Most Common Problems with Bayliner Element F18
For under $20000, Bayliner Element F18 is a solid boat. People love it for fishing and other recreational activities.
Despite having an exceptionally stable design, powerful engine, and durable construction, it has some issues.
In this article, I have discussed the 7 most common problems with Bayliner Element F18 and tried to provide solutions. Let’s get started.
1. Loud Noise Closing the Hatches
It is a minor issue. While closing the lids, it makes a noise that can scare the fishes away from your fishing area.
So, installing rubber bumpers underneath those hatches is a very good and practical solution.
2. Water in Sponsons Problem
The M-hull design of Element F18 is not capable of draining. However, both F18 and E18 boats have the same issue.
The newer models or units don’t have the problem of having water in the sponsons.
Also, re-caulking can solve this issue for older builds.
Drilling holes to drain water is an instant and quick solution. But I recommend you not to do it by yourself; let your dealer handle it.
3. Quality Issue
Some of the customers are not happy about the quality of their brand-new Element F18.
Despite having a tight quality control team, large companies like Bayliner can’t ensure the same quality in all of their products.
As a boat includes hundreds of different parts and connections, you may experience some issues while boating.
But it does not mean that all units are faulty. So, you should not pay attention to the myths and rumors floating around the forums.
4. Riding Rough
I have seen that the boat doesn’t perform well on big waves.
Being not so smooth on rough waters can be a real problem to some people. Because everyone doesn’t fish in calm water.
The blame goes to the M hull design. It has both advantages and disadvantages. And, this is one of the downsides.
5. No Shade
I can’t say this is a problem. As not having a shade over the central console is a part of the design. And, it is a common practice.
So, you can call it a downside of the Element F18. Those who are planning to buy this model should also keep in mind that there would be an extra cost on shades.
It is a simple 18’ boat with not lots of wow or X factors to impress you.
The boat is for those who like to keep it simple and don’t want to spend a lot of time cleaning or maintaining it.
6. Bad Snap Buttons
One of the users of F18 complained that the snap button on the driver’s seat came off after some time.
It can happen to any other seat cushion. The buttons provided by the manufacturer seem durable but they can’t withstand a year of usage.
The problem has a simple and easy fix. All you have to do is buy some heavy-duty snap kit from Amazon, Walmart, or any other online platform.
One kit includes several buttons. So, you are covered.
Read the installation guide and put the button accordingly.
Tip: Do not throw away the washer from the original button. Because you can install it with the new one.
7. Not Starting
Like the other boats, the F18 users also complain that the boat has problems at starting.
You have to understand that there are no faults in production concerning this issue.
It can happen for lots of reasons which include bad connection, faulty wires, lack of charge, and problematic batteries.
So, you should troubleshoot the problem starting by checking the connections.
As the matter can be solved by simple tools, you won’t need the help of an expert. Even after ensuring all of those parts functioning properly, the issue may not get solved.
In that case, one should understand that it has become severe. Take it to the nearest servicing shop or your dealer to take care of it.
What Majority of the Users Feel About Bayliner Element F18?
This 18’ boat has an intelligent design having fishing and element hull deck features.
It is a simple boat with lots of convenient features so that you can have plenty of storage under the hood.
The 3 rod-holders on both sides of the console and small storage are convenient for fishing. Also, the cup holder can come in handy sometimes.
People love the cooler under the driver’s seat and the flip-back seat design.
The Bayliner F18 does a good job of handling the waves. However, you should not push the limits on big waves because it is only an 18 feet boat.
It is a combination of both worlds. The boat features include everything an angler likes. Also, the seats and spacious design please families for recreational activities.
Those are the things that most of the users feel about Element F18.
Final Thoughts
No boats are 100% perfect and the F18 is not an exception.
It has lots of good sides the design of the new Bayliner Element F18 is attractive.
However, you should keep in mind that the reselling price of the boat is not very much. So, the investment may not be wise in the long run.