The Importance of Winterizing Your Outboard Motor

As every Minnesota boater knows, our seasons change quickly—from summer days on the lake to subzero winters that put everything into hibernation. One of the most important steps in protecting your investment is properly winterizing your outboard motor before the cold sets in.

When water freezes inside your motor, it can expand and cause cracks in the lower unit, or fuel system—repairs that can cost thousands. Even if freezing damage doesn’t occur, untreated fuel can gum up carburetors and injectors, while moisture left in the system may lead to corrosion. Skipping winterization often means spring headaches instead of smooth launching.

Winterizing typically includes stabilizing the fuel, fogging the engine, draining water from the cooling system, changing lower unit oil, and greasing key fittings. These steps ensure that when the ice finally melts and fishing opener arrives, your motor will fire up without issue.

In Minnesota, where boating season is short and winters are long, winterization isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a necessity. A few hours of preparation in the fall can save you money, extend the life of your motor, and guarantee that your next season on the water starts without delay.