Craigslist Jet Skis (2024)

FAQs

Are old jet skis worth anything? ›

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.

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. Your ability to properly gauge the quality of a Jet Ski will increase significantly after reading this guide.

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.

Jet Ski is the brand name of a personal watercraft (PWC) manufactured by Kawasaki, a Japanese company. The term is often used generically to refer to any type of personal watercraft used mainly for recreation, and it is also used as a verb to describe the use of any type of PWC.

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. Get ready to see why riders everywhere just love their Yamaha!

Whether you're looking to buy a new Jet Ski and wondering how long it'll last or deciding if it's worthwhile to purchase a used one, generally speaking a 2-stroke engine lasts around 200-300 hours, while a 4-stroke should last around 300-500 hours.

On average, a jet ski's lifespan varies dependant on engine type. A 2 stroke engine is between around 200-300 hours and a 4 stroke is between around 300-500 hours, which translates to several years of use for most recreational users. Ensure you inquire about the number of hours the jet ski has been used.

The average lifespan of a Jet Ski is 300 hours. But usage alone isn't the only factor you should consider when buying a used Jet Ski. A well-maintained Jet Ski that's seen 200 hours on the water could be in better shape than a poorly maintained Jet Ski used for 30 hours.

Jet Ski Cons

While jet skis are fun, their speed and maneuverability can make them a safety concern, mainly when operated irresponsibly. If the rider pushes their vehicle too fast and attempts to corner at a high speed, it can be dangerous for the passengers and the public around them.

Are jet skis high maintenance? ›

Prepare: While jet skis are fairly simple to operate, they are complex machines that need a little TLC. Before going on your first ride, you should check your owner's manual to find out when your jet ski will need to be serviced. This is usually 50 engine hours.

A remanufactured engine could be $3–8k, which also gives you more reassurance and probably a warranty, but that is assuming you can get one. A new engine is obviously the best and most costly option, at probably $8–12k.

The short answer is, it depends. While jet skis are designed to be stable and maneuverable on the water, several factors can increase the likelihood of flipping. One of the primary factors that can cause a jet ski to flip is aggressive maneuvering, especially at high speeds.

Owning a jet ski will involve ongoing costs like insurance, fuel, and maintenance, which can total around $1,000 annually; plus, various financing options help manage the initial purchase price.

Riding a jet ski might seem difficult, but when following the guide's instructions and respecting all the rules, you'll see just how easy it is! A minimum age is required, and it also depends on the center that provides you with the activity. The same goes for whether a driver's license is needed for the driver.

Jet skis tend to depreciate about 22% in their first year, whereas boats depreciate at a rate of around 10-15%. It's also important to consider potential depreciation when purchasing a new vessel. So, before deciding, ensure your budget can handle both the upfront and long-term costs of owning a jet ski or boat.

Even 5 years is a long time for categories perceived to advance year to year such as skis and boots. If it's old enough to be considered “retro” or “vintage”, say 25 years or more, you may have luck selling online via Ebay, Poshmark, or ThredUp with keywords that indicate it's a throwback item.

To identify what particular year your jetski is you just need to check the HIN number (Hull Identification Number) which is a stamped plate that is fixed outside of the hull at the rear of the ski. The last 2 digits of the HIN number will be that year of the ski.

Often the best way to estimate a ski's birthday is by the date of manufacture of the binding. Up to about 1890 nearly all skis were equipped with leather-strap bindings. Toe straps were either nailed or screwed to the ski, or passed through a horizontal hole (a mortise) drilled through from side to side.