In 2017, there were about 262,000 boats sold in the United States.

If you want to be one of the thousands of people to now own a boat, you may want to consider buying a used one.

Boats can be expensive, but if you can find a used one in decent condition, you’ll be able to save a lot of money.

Buying a used boat is a financially savvy way to hit the water. Here is exactly what to look for when buying a used boat to avoid disaster.

Look for Cracks

One thing to make sure you look for is if there are any cracks in the boat. They may not be big cracks, so make sure you look closely.

There could be small cracks like spiderwebs in only a few areas of the boat. While most of them are cosmetic, it still may be something to consider.

These cracks will appear around the screw that isn’t countersunk properly around some handles or wind-shields. They’re not a big deal, but they may get worse if you don’t fix them.

If there is a crack that is longer than two inches, this could be a hint at a bigger problem. Make sure you ask if the boat has ever been in a crash.

Look for Mildew

You should look for mildew as well. Check the top of the boat, the carpet, and the seats. If there are storage lockers, make sure you check those as well.

The upholstery of seats can be replaced, but if the mold and mildew are inside the seat, you probably have a bigger problem.

Mold can spread easily, so it’s likely that it’s not just in one localized part of the boat.

Look at the Fuel System

After you check for mold and mildew, make sure you check the fuel system of the boat as well.

If you review the fuel system, the engine should perform well. This may take a while, especially if you start at the fuel tank.

However, doing this before you commit to buying a boat isn’t a bad idea. If it’s going to need some repairs, you should know just how much more the boat will cost you in the long run.

Start the Engine

Lastly, make sure that you have them start the engine before you commit to anything.

How does the engine sound? Does it start roughly or smoothly? Does it make any extra noises? Is there any smoke coming from it?

If there is old gas or oil in the boat, it may be causing some of these problems. However, they could also be indicative of a larger, more expensive problem.

You should also make sure to check the outboard motor shaft length.

Learn More About What to Look for When Buying a Used Boat

These are only a few things to know about what to look for when buying a used boat. While it can save you money, make sure that you are also buying from a reputable buyer.

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