How Often Should I Service My Jet Ski?

by Fran Boyce on October 21, 2025 Categories: News

Owning a jet ski means endless fun on the water - but just like a car, your PWC (personal watercraft) needs regular servicing to keep it running smoothly and safely. One of the most common questions we hear at Friday’s Jet Skis is: “How often should I service my jet ski?”

Let’s break it down.

The General Rule: Once a Year or Every 50 Hours

As a general guide, most jet skis should be serviced once every 12 months or every 50 hours of use - whichever comes first.

If you’re riding often through summer or using your ski for fishing or towing, you’ll likely hit the 50-hour mark before the year is up. Either way, it’s important not to skip your annual service.

What’s Included in a Jet Ski Service?

A standard service typically includes:

Engine oil and filter change
Spark plug inspection or replacement
Fuel and cooling system checks
Battery and electrical inspection
Jet pump and impeller check
Greasing and lubrication
Full safety inspection and test run

At Friday’s Jet Skis, we also check for salt build-up and corrosion - common issues for riders in WA’s coastal waters.

After Saltwater Riding: Flush and Maintain Regularly

If you ride in saltwater (like most of us in Perth do), regular maintenance is key. Always:

Flush your engine after every ride using a quality product like the Salty Captain Engine Flush.
Rinse and dry your ski, paying extra attention to metal fittings and the engine bay.
Schedule mid-season checks if you ride frequently - this helps prevent corrosion and costly repairs.

Pre-Season and Post-Season Servicing

Before summer kicks off, a pre-season service ensures your jet ski is ready for long days on the water. At the end of the season, a post-season inspection helps prep your ski for storage and prevents deterioration during winter.