Still searching for my first Boat....

[sgoyal]

I have already tested 2006 180SE and 2010 sea doo challenger 180.....

Both boats are in still owner possession so far. Now I found 2011 model 180SE (215HP)... only 14 hrs with warranty left (1 year motor warranty ends July 2012). The owner got health issue and willing to sell the boat for 19K OTD. It's just too far (12 hour drive one way) for me that's what holding me to go and do a water test.

The owner said he did his own break-in service (that's where I'm confused)... I thought that you have to take it to dealer to get something done. of course, i can take it myself once I buy it since it's still has some time on 1st year warranty.

Please let me know if I should watch anything in 2011.

 

[SDIII]

I had a 2011 180 SE, it is a fantastic boat. I really like the changes they made over the 2010 model, especially with the dash area, controls, and the decals on the side of the boat are no longer stickers but rich looking silver raised letters. If you are NOT paying cash, it totally makes sense to purchase a 2012 model with full 3 year warranty and an amazing 3.99% financing rate. Buying a used boat is scary, especially from a private party. You don't know if they broke the engine in properly, and if they religously flushed it out after every use. Those things are very very important to preserve the engine and extend the lifespan of the boat. I wouldn't let distance deter you from your purchase of a specific boat. I live in pennsylvania and all the local dealers are absolutely terrible for both sales and service. I ended up buying from a dealer that is 11 hours away and have actually bought two boats from them. The knowledge, HONESTY, and buying experience they provided is second to none. I recommend you give the owner a call, her name is MARTHA, she is wonderful. If nothing else, she can give you some great buying advice if you insist on only buying locally. Their website is Schroncepowersports.com in North Carolina. Good Luck and Congrats!!! Paul

 

[cycleguy88]

with 14 hours, you'd barely be past break in service. I'd just get it and take it to the dealer for a service. It should be around $250.

 

[sgoyal]

I'm paying cash and that's the reason, owner came down to 19K (he's also giving up extra accessories such as poppy cover he bought on top of the OEM)....

I've never driven that far with trailer behind my SUV that's why I am/was little scare to drive far away. I'm going to ask my friends around, if they can ride with me, and grab this puppy. gotta talk to owner and find out if he can hold the boat for a week before I make my plan.

The owner seems like a very knowledge about boats and sounds like he kept this boat like his baby. He said I'm selling my new born baby to you due to health issue he got lately. (LOL I replied, I don't buy baby but I can adopt it for free HAHA)

 

[cycleguy88]

towing on the freeway is a snap man. You'll be fine going that far to pick it up. $19k is about 4k less than he should ask, so you're doing good on that one. Good luck.

 

[timeman]

Check the internet,(boat trader, google, local boat dealers,etc), and see if there is a "BOAT SURVEYOR" in the area where the boat is. I'm guessing 12 hours equates to 750-1000 miles, so just your gas savings should cover much of the cost to have a trained professional look at it.

 

[sgoyal]

I just called the Sea-doo and they said Warranty runs out on July 22nd and I can get an extended Warranty from the Sea Doo dealer if I wish. Please let me know if it's possible.. or there's no reason to get extended warranty...(I just want piece of mind)

 

[SDIII]

It is personal preference. I would purchase the warranty for peace of mind. Anything can happen, especially when your mixing water with the mechanicals of an engine. So many possibilities for problems to arise, nice to know that for a little extra cash, you wil be able to enjoy the boat without worrying if something goes bad.

 

[SDIII]

My first new boat (sea doo) last year was brand new. After five minutes on the water, the "low oil pressure" light came on. I turned around, put it back on the trailer took it to the dealer. Long story short, it got the engine replaced. Five minutes on the engine total at idle speed and it needed replacing. Anything can happen. Guess that's why I am in favor of extended warranties.

 

[Sky-Guy]

towing on the freeway is a snap man. You'll be fine going that far to pick it up. $19k is about 4k less than he should ask, so you're doing good on that one. Good luck.

Hmmm... MSRP on 2012 180SE is $26,199... anyone have actual retail pricing? I'm looking to buy one for export and am curious what I can expect to really pay a dealer out the door (no tax, export).
Anyone bout a new 180 care to share their otd price?
Thanks.