7 Simple Reasons Your Mower Won’t Start
What’s more frustrating than a lawn mower that won’t start?
There are a lot of things that can cause your mower to have some trouble starting up.
But don’t take it to the costly repair shop quite yet.
First, see these 7 simple reasons your mower might not start.
1) Out of Gas
It sounds crazy, but it happens!
Make sure you check your fuel level each time before you fire up your mower.
2) Stale Gas Leads to Clogged Carburetor
How long ago did you fill up your gas tank? And how old was the gas you used?
Gas only has a shelf life of about 30 days because of the ethanol it contains. If you have old gas in your tank, the ethanol may have caused corrosion and clogged your carburetor.
Learn more about the dangers of ethanol in power equipment »
3) Clogged Fuel Filter
The purpose of the fuel filter is to filter out all of the sediment from the gasoline.
This filter can get clogged up from normal sediment, or from stale gas containing ethanol.
The lack of proper fuel flow to the carburetor will prevent your mower from starting.
If this is the case, the fuel filter will need to be replaced.
4) Dead battery
Batteries typically last a long time, but there isn’t always a warning sign that it is going dead. Check your battery with a voltmeter to see if it’s lacking juice.
If you have a 12V battery, the voltage should read very close to 12V. If it’s less, your battery may not have enough juice to start the mower.
5) Bad Starter Solenoid
If you turn the key in your ignition, and hear a clicking sound, it is probably your starter solenoid.
If you notice this clicking, your best bet is to install a new starter solenoid.
6) Disconnected or Dirty Spark Plug
Did you recently perform maintenance? Maybe you left your spark plug wire un-hooked! Be sure to check this out, this is a quick and simple fix.
Your spark plug could also be dirty or damaged. Spark plugs are cheap, so try replacing your spark plug.
See how to service your spark plug here »
7) Dirty Air Filter
The carburetor needs air to make the engine run. If the air filter is dirty, it may not let air to the carburetor. Also, if the air filter is torn, debris could have flown into the carburetor or engine and is preventing your mower from starting.
Learn how to check and change your air filter here»
Did any of these quick-fixes solve your starting problem?
Always remember to keep up with routine care and maintenance to keep your lawn mower in top condition and to prevent some of these problems from occurring.
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