2019 Boston Whaler 240 Dauntless — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $70,000–$100,000. There is 1 high-severity known issue you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
The 'unsinkable' legend in a versatile mid-size hull — Boston Whaler's foam-cored construction, superb build quality, and best-in-class resale make the 240 Dauntless a bulletproof choice for fishing and family boating alike. The big outboard's hours and health are the main event, plus the usual salt-use and electronics checks. A documented Whaler holds value like nothing else; verify the outboard and salt history.
Known Issues for the 2019 Boston Whaler 240 Dauntless
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
The big outboard is the main expense; verify hours, compression, service history, and clean running.
Repair cost range: $1,000-$15,000+
Salt use corrodes hardware, electronics, and the powerhead if not flushed; verify flushing and inspect for corrosion.
Repair cost range: Varies
Verify the electronics, wiring, pumps, and rigging function — saltwater is hard on them.
Repair cost range: $300-$5,000
Inspect the gelcoat, hardware, and upholstery; Whalers wear well but check.
Repair cost range: $200-$2,500
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗High-hour/neglected outboard
- ✗Salt corrosion / no flushing
- ✗Dead or corroded electronics
- ✗Storm/impact damage
Good Signs
- ✓Serviced outboard, strong compression
- ✓Flushed/freshwater use, no corrosion
- ✓Working electronics, clean rigging
Found a specific Boston Whaler 240 Dauntless?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2019 Boston Whaler 240 Dauntless 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.