7 Things You Should Know Before Buying A Jetski

Buying a jet ski can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you’re new to water sports. It’s vital that you put in the necessary research before making a decision. After all, this can be an expensive purchase, and it’d be even more heartbreaking if you end up not liking it.

Get An Online Finance Check

Buying a jetski comes with risk -  doing a $2 search on the PPSR can help you check if the jet-ski or other type of watercraft you're buying has a security interest registered against it. You can do an Online Boat Finance Check at the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR).  The Australian Government offers this service for checking if a vessel has money owing to a lender.

The purpose of PPSR for Boats is to safeguard boat buyers from unnecessary financial loss and damage to your credit history. If you buy a boat without knowing it is financially encumbered (money owing on it) you could have it legally repossessed and lose your investment.  Don't risk buying a boat with costly, hidden problems.

The cost is only $2.00 so don't be fooled into paying more!  Click here for an Online Finance Check.

Two-Stroke Versus Four-Stroke Jet Skis

When you find a used jet ski for sale, it will have one of two types of engine: a two-stroke or a four-stroke. Two-strokes were the standard for many years until four-stroke models entered the market in the early 2000s.

Four-strokes have many advantages. As well as being more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly, they are also quieter, more durable, and more modern. Older two-strokes models continue to circulate amongst second-hand buyers and sellers.

Bear in mind it will be easier to find used jet ski parts for four-stroke engines. Finding shops to service a four-stroke will also be easier as the two-strokes are phased out.

Service History

Before you buy a used jet ski, ask the seller for access to the service logbook. Ask how often the jet-ski has been serviced, what sorts of repairs were required, and whether any parts have been replaced. Ensure that the jet ski is well maintained and has been serviced by a professional jet ski mechanic.

Check the Engine Hours

It’s important to check the engine hours of a used jet ski. On average, an owner will use their jet ski for around 30 hours per year. So, if you buy a two-year-old used jet ski, aim to find one that's done around 60 engine hours. If you buy one that’s done too many hours it will reach the end of its jet ski engine lifespan faster. Generally speaking, a four-stroke jet ski will do between 300 and 500 engine hours.

Pre-Purchase Inspection

Before purchasing a used jet ski, it's essential to conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

• Check for any rust or corrosion
• Check the compression and pump for any damages
• Check the supercharger (if applicable)
• Check the hull for dents, scratches
• Check the seats for tears or cracks
• Check the battery, a jet ski battery lasts 3 to 5 years.

Go For A Test Drive

A jet ski may run when it’s sitting on a trailer bit it will act differently when put in the water. Check that there aren’t any warning lights and that all gauges function properly. As for the performance, make sure that the jet ski can maintain healthy RPMs at full throttle. Usually, this is somewhere above 7000, but it depends on the model. After the test drive, check under the seats to see if the hull is taking on water. A little bit of water is fine but alot of water may indicate a problem.

Show Jetskis for Sale

Check the Trailer

If the jetski has a trailer, it's vital to inspect the that that too. The important items to check are the wheel bearings, winch straps, bunks, carpet, bolts, trailer lights, and brake lights. You should also check the grease on the wheel bearings and also test any trailer lights and make sure they're all functioning properly. Lastly, you should check the bunks and carpets for any wear and tear. By doing this thorough inspection, you can ensure that your new jet ski has a reliable trailer and can last for years to come.

Factor In Extra Costs

All watercraft including jet skis, come with extra costs. Always be sure to leave some room in the budget for these extra costs.

• Registration
• Insurance
• Trailer
• Maintenance and Servicing
• Jet Ski Accessories including anchors, tow ropes, covers and life jackets.