A second-hand jet ski is often where the best value sits, and also where the most expensive mistakes are made. The difference usually comes down to preparation. This guide walks through what to look at before you pay, in the order that tends to save the most grief.
Start with the paperwork, not the paint
Before you even look at the ski, ask for:
- The hull identification number (HIN) and registration details
- The service book or invoices
- The owner's manual and keys (spares included)
- Any warranty paperwork still in force
Check that the seller's name matches the registration. If there is any chance the ski is still under finance, ask directly and consider a check on the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR). The government's PPSR search is a low-cost way to see if a security interest is registered against an asset, and it is explained at ppsr.gov.au.
Reading the hour meter
The hour meter is useful but not perfect. Ask yourself:
- Do the hours fit the age? Very low hours on an older ski can mean it sat unused, which has its own issues such as old fuel and perished seals. Very high hours on a younger ski suggest hire or heavy use.
- Do the records back it up? A service every 50 hours, or yearly, is a good sign. Big gaps are worth asking about.
- Does the wear match? Check the seat, grips, footwells and the hull's underside. A ski with 40 hours shouldn't look like it has done 400.
The hull and pump
On the trailer, walk around the hull slowly:
- Look for fresh gelcoat patches, mismatched colour, hairline cracks or soft spots, which can indicate collision repairs.
- Check the intake grate and the area around the impeller for dings, which are common after ramp strikes or sandbars.
- Ask when the impeller and wear ring were last inspected. Wear in this area can reduce performance.
- Look at the steering nozzle and trim system for movement and corrosion.
The engine
If the seller will allow it, ask for a cold start and then check:
- Does it start easily, and idle smoothly?
- Is there oil or water in the bilge?
- Does the oil cap look milky? That can mean water in the oil.
- Are there signs of corrosion on the engine, wiring or fittings? Salt water is relentless.
Ask about flushing habits. A ski that has been flushed with fresh water after each salt-water ride generally wears better than one that wasn't.
The trailer
Trailers are often overlooked until they fail on the way home. Check the tyres (including their age), wheel bearings, lights, rollers, winch strap and brakes if fitted. Check that its registration and plates are current. Replacing a trailer is a real cost, so factor it into your price.
The test ride
A short test ride tells you plenty. Does it accelerate smoothly? Does it steer cleanly? Any strange noises or vibration? For a bigger purchase, consider paying an independent marine mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection. The fee is small compared with a failed engine.
Red flags when buying privately
- Seller will not let you see the service records, HIN or registration
- A price well below similar skis, with a rushed or pressured sale
- Seller wants a deposit by a hard-to-reverse method before you have seen the ski
- Story does not add up: "bought it for a friend", "selling for a mate", or a reluctance to meet at their home
- A ski that has been modified in ways the seller cannot explain
If a deal feels off, walk away. There will be other skis. The ACCC publishes scam-spotting information at scamwatch.gov.au, which is worth a read if you buy anything online.
Comparing prices
Look at several similar skis to get a feel for the market. You can browse watercraft listings on Anything Marketplace to compare asking prices on a given make, year and hours range. Remember that asking prices are not the same as sale prices, and that included extras like a trailer or covers will change the picture.
After the inspection
If the ski passes your checks, you can negotiate on price and work out how to pay. If you plan to finance a private purchase, check what documents your lender will need, so the sale does not stall at the last step.
This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or mechanical advice. Consider an independent professional inspection before buying.
