Lawn Mower Maintenance: How to Keep Your Lawn Mower Running Like New

A well-maintained lawn mower is key to keeping your yard looking its best all season long. Regular maintenance ensures great performance and also extends the life of your equipment. Whether you have a walk-behind mower, a push mower, or a riding mower doesn’t matter– routine care keeps your lawn mower running at peak efficiency all season long.

A few simple upkeep tasks greatly affect how your mower performs. These include changing the oil and sharpening the blades. Below, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to keep your mower in shape. We’ll also cover seasonal tips to help you get the most out of your lawn equipment.

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Essential Lawn Mower Maintenance Tasks

Lawn mower upkeep doesn’t have to be complicated. A few key maintenance tasks keep your mower running well, prevent breakdowns, and ensure a clean, even cut every time you mow. These routine tasks will keep your equipment in top shape. 

Regularly Change the Oil

Like a car, your lawn mower’s engine needs clean oil to function properly. Over time, old oil becomes dirty and causes engine wear, reducing your mower’s efficiency and lifespan. Regularly changing the oil keeps your mower running well and makes it last longer, too.

How to Change the Oil:

• Check the Manual: Different mowers require different types of oil.
• Run the Engine for a Few Minutes: This warms up the oil, making it easier to drain.
• Turn Off the Mower and Disconnect the Spark Plug: Safety first! These important steps prevent you from being injured.
• Drain the Old Oil: Place an oil pan beneath the mower, remove the drain plug, or tilt the mower if needed).
• Refill with Fresh Oil: Use the recommended oil type and fill to the proper level.

According to the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), regularly changing your mower’s oil can improve engine performance and longevity.

Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine function. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency.

• When to Clean It: Tap the filter against a hard surface to remove debris or rinse it with warm, soapy water (if it’s a foam filter) if it's slightly dirty. Let it dry completely before reinstalling.
• When to Replace It: It’s time for a new filter if the current one is torn, heavily clogged, or looks worn out. Most filters should be replaced around once per season.

Sharpening the Blades:

Dull mower blades tear grass rather than cutting it cleanly. This leaves your lawn looking ragged and unhealthy. Keeping your blades sharp ensures a nice, even cut and promotes better lawn health.

Signs Your Mower Blades Need Sharpening:

• Grass looks torn or frayed after mowing
• Uneven patches in your lawn
• You have to go over the same area multiple times

How to Sharpen Mower Blades Safely:

• Disconnect the Spark Plug: Prevents accidental starts.
• Remove the Blade: Use a socket wrench to remove the bolt securing it. You will need a blade holder or a thick glove to hold the blade so it doesn’t spin.
• Sharpen the Blade: Use a file or grinder, maintaining the blade’s original angle.‍
• Reinstall the Blade: Tighten it securely and ensure it’s balanced.

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Checking and Replacing the Spark Plug

A worn-out plug makes starting your mower difficult and reduces fuel efficiency. Luckily, replacing it is quick and inexpensive.

How to Replace a Spark Plug:

• Disconnect the spark plug wire.
• Use a spark plug wrench to remove the old plug.
• Install the new plug and tighten it securely. 
• Ensure that the gap is correct on the spark plug. Even pre-set gaps can get bumped and misaligned. 
• Reconnect the spark plug wire.

Most mowers benefit from a new spark plug once a year for optimal performance.

Seasonal Lawn Mower Upkeep Tips

Your lawn mower is just like any other outdoor equipment. It needs different types of care depending on the season. Performing regular lawn equipment maintenance in the spring and fall ensures your mower is ready when you need it and protected when you don’t. 

Spring Tune-Up: Getting Ready for Mowing Season

Take some time to give your lawn mower a thorough checkup before your first mow of the year. Simple maintenance steps will ensure it starts easily and runs efficiently all season.

• Check the oil and replace it if needed.
• Clean or replace the air filter to improve airflow.
• Inspect the spark plug and replace it if it looks worn.
• Sharpen the mower blades for a clean, even cut.
• Fill the gas tank with fresh fuel. Old gas causes starting issues.

Starting the season with a well-maintained mower prevents mid-season breakdowns and ensures your lawn looks its best from the first cut to the last.

Fall Storage: How to Winterize Your Mower

Proper storage is key to keeping your mower in good condition for next year when mowing season ends. Cold temperatures and leftover fuel can cause engine issues if not addressed before winter.

• Drain or Stabilize the Fuel: Gas that is not stabilized can go bad and cause issues the next season. In addition, gas with ethanol in it can deteriorate lines and tanks along with separating. It is always recommended to drain or run the gas out of your unit. Stabilize only if you are using non-ethanol gas. 
• Clean the Mower Deck: Remove any grass clippings and debris to prevent rust.
• Disconnect the Battery (For Riding Mowers): Store it in a cool, dry place.
• Store Your Mower in a Dry Location: A shed or garage helps protect your mower from the elements.

Taking these steps before winter ensures your mower is ready as soon as spring rolls around. 

Shop Lawn Mower Parts and Accessories at Fleet Farm 

Regular lawn maintenance is the best way to keep your mower running well and extend its lifespan. Performing routine upkeep lets you avoid costly repairs and enjoy a healthier, better-looking lawn. This includes changing the oil, sharpening the blade, and replacing the air filter.

Fleet Farm has everything you need when it’s time to stock up on maintenance supplies. You'll find high-quality parts for all mower types, from lawn mower oil and spark plugs to replacement blades and air filters. This includes walk-behind mowers, riding mowers, and zero-turn mowers.

Browse our selection of lawn mowers and lawn equipment accessories online or visit your local  Fleet Farm store for expert advice and the best tools. 

Common Lawn Maintenance Questions (FAQs)

Lawn mower maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s normal to have questions about the best way to care for your equipment. Here are answers to some of the most common maintenance concerns.

What maintenance should you do on a lawn mower?

 Routine maintenance includes changing the oil, cleaning or replacing the air filter, sharpening the blades, and checking the spark plug. Seasonal upkeep keeps your mower in top condition. This includes a spring tune-up and winter storage preparation.

Is it okay to hose down a lawn mower?

It may be tempting to rinse off grass clippings with a hose. However, excessive water exposure leads to rust and electrical issues. Instead, use a brush or compressed air to remove debris from the mower deck and engine area. If you must use water, wipe the mower dry afterward.

How often should you service a lawn mower?

Most mowers benefit from a full tune-up once a year, preferably in spring. However, tasks like checking the oil, cleaning the air filter, and sharpening the blades should be done more frequently. This is typically done after every 25 hours of use.

Is it okay to leave gas in the lawn mower?

Leaving untreated fuel in your mower over the winter causes clogs and starting issues in the spring. Either drain the gas tank or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent it from breaking down if you’re storing your mower for an extended period.

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