How To Buy A Used Jet Ski: 5 Tips To Get The Best Seal

Jet skiing is a thrilling water activity that provides thrills and excitement on the open water. If you want to buy a jet ski but want to save money, buying a used one might be a wonderful alternative. Buying a secondhand jet ski, on the other hand, requires careful analysis to guarantee you receive the greatest bargain possible. In this article, we'll look at 5 advice for buying a used jet ski.

Check Its Hours And Service History

When purchasing a used jet ski, it's important to consider both its hours on the water and its service history. While the average lifespan of a jet ski is around 300 hours, it's crucial to ask the seller how long they've owned the jet ski and how frequently it has been used. However, the number of hours should not be the sole determining factor, as a jet ski can have issues regardless of its usage. Instead, focus on obtaining access to the service logbook to see when the vehicle was last serviced. This will give you a better understanding of its condition, suitability for water use, and whether the asking price is reasonable.

Is There Water In The Hull

A small amount of water in the jet ski hull is normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, if you find a significant amount of water in the hull, it could indicate potential problems such as improper draining after cleaning, leaks, or missing drain plugs. While excess water can usually be drained, it may suggest underlying structural issues that should be addressed before buying the jet ski.

Security

When purchasing a used jet ski, it's important to consider its security features and the risk of theft. Different manufacturers and models may have various anti-theft devices such as security tabs, lanyards, pins, fobs, or immobilizers. Inquire about the seller's experiences with theft or attempted theft and the precautions they have taken with the jet ski. Understanding the level of security and the associated risks is essential before making a purchase.

The top Deck And Seats Are In Good Condition

When inspecting a used jet ski, it's important to go beyond the information provided in the seller's advertisement and examine it closely for any signs of wear and tear. While the base of the jet ski may have abrasions and water damage, you should also expect some wear on the upside and seats, especially in older models with higher mileage. However, be cautious of any botched repairs, concealed faults, or mismatched paintwork, as these could indicate underlying issues. Pay attention to the condition of the seats, look for rips or loose stitching, and inquire about any previous repairs or replacements. Additionally, if the jet ski has side mirrors, ensure they are properly and securely fitted. It's crucial to identify and address any potential issues before hitting the water.

Go For A Test Ride

It is important to differentiate between starting a jet ski on a trailer or connecting it to a hose and testing it on the water. While a jet ski may appear to run fine in those situations, its performance can be entirely different when in the water. During a test ride, the jet ski should accelerate smoothly without any stuttering or hesitation. After the ride, remove the seats to inspect the hull for water accumulation. While a small amount of water is acceptable, a significant volume of water, particularly if not caused by rough waves, indicates a potential issue that needs to be addressed.

Ultimately, used jet skis often appeal to buyers, especially those who are new or inexperienced in the world of jet skiing, due to their lower price compared to brand-new ones. However, it's essential to be knowledgeable and cautious when purchasing a used jet ski due to the wide range of options and potential challenges. There are risks such as hidden defects and dealing with untrustworthy sellers. To navigate these obstacles successfully, it's crucial to be well-informed about what to look for when buying a used jet ski.