Your lawn mower won’t start? Don’t call a repair shop yet! Follow these 7 simple troubleshooting steps to diagnose and fix the most common problems yourself.
Empathize with the reader’s frustration. A non-starting mower is a common issue, and the solution is often simple and free.
Safety Reminder: Always disconnect the spark plug wire before touching the blade or engine.
The 7-Step Diagnostic Checklist: (Ordered from easiest/cheapest to more complex).
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Step 1: Check the Obvious. Is there gas in the tank? Is the spark plug wire connected? Is the battery charged (for electric start)?
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Step 2: Old Gas. This is the #1 cause. Gas degrades in 30 days. Siphon out old gas and refill with fresh fuel.
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Step 3: Check the Fuel Valve. On some models, it must be turned to “ON”.
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Step 4: Prime & Choke. Is the primer bulb being pressed 3x? Is the choke in the correct position for a cold start?
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Step 5: Check the Air Filter. A clogged filter prevents air from entering the engine. Remove and clean or replace it.
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Step 6: Check the Spark Plug. Remove it. Is it fouled, corroded, or cracked? Clean it with a wire brush or replace it. (A very common fix).
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Step 7: The Carburetor. If all else fails, the carburetor jets are likely clogged with old gas varnish. This often requires a professional cleaning.
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Conclusion: 9 out of 10 starting problems are solved by Steps 1-6. This process can save you time and money on a service call.
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