11 PWC Maintenance Tips for Safety and Fun on the Water

Personal watercraft (PWCs), including jet skis, can be great fun, but using them safely is essential. In addition to wearing your life jacket and understanding the controls, you must also take care of them. 

Good PWC maintenance keeps jet skis running well longer and reduces the chances of breakdowns. Here are some of the most valuable reasons to take care of your jet ski and some crucial maintenance tips to keep it running right.

Why Routine Jet Ski Upkeep Matters

Owning a jet ski is about adventure and freedom on the water, but regular maintenance is key to keeping that experience enjoyable. Skipping basic upkeep can lead to performance issues, safety concerns, and expensive repairs.

Here's why routine maintenance is non-negotiable for jet ski owners.

Extends the Lifespan of Your Jet Ski

Regular jet ski upkeep prevents wear and tear from turning into major mechanical failures. When you maintain your PWC, you keep it performing like new for years, meaning you can spend more time on the water.

Your jet ski is exposed to the elements and mechanical stress every time you ride, so you want to protect it from that exposure as much as possible.

Ensures Safety on the Water

A malfunctioning jet ski can quickly become a safety hazard. Issues with the throttle, steering, or fuel system can lead to accidents or leave you stranded, putting you at risk.

By checking critical systems before every ride, you significantly reduce the risk of problems and keep yourself and your passengers safer.

Servicing a Jet Ski Prevents Costly Repairs

If you ignore minor issues with your PWC, they can quickly turn into much larger problems. Small problems may not seem like much at the time, but they aren't going to go away on their own. 

Routine jet ski maintenance helps you catch developing issues so they don't become major (or costly) repairs. 

Keeps Performance at Its Best

When your PWC is clean and well-maintained, it delivers better speed, responsiveness, and fuel efficiency. Regularly cleaning the impeller and jet pump helps the machine deliver maximum thrust and speed.

After all, you want your jet ski to perform the way it should, and proper maintenance can make a noticeable difference.

Protects Against Corrosion and Damage

Saltwater, dirt, and debris can cause rust and clog essential systems on your PWC. By flushing the engine and cleaning the hull, you can help prevent long-term damage.

Corrosion is one of the most significant issues most PWCs face, primarily when used in saltwater environments, so it's essential to keep everything clean and flush it well after each use.

Avoids Unexpected Breakdowns

You don't want to get stranded away from shore or the dock due to engine trouble.

Before you ride, check the battery, fuel system, and cooling system. Doing this will help reduce the risk of breakdowns and make it easier to return safely to the dock when your day on the water is over. 

Maintains Resale Value

A well-maintained jet ski retains more value if you sell or trade it. Keep service records and perform regular checkups to make it more appealing to buyers.

Servicing a jet ski isn't just about taking good care of it. It's also about being able to prove that you maintained it properly.

11 PWC Maintenance Tips

Caring for your jet ski doesn't have to be overwhelming. These essential maintenance tips will help you keep your PWC running smoothly all season. 

1. Follow the Manufacturer's Maintenance Schedules

Check your owner's manual for routine service intervals. Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and breakdowns, so follow the proper routine and timing.

2. Inspect and Clean the Hull

Wash the exterior after each use to remove salt, grime, and debris.

When cleaning your PWC, check for cracks or damage affecting buoyancy. It's much better to find a problem on land instead of when you're out on the water, far from the dock.

3. Flush the Engine After Every Ride

When you return from a ride, flush the engine with fresh water to remove salt and dirt buildup. This part of your PWC maintenance routine prevents corrosion and keeps the cooling system clean.

4. Check and Change the Oil

Regular oil changes extend engine life. Be sure to use manufacturer-recommended oil and change it per the service manual's schedule and instructions. 

5. Inspect the Battery

Check your PWC's battery for corrosion and keep the terminals clean. During the off-season, properly charge and store the battery to prolong its life. 

6. Maintain the Fuel System

Use fresh, high-quality fuel in your PWC, and add a stabilizer if storing it for a while. Also, regularly check fuel lines for cracks or leaks and replace any fuel lines with problems. 

7. Examine the Jet Pump and Impeller

Remove debris like seaweed or plastic from the jet pump to maintain thrust and efficiency. When doing that, take a moment to inspect the impeller for wear that could reduce performance. 

8. Keep the Cooling System Clear

Cooling system blockages can cause overheating, which can damage your PWC. Make sure water intake grates are debris-free so your cooling system will work as it should.

9. Test the Steering and Controls

You need proper control to stay safe on a PWC. This means the handlebars, throttle, and trim systems should work smoothly.

If you find stiffness or a lag in response, find the source of the issue and correct it before your next adventure.

10. Store Your PWC Properly

Use a cover to protect your PWC from the effects of the sun and weather. You also need to reduce wear and tear on the exterior, so you'll want to store it in a dry place or use a lift to prevent hull damage. 

11. Perform a Pre-Ride Safety Check

Before you head out on the water, check for loose bolts, proper fuel levels, and functional safety gear. Make sure you have a properly fitted life jacket and emergency lanyard, and that your passenger also has a life jacket that fits them correctly.

Boost Your PWC Safety on the Water With a Boat Education Course

The PWC maintenance tips we shared today should help prolong the life of your jet ski and keep you safe on the water!

Along with maintaining your PWC, a boater education course helps you stay safe on the water. The online course we offer here at Boat-Ed covers safety when operating boats or personal watercraft. Plus, most states and Canada require PWC operators to pass a boater education course and carry a boater education card.

As you think about the adventures you have planned on your PWC in the water this season, make sure you have the knowledge to stay safe!

Take the Boat-Ed course for your state or our course for Canadian boaters, and have fun this season.