Hi, yeah you should buy a new one. It is obvious that buying second hand would be cheaper and save a lot of money. It can also mean a lot of headache and an unreliable machine. Those machines can be really run hard if wanted. If you could find the right seller, used would be the way to go. Since I didn't have the right resource, I decided to buy a new old PWC. I chose a Yamaha and bought a 2006 which many still have. Right now Dealers are really wanting to move 2006 models with 2008 models coming in soon. I think I got a pretty good deal on a new 2006 Yamaha. It is a family toy and I wanted to feel safe if my wife took my kids out and not worrying that it might stop or have another problem.