How to Keep Your PWC Running Smoothly: Essential Care & Maintenance Tips

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. Maintenance needs vary by model and usage. Insurance coverage also differs by policy. To find out what protection is right for you, speak with a licensed Sun Coast General Insurance Agency representative.

Why PWC Maintenance Matters

Personal watercraft (like Jet Skis®, Sea-Doos®, and WaveRunners®) are built for fun — but they’re also high-performance machines. Staying on top of basic maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, extends the life of your engine, and keeps every ride safer and more predictable.

Most PWCs can stay in excellent shape with simple, consistent care. Here’s what riders should focus on before, during, and after days on the water.

Regular PWC Maintenance Practices

1. Rinse and Flush After Every Ride

PWCs pull in large amounts of water for propulsion. Whether you’re in saltwater or fresh water, debris or minerals can build up inside the cooling system.

• Flush the engine with clean water after every use
• Rinse the exterior, pump, and trailer
• Use a corrosion inhibitor when riding in saltwater

This is one of the simplest steps to keep your PWC performing like new.

2. Check and Change the Oil

If your PWC has a four-stroke engine (most newer models do), regular oil and filter changes are key.

• Check oil levels before each ride
• Change oil and filters at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals

Routine oil maintenance helps prevent internal wear and overheating.

3. Inspect the Jet Pump and Impeller

Rope, weeds, fishing line, and debris can get wrapped around the impeller.

• Check for vibration, poor acceleration, or strange noises
• Inspect the pump for damage after grounding or shallow-water riding

A clean, damage-free impeller ensures smooth acceleration and top speed.

4. Keep the Battery Healthy

Batteries drain faster than most people expect, especially during off-season storage.

• Charge the battery every few weeks
• Disconnect it when storing long-term
• Consider using a battery tender

A strong battery prevents frustrating no-start situations months later.

5. Inspect the Hull and Topside

Look for cracks, chips, loose hardware, or faded decals. Minor issues can become bigger problems without quick attention.

• Repair gel coat damage early
• Tighten loose bolts or grab handles
• Check footwell padding and seat condition

6. Maintain Safety Gear and Electrical Components

Better performance also means better safety.

• Test your bilge pump
• Inspect your lanyard kill switch
• Check navigation lights if riding at dusk

Small components play a big role in preventing emergencies.

7. Seasonal or Annual Maintenance

At least once a year, most PWCs should receive:

• A full engine inspection
• Spark plug replacement
• Jet pump service
• Cooling system check
• Steering and throttle cable lubrication

This deeper maintenance helps ensure reliability across seasons — especially for riders who alternate between lakes, rivers, and coastal waters.

Thinking about protecting your PWC? Get a free quote for personal watercraft insurance through Sun Coast’s general marine insurance options.

Example: A Rider Who Stays Ahead of Problems

Maya rides in saltwater most weekends and stores her PWC by the coast. By flushing her engine, rinsing everything down, checking for debris in the pump, and booking a yearly tune-up, she’s avoided expensive repairs and keeps her PWC feeling fast and responsive. Without that routine care, corrosion and build-up could easily shorten her engine’s lifespan.

Conclusion

Caring for your PWC doesn’t need to be complicated. A simple rinse-and-flush routine, consistent inspections, and annual servicing can go a long way in keeping your watercraft reliable and fun to ride.

If you’re looking to protect your PWC on and off the water, request a free marine insurance quote from Sun Coast today.