What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I've seen too many blokes lose a wheel bearing on the highway because they didn't rinse their trailer properly. Between the salt spray and that fine red dust we get inland, your trailer takes a beating. This is my personal routine for keeping the rust at bay and the lights actually working.
The Gear You'll Need
What You'll Need
Pre-Start Inspection
What You'll Need
While you're here...
The Post-Salt Washdown
High-Pressure Rinse
Blast every inch of the frame. Pay special attention to the inside of the C-channel and around the leaf springs where salt and sand accumulate.
Salt Neutraliser Application
Mix your Salt-Away or similar in a foam cannon or sprayer. Coat the whole trailer, including the brakes and axles. Let it dwell for 5-10 minutes.
The Scrub Down
Use your brush and soapy water to agitate the grime on the wheels, mudguards, and winch. This is where you'll spot any new cracks or rust spots.
Final Flush
Rinse everything thoroughly. I like to shove the hose right into any drainage holes in the frame to flush out trapped salt or red dust.
Dry and Protect
Once dry, spray your lanolin protectant over the leaf springs, bolts, and winch cable. It smells a bit like a wet sheep, but it works wonders.
Final Inspection
What You'll Need
Hard-Learned Lessons
Watch Out
Trusted by 50,000+ Aussie car owners
Professional advice for Australian conditions
Products We Recommend
Keep Learning
Ready to level up your car care?
You've got the knowledge—now put it into action. Explore more guides or check out our recommended products.
Get Weekly Car Care Tips
Join 12,000+ Aussie car enthusiasts
Keep Reading
Getting Sand and Salt Out Without Ruining Your Paint
Beach trips are a classic Aussie weekend, but that sand and salt spray will chew through your clear coat if you aren't careful. Here is how to get it off properly without scratching the life out of your pride and joy.
Keeping Your Boat Trailer From Rotting This Autumn
Salt and red dust are the silent killers of Australian boat trailers. Here is how to stop the rust before it writes off your rig.
The Weekly Wash: Keeping Your Pride and Joy Mint
A quick, no-nonsense checklist to keep the Aussie sun and grit from killing your paint. Get it done right in under an hour.
Keeping Your Boat Trailer From Rotting Away
Saltwater is the absolute enemy of your trailer, and if you aren't on top of maintenance, you'll be stranded on the boat ramp with a seized bearing or a snapped leaf spring. Here's how to keep things moving smoothly so you can focus on the fishing.

