Small Engine Quick Check
Mower Won't Start? 4 Checks Before You Call
Walk through four quick checks one at a time. You might fix it yourself — and if not, you'll know what to tell Austin.
Has the gas been sitting in it for more than about a month?
The four checks
Here are the same checks in plain text, in case you'd rather read straight through.
- 1
Check the fuel
Has the gas been sitting in it for more than about a month?
Yes: Old fuel is the most common cause. Drain it and refill with fresh fuel. No: Good — the fuel is likely fresh. Move on to the next check.
- 2
Check the spark plug
Is the spark plug wire firmly attached, and is the plug clean and dry?
Yes: The spark plug looks good. Move on to the next check. No: Reattach the wire or replace a fouled plug.
- 3
Check the air filter
Is the air filter clean?
Yes: The air filter is fine. Move on to the next check. No: Clean or replace the air filter.
- 4
Check the battery and safety switches
Riding mower: is the battery charged, the brake pressed and the blades disengaged?
Yes: Everything is set as it should be. Move on to the next check. No: Charge the battery and check the safety switches.
Safety note: always disconnect the spark plug wire before working near the blade.
These are general checks, not a diagnosis.
Still stuck? Call Austin or send a request.
Where Austin works
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