Used Boat Life Expectancy

One important question to ask when shopping for a used boat is how long it will last. A used boat might not cost as much as a new model, but you still want to get at least a few years of usage out of it. This guide from the experts at JR Motors can help you determine the used boat’s life expectancy. 

Level Of Maintenance

There are many factors that determine a used boat’s lifespan, but the single biggest one is how well previous owners maintained the vessel. An old vessel that has been diligently maintained can sometimes perform almost as well as it could when it was new. At the same time, there are vessels that are only four or five years old that have been all but ruined by a total lack of maintenance. This is part of the reason why taking steps like inspecting the vessel and asking for a test drive are so important when it comes to buying a used boat. It’s also a good reminder of why boat ownership involves so much responsibility. 

Extra Factors

Maintenance is easily the biggest factor determining a used boat’s lifespan, but what about the other factors. Size is one example, with larger vessels generally lasting longer. There’s also boat type, as certain types of watercraft such as speed boats and wake boats prioritize performance over long term durability. One wrinkle to consider is the engine. If the boat’s engine is shot, then you won’t get very far, even if the rest of the vessel isn’t in bad condition. Of course, this is less of a problem when it comes to boats that have outboard motors. 

Shop used boats at JR Motors. Feel free to visit us online or at our dealerships in Lake Havasu City and Parker, Arizona. We also offer servicing, parts requests, promotions, trade-ins, rentals, and financing. We’re proud to serve communities like Blythe, Arizona, and we hope to see you soon!