2017 Boston Whaler 170 Montauk — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $22,000–$36,000. There is 1 high-severity known issue you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
The Montauk is legendary for a reason — its foam-filled hull literally cannot sink. Whalers hold their value exceptionally well and are built to last decades. The main concern on a used one is deferred outboard service and the premium you pay for the name.
Known Issues for the 2017 Boston Whaler 170 Montauk
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
Whalers last forever; the outboards don't if neglected. Lower unit oil, impeller, spark plugs, and zincs need annual attention. Verify service records on the motor specifically.
Repair cost range: $200-$3,000 depending on what was neglected
Livewell and washdown pumps fail from prolonged non-use or salt exposure. Easy fix but check function during sea trial.
Repair cost range: $100-$300
If used in salt water, the console wiring can corrode at connections, causing electrical gremlins — gauges, lights, bilge pump.
Repair cost range: $200-$800
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Outboard with no service records
- ✗Salt water use without documented freshwater flushing after each trip
- ✗Any electrical system not functioning during inspection
Good Signs
- ✓Mercury or Yamaha outboard with annual dealer service
- ✓Freshwater use history
- ✓All electronics and pumps functioning on inspection
Found a specific Boston Whaler 170 Montauk?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2017 Boston Whaler 170 Montauk in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.
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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.