Suzuki Launches National “4-4-2” Trade-In Program to Replace Old 2-Stroke Outboards

Suzuki Marine USA has introduced a nationwide “4-4-2” program designed to encourage boat owners to replace older 2-stroke outboard motors with modern, fuel-efficient 4-stroke Suzuki engines. First unveiled at the 2024 Minneapolis Boat Show, the initiative offers dealers and customers financial incentives for trading in antiquated 2-stroke units and ensuring those engines are responsibly scrapped or recycled.

The transition from 2-stroke to 4-stroke outboards began in the 1990s when manufacturers adapted to new EPA air-quality standards. While 4-stroke technology has become common because of its improved emissions profile and greater fuel efficiency, many older 2-stroke engines remain in use on boats across the country. Suzuki’s program aims to accelerate the shift to cleaner, more efficient outboard power by reducing the financial barrier for boaters considering an upgrade.

How the 4-4-2 Program Works

Under the 4-4-2 plan, Suzuki offers trade-in incentives to dealers, which the dealers can pass along to customers who purchase a qualifying new Suzuki outboard. The incentive applies broadly: any 2-stroke outboard—regardless of brand or size—is eligible to be traded in for the program. Dealers who accept trade-ins are required to scrap or recycle the surrendered 2-stroke engines. If the scrapped engines generate scrap proceeds, dealers are given the option to donate that value to an environmental organization of their choice, tying the program directly to local conservation efforts.

The new Suzuki outboards eligible for the incentive range from small 2.5-horsepower models up to 350 horsepower, giving buyers a wide selection whether they need a lightweight kicker motor or a high-power main outboard for larger boats. By focusing on a broad horsepower range and welcoming trade-ins of any brand’s 2-stroke engines, the program seeks to make upgrades accessible for a variety of boaters and boating needs.

Pilot Donation and Community Support

To kick off the program, Dan’s Southside, a marine dealer in Minneapolis, committed to donating $4,000 to MN-Fish, a Minnesota nonprofit representing anglers, fishing clubs and industry stakeholders, for all 2-stroke engines scrapped during the pilot phase. Suzuki Marine reinforced the local initiative by offering to match that initial $4,000 donation. The combined contribution aims to build momentum for the program and strengthen community support for cleaner waterways and responsible boating practices.

Benefits for Boaters, Dealers and the Environment

Suzuki frames the 4-4-2 program as a win for multiple stakeholders. Boaters gain the opportunity to upgrade to newer outboard technology that generally offers improved fuel economy, lower emissions and modern features. Dealers receive financial incentives and an opportunity to demonstrate environmental stewardship. Communities and local waterways benefit when older, higher-emission engines are removed from service and disposed of through proper recycling channels.

“We know this program is going to generate more awareness for our engines and show we’re serious—along with our dealers and customers—about improving the health of our lakes, rivers and oceans,” said Brandon Cerka, Suzuki Marine’s general manager of sales and marketing. That message underscores the program’s dual focus on promoting Suzuki’s 4-stroke lineup and encouraging responsible disposal of legacy 2-stroke units.

Program Reach and Next Steps

Having launched the concept at a regional boat show and moved to national rollout, the 4-4-2 program is positioned to scale across Suzuki’s U.S. dealer network. Boaters interested in participating should contact a local Suzuki dealer to confirm current incentives, trade-in procedures and any local donation arrangements. Dealers who enroll in the program must handle the logistics of scrapping or recycling trade-ins, and they can direct any scrap proceeds toward environmental organizations if they choose.

By combining trade-in discounts, responsible disposal requirements and community-focused donations, Suzuki’s 4-4-2 initiative aims to make it straightforward for boaters to choose cleaner, more efficient outboard technology while contributing to local conservation efforts.