Craigslist Jet Skis For Sale By Owner (2024)

FAQs

How many hours is good to buy a jet ski? ›

Running hours: According to Weller Recreation, a 2-stroke engine can last anywhere from 200 to 300 hours, while a 4-stroke lasts from 300-400 hours. Anything above 100 hours is usually considered high mileage, but you could still get years of enjoyment out of an older Jet Ski.

The cost of a jet ski is influenced by factors such as engine type, performance, and additional features, with four-stroke engines being more reliable but also heavier and pricier than two-strokes.

The Cost of a Used Jet Ski

Jet skis range in cost from $5,000 to $20,000, making them a much cheaper option than new boat prices. However, the prices listed are the cost of a new jet ski. The cost of used jet skis could vary considerably based on features and how much the previous owner used them on the water.

Modern machines have service timers built in just like cars and the owner's manual will tell you what needs to be done at certain hours. Most manufacturers produce machines designed to last around 10 years; at 30 hours a year, the approximate average lifespan of a PWC would be around 300 hours.

If you're one of the new jet ski buyers going shopping for the first time, starting with a used model to learn the ropes and get comfortable with basic maintenance tasks is typically recommended. A used watercraft can be an excellent investment, but it's important to consider: The vehicle's maintenance records.

Whenever a tank of gas sits for a long time (longer than 6 months), the gas can degrade and form varnish and residues. These residues can plug up a fuel system and cause the engine to run very poorly (and sometimes not want to start at all).

For a used grocery getter, having a shop replace the engine may run $3,000–5,000 depending on if the engine is used or remanufactured, double that or more if you go with a new engine from the dealer. The cost only goes up from there as the vehicle gets bigger or more expensive.

Spark plugs that are seized are a common Jet Ski difficulty because of the environment they are employed in. Mold and Mildew on the seat and in the engine bay. If you do not allow out your Sea-Doo, Yamaha, or Kawasaki Jet-Ski atmosphere after every use you will start to draw mold and within your engine bay.

Like any other boat, a personal watercraft (PWC) such as a BRP Sea-Doo, Yamaha WaveRunner or Kawasaki Jet Ski, requires some maintenance to keep it running reliably. The good news is that a PWC requires very little in the way of maintenance.

The first thing to look at is the overall condition of the Jet Ski. Do this on land, preferably on a trailer where you can get sufficient access to the hull. Run your hand over the surfaces and look for imperfections. The rubber bumper should be relatively intact, and you don't want to see cracked or missing pieces.

How many hours should a jet ski last? ›

Since the average lifetime of a Jet Ski engine is 300 hours, anything above 100 hours is considered high mileage.

The average person puts 30 to 50 hours a year on their PWC which would require an annual oil change. If you live somewhere that gets cold, you'll also need to do a winterization service.

Many lenders will let you finance a new or used personal watercraft between 12–84 months. Mountain America offers loans up to 72 months. The higher your loan amount, the longer your personal watercraft loan term will be.

You have to be prepared for regular services if you want your ski to stay in top condition and last for years - and this can cost as much as maintaining a smaller car. But, we can't emphasize enough that the total ownership costs can vary widely from model to model as they always depend on several factors.