The Best Time to Get a Lawn Mower Tune-Up (And Why It Matters)

Most people wait until the first warm weekend of spring to pull out their mower — and discover it won't start. By then, every repair shop in town has a two-week backlog. Here's how to time your tune-up right.

## Late Winter: The Ideal Window

February and early March are the best times to bring your mower in for service. Repair shops are slow, turnaround is fast (often same-day or next-day), and you'll have your mower ready well before the first cut of the season. Many shops offer early-season discounts during this period.

## What a Tune-Up Includes

A proper lawn mower tune-up covers all the maintenance items your mower needs for reliable operation: oil change with fresh oil, new spark plug, air filter service or replacement, blade sharpening and balancing, and a full inspection of belts, cables, tires, and safety systems.

## Why Annual Tune-Ups Matter

Regular tune-ups prevent expensive repairs. A $5 air filter replaced annually prevents $200 worth of carburetor damage from dirt ingestion. Fresh oil prevents premature engine wear. Sharp blades cut cleaner, reducing stress on the engine and giving you a healthier lawn.

Think of it like an oil change for your car — it's preventive maintenance that pays for itself many times over by extending the life of your equipment.

## End-of-Season Service

Fall is the second-best time for service. Winterizing your mower — stabilizing fuel, changing oil, cleaning the deck — protects it through months of cold storage and ensures an easy start come spring.

At Cherrone Equipment Service in Wakarusa, we recommend bringing your mower in during February or March for the fastest turnaround and best value. Call (574) 862-4933 to schedule.