Quick Answer
Winterizing a jet ski costs $25-$60 DIY or $150-$300 professional. Storage runs $40-$200/month depending on type. The total cost for a full winter season (winterization + 5 months storage) ranges from $225-$1,300. Skipping winterization risks $2,000-$5,000+ in engine damage from a single freeze.
Step-by-Step Jet Ski Winterization
Follow these steps in order after your last ride of the season. The entire process takes 1-2 hours for a DIY approach.
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Flush the engine with fresh water. Connect a garden hose to the flush port and run the engine at idle for 3-5 minutes. This removes all salt, sand, and debris from the cooling system. For saltwater jet skis, this step is critical to prevent internal corrosion.
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Add fuel stabilizer and fill the tank. Add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer (follow the product label), then fill the tank to at least 90% capacity. Run the engine for 2-3 minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel through the entire fuel system. A full tank prevents moisture condensation.
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Fog the engine. With the engine running, spray fogging oil into the air intake or carburetor(s) until the engine stalls. This coats all internal engine surfaces with a protective oil film that prevents corrosion during storage. Check your owner's manual for your specific model's fogging procedure.
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Drain all water from the exhaust and engine. Tip the jet ski nose-up on the trailer to allow all water to drain from the exhaust system. Rock it gently side to side. On some models, you may need to remove drain plugs. Any water left in the system can freeze and crack the exhaust manifold or engine block.
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Add RV antifreeze to the cooling system. For closed-loop cooling systems, add non-toxic RV antifreeze (not automotive antifreeze) to protect against any residual water freezing. Pour it into the flush port or follow your model's specific procedure.
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Remove and charge the battery. Disconnect the battery and bring it indoors. Connect it to a battery tender/maintainer for the duration of storage. Batteries left on a discharged jet ski through winter will die permanently. A new battery costs $100-$250.
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Lubricate all fittings and cables. Grease all steering cable fittings, throttle cables, and any zerk fittings. Spray corrosion inhibitor on exposed metal components, electrical connections, and the jet pump.
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Clean the hull and inspect for damage. Wash the exterior thoroughly and inspect for any cracks, gouges, or gelcoat damage. Repair any damage before storage to prevent moisture intrusion over winter.
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Cover and store properly. Place a fitted, breathable jet ski cover over the unit. Store on the trailer with the nose elevated slightly to allow any remaining water to drain. Never store a jet ski flat if water could pool inside.
Jet Ski Storage Options and Costs
| Storage Type |
Monthly Cost |
Seasonal (5 mo) |
Best For |
| Your Garage/Home |
$0 |
$0 |
If you have space, the best free option |
| Outdoor Lot |
$40-$75 |
$200-$375 |
Budget option, mild winter areas |
| Covered Storage |
$60-$125 |
$300-$625 |
Rain and snow protection, good value |
| Indoor Storage |
$100-$200 |
$500-$1,000 |
Best protection, harsh winter areas |
| Dealer Storage Package |
$80-$160 |
$400-$800 |
Winterization + storage combo, hands-off |
Many jet ski dealerships offer winterization and storage packages that bundle everything together. These typically include full winterization, indoor storage for the season, and spring de-winterization for $400-$800 total. This is the most convenient option if you do not want to DIY. Compare options near you with our cost calculator.
Total Winter Season Cost Breakdown
| Expense |
DIY Budget |
Professional |
Dealer Package |
| Winterization |
$40 (supplies) |
$200 |
Included |
| Storage (5 months) |
$0 (garage) |
$400 |
Included |
| De-winterization |
$0 (DIY) |
$75-$150 |
Included |
| Cover |
$75 |
$75 |
$0 (indoor) |
| Total Season |
$115 |
$675-$825 |
$400-$800 |
Spring De-Winterization Checklist
When temperatures stay above 50 degrees consistently, it is time to bring your jet ski out of storage. Follow these steps before your first ride.
- Reinstall the fully charged battery
- Check all fluid levels and top off as needed
- Inspect the hull, intake grate, and jet pump for any damage or debris
- Check the fuel system for leaks or cracked fuel lines
- Connect the hose and run the engine at idle for 2-3 minutes to flush fogging oil
- Check tire pressure on the trailer (if applicable)
- Inspect the fire extinguisher (required in many states)
- Re-register if your registration lapsed during storage
- Take a slow first ride, checking gauges and handling before going full throttle
Use our seasonal planner to find the ideal de-winterization timing for your state.
Find Jet Ski Storage Near You
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Jet Ski Storage FAQ
How much does it cost to winterize a jet ski?
Professional jet ski winterization costs $150-$300 depending on the service level. DIY winterization costs $25-$60 in supplies (fuel stabilizer, antifreeze, fogging oil, battery tender). Most dealerships offer winterization packages that include storage for $400-$800 for the full season.
How much does jet ski storage cost?
Jet ski storage costs $40-$200 per month depending on the type. Outdoor storage runs $40-$75/month, covered storage is $60-$125/month, and indoor climate-controlled storage costs $100-$200/month. Many facilities offer seasonal rates of $250-$600 for a 5-6 month winter season.
Can I leave my jet ski outside in winter?
You can leave a properly winterized jet ski outside in winter if you use a quality, fitted cover and elevate it on a stand or trailer. However, indoor storage is strongly recommended in areas with heavy snow, freezing rain, or temperatures consistently below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow and ice accumulation can damage the cover, hull, and seals over time.
What happens if you do not winterize a jet ski?
Skipping winterization can cause serious damage: water left in the engine or exhaust can freeze and crack the engine block ($2,000-$5,000 to replace), fuel left untreated turns to varnish and clogs the fuel system ($300-$800 to clean), batteries die permanently ($100-$250 replacement), and corrosion forms throughout the cooling system. Total repair cost from skipped winterization can easily exceed $3,000.
When should I winterize my jet ski?
Winterize your jet ski before the first freeze in your area. In most northern states, this means late September through mid-October. Do not wait until it is already freezing - a single overnight freeze with water in the engine can cause permanent damage. Use our seasonal planner to find the right timing for your state.