There’s nothing more unsettling than feeling your trailer start to fishtail at 60 mph.
Trailer sway — that sudden, side-to-side motion that feels like you’re losing control — is more than just uncomfortable. It’s dangerous, and it can escalate quickly if not managed correctly. Whether you're a seasoned hauler or new to towing, understanding why sway happens and how to stop it can keep your travels safe and stress-free.
Sometimes it’s your speed. Other times it’s your load, tire pressure, or wind. And often, it’s your hitch. Fortunately, each cause has a solution, and with tools like the ProPride 3P Hitch, you can eliminate sway at the source.
In this blog, you will learn:
Let’s fix trailer sway — and bring back control to your towing experience.
Understanding the root cause of sway is the first step toward preventing it. Here are the most common culprits:
When cargo is placed too far back or unevenly across the trailer, the center of gravity shifts, this imbalance causes the trailer to swing more easily, especially during lane changes or curves.
The faster you go, the less reaction time you have. High speeds amplify sway, especially on windy highways or when passing trucks.
Sudden gusts of wind can push against the side of your trailer, setting off side-to-side motion that builds rapidly if your trailer isn’t well-balanced or properly hitched.
Underinflated or unevenly inflated tires reduce traction and increase instability. Both your trailer and tow vehicle tires should be checked regularly.
If your hitch is the wrong size, misaligned, or poorly installed, it can introduce slack or instability into the connection. This makes your trailer more susceptible to sway.
Exceeding your trailer’s weight limit or misjudging tongue weight causes the trailer to "wag the dog." This reduces control and increases braking distance.
Trailer sway is often a combination of these issues — fixing just one may not be enough.
Spotting sway early and pinpointing the cause can prevent a dangerous situation from escalating.
Diagnosing sway early — and accurately — is the key to applying the right fix.
If trailer sway begins while driving, don’t panic. Here’s how to stabilize quickly and safely:
Let off the accelerator — don’t brake suddenly. Lower speeds reduce sway and give you more control.
Use your manual trailer brake override (not your vehicle brakes) to help straighten the trailer. This technique helps align the trailer without further upsetting its balance.
If it’s safe to do so, stop and re-center any shifted cargo. Move heavy items closer to the trailer’s center or over the axle.
If you have a portable air compressor or tire gauge, inflate any underfilled tires. Correct tire pressure improves handling immediately.
Quick, jerky inputs make sway worse. Keep your hands steady and make smooth corrections until you’re stable again.
These steps can restore control quickly, but they won’t solve ongoing sway issues permanently.
Want to stop trailer sway before it starts? These long-term fixes will significantly reduce your risk:
The ProPride 3P Hitch uses patented Pivot Point Projection technology to eliminate trailer sway at its source, not just reduce it. It’s a true sway-elimination system, not just a damper.
Even load distribution helps prevent rear sag and front-end lift. This keeps your vehicle level, improves steering, and reduces sway risks.
Old or poorly designed hitches, worn suspension parts, or dated trailers may need upgrades. Today’s equipment offers major improvements in safety and handling.
Addressing sway with modern solutions like the ProPride 3P ensures your trailer tracks straight, even in crosswinds or emergency maneuvers.
Trailer sway is more than a nuisance — it’s a safety risk that can turn a simple tow into a dangerous situation.
Fortunately, with the right awareness and gear, you can control and even eliminate sway. From quick fixes like load checks and brake overrides to long-term upgrades like anti-sway hitches and weight distribution systems, there’s always a solution. And when you combine them with regular maintenance and smarter driving habits, your towing experience becomes safer, smoother, and far more enjoyable.
Looking for the best sway control system on the market? The ProPride 3P Hitch is the trusted choice for RVers, travelers, and serious haulers who want zero sway, not just “less.” Visit ProPride Hitch today to learn more and enjoy a stress-free towing experience on your next adventure.
Here are a few less-common, but crucial, questions about trailer sway and how to fix it:
Only if the weight is added properly, centered ,and over the axle. Adding too much or placing it in the wrong area can actually makethe sway worse.
Yes. Tires with weak sidewalls or low-speed ratings can flex more, reducing stability. Choose trailer-rated tires with the correct load rating and pressure.
Absolutely. A sway control system works best when paired with a weight distribution hitch, especially for heavier trailers or longer hauls.
Yes. Gravity can push the trailer forward and exaggerate sway. Maintain a steady speed and use engine braking to reduce downhill sway risk.
Yes — but it’s less likely with a properly installed sway elimination hitch like the ProPride 3P. It absorbs lateral force and prevents the trailer from moving independently.
Check before every trip. Inspect for loosened bolts, wear on moving parts, or any signs of rust or misalignment. It only takes a few minutes and can save you hours of trouble.