Lawn Mower Won't Start? Here's What to Check Before Calling a Repair Shop

A lawn mower that won't start is the single most common repair issue we see at our shop. The good news? Many no-start problems have simple causes you can check yourself before bringing it in for professional repair.

## Step 1: Check the Fuel

Stale fuel is the #1 reason lawn mowers won't start, especially at the beginning of the season. Gasoline begins to degrade after just 30 days. If your mower sat all winter with gas in the tank, that fuel has likely gone bad. Drain the old fuel, replace it with fresh gas, and try again.

## Step 2: Inspect the Spark Plug

Remove the spark plug and examine it. A fouled, corroded, or cracked spark plug won't create the spark needed to ignite fuel. Replace it with the correct plug for your engine — they cost $3 to $8 at any hardware store. While it's out, pull the starter cord a few times to clear any flooded fuel from the cylinder.

## Step 3: Check the Air Filter

A severely clogged air filter can prevent starting by restricting airflow to the engine. Remove it and inspect. Paper filters should be replaced if dirty; foam filters can be washed with soap and water, dried, and lightly oiled.

## Step 4: Check the Safety Features

Modern mowers have safety interlock switches. On push mowers, the bail lever (handle bar) must be held down. On riding mowers, you must be seated, the brake engaged, and the blade disengaged. A faulty safety switch can prevent starting even when everything else is fine.

## Step 5: Listen for Clues

When you try to start the mower, what happens? Nothing at all may indicate a dead battery (riding mowers), bad starter, or safety switch issue. Cranks but won't fire suggests fuel or spark problems. A clicking sound often means a weak battery or bad solenoid.

## When to Call a Repair Shop

If you've checked the fuel, spark plug, air filter, and safety switches and your mower still won't start, it's time for professional diagnosis. The issue may be a clogged carburetor, failed ignition coil, low compression, or another internal problem that requires proper tools and experience to fix.

At Cherrone Equipment Service in Wakarusa, IN, we diagnose and repair lawn mowers every day. Most no-start repairs are quick and affordable. Call (574) 862-4933 to schedule your repair.