Sea-Doo Winterization Guide

Protect your investment before the cold sets in. This guide walks you through BRP's recommended end-of-season storage sequence for Sea-Doo PWC and Switch models. Always verify that products are compatible with your specific model and model year before purchasing. Consult your owner's manual or a certified Sea-Doo technician if you have any questions.

Step 1 — Clean and inspect the Jet Pump

Before starting maintenance, inspect the jet pump — the propulsion system that draws and expels water at the rear of your PWC.

• Check the intake grate and impeller for weeds, rocks, or debris.

• Rinse with clean water to remove any residue.

• Spray a light coat of anti-corrosive lubricant on metal parts.

 

Sea-Doo XPS Anti-Corrosion Lubricant — BRP's OEM-recommended formula

Step 2 — Flush the Engine & Cooling System

After your last ride, flush the engine with fresh water using the flush fitting on your watercraft (refer to your owner's manual for the correct procedure for your model). This removes salt, minerals, and debris from the cooling passages. Skipping this step can cause corrosion damage over the winter.

Model note: Flush procedures differ between Rotax 4-TEC, 900 ACE, and Switch hull engines. Confirm the correct method in your owner's manual.

Step 3 — Treat the Fuel System

If you plan to leave fuel in the tank over winter, use a fuel stabilizer to prevent varnish build-up and fuel degradation. Alternatively, run the tank dry and add a small amount of stabilizer to protect the fuel lines and carb/injectors. Consult your owner's manual for BRP's recommended approach for your model.

Sta-Bil Marine Formula Fuel Additive

Step 4 — Change the Engine Oil & Filter

Fresh oil over winter prevents acids and contaminants in used oil from corroding internal engine components during storage. BRP recommends changing the oil and filter at the end of every season.

Always verify the kit matches your engine displacement and model year before ordering.

Step 5— Fog the Engine and Protect Internal Parts

Fogging coats the inside of the engine to prevent corrosion.

• Remove ignition coils and spark plugs.

• Spray XPS Storage Oil (fogging oil) into each cylinder.

• Hold the throttle fully open and crank the engine 2–3 seconds to distribute oil.

• Apply a small amount of lubricant to spark plug threads.

• Reinstall spark plugs and ignition coils.

Step 6 — Protect Internal Engine Surfaces

After the oil change and plug replacement, apply an anti-corrosion treatment to protect metal surfaces inside the engine and bilge from moisture and oxidation during storage.

Follow the application instructions in your owner's manual or on the product label. Application method varies by model.

Step 7 — Lubricate Cables and Seals

Spray anti-corrosive lubricant for personal watercraft on:

- Steering and throttle cables

- Reverse and brake linkages

- Hinges and exposed metal parts

• Wipe off any excess residue.

Step 8 — Check Coolant (Closed-Loop Systems)

Sea-Doo models with closed-loop cooling systems require coolant inspection before winter storage. Low or degraded coolant can cause freeze damage in climates where temperatures drop below freezing.

Open-loop (direct water-cooled) models do not use a coolant reservoir. Confirm your cooling system type in your owner's manual before purchasing.

Step 9 — Antifreeze Exhaust & Intercooler

Even though you have a closed loop cooling system, it is important in cold weather climates to run antifreeze through your exhaust system and intercoolers.

Step 10 — Battery Removal and Maintenance

Your battery can lose its charge or freeze if stored incorrectly.

• Disconnect the battery, starting with the negative (–) terminal.

• Remove and store it in a cool, dry, ventilated area.

• Connect to a battery maintainer or trickle charger.

• Replace if it no longer holds a full charge.

 

Our selection of YUASA batteries

Step 11 — Clean & Cover

Thoroughly wash and dry the hull, deck, and interior before storage to prevent mildew and UV damage. Then cover the watercraft to shield it from dust, debris, and weather.

Shop BRP OEM covers by model:

Find the full line of XPS cleaners here

Cover fitment is model-specific. Confirm your model year and hull type before ordering.

Step 12 — Replace Spark Plugs

When riding season is about to begin. Run your machine on the flush house for one minute to flush fogging oil from your engine. Installing fresh new spark plugs helps your engine run at peak performance.

Plug specifications vary by engine. Check your owner's manual or the product listing for fitment information before purchasing.

All Maintenance & Care Products

Looking for additional parts, fluids, or accessories? Browse our full maintenance collections:

Disclaimer: This guide is intended as a general reference based on BRP's published winterization recommendations. Product compatibility, specifications, and procedures vary by model and model year. Always consult your owner's manual or a certified Sea-Doo technician before performing service. Sea-Doo Superstore is not responsible for any damage resulting from improper application of the information on this page.