Questions to ask when buying a used boat

Purchasing a boat is an exciting experience. But before you make an offer, there are several questions to ask when buying a used boat to get vital information and avoid surprises. Asking the right questions upfront will help you determine if the boat is a good value and meets your intended use.

Reason for Sale

Knowing why the owner is selling gives insight into any potential issues or problems. Listen closely to the answer for any concerning reasons like frequent breakdowns, excessive damage history, or a desperate need for quick cash.

Some specific questions to ask:

• Why are you selling the boat?
• How long have you owned it?
• How many hours per year did you use it?
• Did any issues prompt you to sell?

See Also: What to look for when buying a Used Boat.

Engine Hours and Maintenance

The hour meter indicates the amount of wear and tear on the engine. For inboard engines over 500 hours, perform compression checks. Outboard engines under 300 hours may still be under warranty.

Ask about maintenance logs and records. Annual maintenance is crucial, especially for boats operated in saltwater which accelerates corrosion. Long gaps in service can signal future problems.

Specific maintenance questions:

• How many engine hours are shown on the gauge?
• Has regular maintenance been performed per the manufacturer’s schedule?
• Were any major repairs or engine overhauls done?
• Do you have maintenance logs or receipts?

Here is a table of the typical recommended maintenance schedule for different components of a boat. you should ask a seller if they kept up with any or all of these:

System	Maintenance	Frequency
Engine	Oil Change	Every 100 hours or annually
Engine	Spark Plugs	As recommended by manufacturer
Engine	Fuel Filter	Every 100 hours or annually
Engine	Cooling System Flush	Every 100 hours or annually
Drive Unit	Lower Unit Oil Change	Every 100 hours or annually
Drive Unit	Water Pump Impeller	Every 100 hours or annually
Steering	Fluid Check	Every 100 hours or annually
Electrical	Battery Check	Monthly
Electrical	Wiring Inspection	Annually

Accident and Damage History

Accidents, even minor ones, can cause underlying issues that are hard to detect. Ask specifically if any insurance claims were filed and if repairs were completed by certified mechanics. Improper repairs may be unsafe.

Questions to uncover damage history:

• Has the boat ever been in an accident?
• Were any insurance claims filed?
• Did a certified marine mechanic make repairs?
• Does all equipment operate properly?

You might also be interested in reading: The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Boat

Equipment and Features

Verify that all equipment, electronics, canvas, safety gear, and the trailer are included in the asking price. Don’t assume anything is included.

Make a list of gear and features that are important to you and confirm each one is present and operational.

Examples:

• Electronics – GPS, fishfinder, VHF radio
• Canvas – Bimini top, boat cover
• Safety – PFDs, fire extinguisher, flares
• Trailer – Tires, bearings, lights

Sea Trial

A sea trial is an absolute must before purchase! Take the boat through its paces to personally assess overall performance and handling. Have a mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection to identify any issues that may have been overlooked.

Sea trial checklist:

• Top speed runs
• Acceleration
• Controls and steering
• Electronics
• Engine temperature and performance
• Excessive vibration or noise
• Leaks

Title, Registration, and Insurance

• Confirm the title is free and clear of any liens.
• Review the HIN number and registration validity
• Verify required registration and titling fees for your state
• Ensure the boat has the proper insurance required

This protects you from inheriting obligations still tied to the boat.

Safety Equipment

Closely inspect life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares and other safety gear. Make sure all equipment is in good shape and meets USCG regulations. Check that nothing is expired – this can result in fines if stopped by authorities.

Safety gear checklist:

• Life jackets – proper type and size
• Fire extinguishers – charged and current inspection
• Flares – not expired
• Throwable PFDs – present and in good shape
• First aid kit

Conclusion

Asking the right used boat questions upfront helps uncover any issues and ensures you get honest answers before purchasing. Take your time, get all the facts, go for a thorough sea trial, and have a mechanic inspect the engine. Being an informed buyer will give you the confidence to make a sound boat buying decision.

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