If necessary, we’ll even return you and your vehicle to the UK.
Cheaper than AA Price Promise or we’ll beat it by 20%^
• Roadside cover from £5.49 a month*
• We get to most breakdowns in 60 mins or less
• Our patrols fix 4/5 breakdowns on the spot
