What to Look for in a Used Boat?
Buying a used boat is a great way to get a quality vessel for an affordable price. But there are some things you need to keep in mind when buying a used craft. We want to make the buying experience easier for you, so we’ve listed some tips for inspecting a used model. When you’re ready to check out used boats for sale, feel free to get in touch with us at our dealership.
Important Considerations
There are some special steps you must take to ensure you don’t get stuck with a used boat that ends up being a burden to you. First, make a list of your priorities so that when you start browsing models, you can conduct research on their performance. Begin with a broad search for reviews from previous owners. This will inform you of any recurring issues you want to avoid. Also be sure to ask the seller for a history report, which will provide you with more information on the boat’s maintenance and repair history.
Inspect the Boat
One of the most critical steps to take when shopping for a used boat is the inspection. Check both the exterior and interior of the boat. Look for any cracks longer than two inches, which could lead to problems. Some exterior flaws are only cosmetic but sometimes it could mean more problems. Check all electronics to confirm they are working properly. You can even ask a professional technician to perform their own inspection to try and spot something you may have missed.
Test the Fuel and Engine Oil
If the engine oil looks milky, then this means that water has gotten into the engine, which makes it a risky buy. If the oil has shavings in it, there could be a possibility that engine components are grinding against each other, which sets you up for expensive repairs. You’ll be glad you took the time to thoroughly inspect a used boat as this can save you from making a costly mistake.
Take a Test Drive
If everything looks fine on your visual inspection, the next step is to take the boat out for a spin on the water so you can get a feel for how it moves and see if it’s the right one for you. Make sure that the engine doesn’t sputter and look for anything out of the ordinary, such as odd sounds or vibrations that could indicate major issues. You may have found your perfect fit if it functions properly and is within your budget.
These are just some of the things to look for in a used boat. Reach out to our helpful team at Chatlee Boat & Marine for more information on buying a pre-owned boat. We are located in Sanford, NC, and we also proudly serve Raleigh and Greensboro.