Craigslist Jet Skis For Sale By Owner (2024)

FAQs

Is it OK to buy used jet ski? ›

Summary. When making inquiries to inspect the Jet Ski in person, only consider options with detailed and legitimate service history. The short lifespan of the engine means that you should purchase a model that is less than five years old or used for less than 100 hours.

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.

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.

Yamaha WaveRunners are the perfect choice for anyone seeking a quality jet ski experience. With decades of industry knowledge and an unyielding commitment to excellence, you can trust that your ride will be nothing short of extraordinary.

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.

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.

Design and Performance: Yamaha jet skis are known for their stability, handling, and acceleration. They are typically designed for more experienced riders who prefer a sporty ride. Sea-Doo jet skis, on the other hand, offer a more comfortable and stable ride, with a focus on luxury and family-friendly features.

Boats have higher long-term maintenance costs but can also hold their value better than a jet ski. Jet skis tend to depreciate about 22% in their first year, whereas boats depreciate at a rate of around 10-15%.

Why are jet skis so expensive right now? ›

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.

A Jet Ski or a Sea-Doo are brand names of PWC, and the average person puts around 30 hours a year on their machine. A low-hour ski is a machine that has been used for less than 50 hours, while 150 hours or more of use is considered high. If a PWC is 5 years old, you should expect it to have roughly 150 hours logged.

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.

The good news is that a PWC requires very little in the way of maintenance. Here's how to keep your PWC running strong season after season.

The average cost of a jet ski is approximately $13,800, but prices can start at $6,000. New jet ski prices can reach $21,000, depending on features. Once you get a grasp of what you can afford, the nuances of jet ski insurance, the features of new and used models, and PWC accessories, you can shop confidently.