Dealers offer used boat warranties

The Boating Industry Association has taken most of the risk out of buying a used boat by launching a new used-boat warranty program that provides peace of mind for purchasers.

The program, which applies to all used boats and personal watercraft brought from a participating BIA marine dealer, ensures that customers are not buying someone's problem vessel.

Before a used boat can be brought onto a participating BIA dealer's yard it must undergo, and pass, an extensive range of tests. The history of the boat is checked to insure clear title and there is a 50-point pre-sale inspection to ensure that the vessel is fully operational and mechanically sound.

The scheme is designed to ensure that only the best BIA used boats can be offered for sale as a BIA Certified Used Boat. Consumers can tow away their new boat knowing they have bought a quality boat commensurate to its age and hour-meter reading.

Every boat, motor and trailer package covered by the BIA Certified Used Boat Warranty is fully covered for 12 months against mechanical failure. For a small additional fee, at the time of purchase, the boat buyer can extend the warranty period to two years.

The expansive warranty covers most parts and components. The outboard is covered from the gearcase through to the flywheel and everything in-between. On the boat, the instruments, wiring, windscreen, steering and fuel system are all covered. With the trailer, the winch, wheel bearings and coupling also included.

There are limits. The warranty is limited to a total of $7500, and there are specified limits to individual items and assemblies.

As their part of the deal, boat owners are required to have the boat services every 12 months or 100 hours.

The BIA Dealer Certified Used Boat Warranty is managed by Nautilus Marine. Mark Crockford, Nautilus Marine's sales and marketing director, says the program elevates the quality of stock held by marine retailers.

"The stringent 50-point safety check ensures the used boat stock is among the best in the business and removes any risk associated with buying privately or from overseas."