As the weather warms up, plants are springing back to life. That means your grass is about to start growing again, and you’ll need to break out your lawn mower to keep it well-trimmed. Knowing how to troubleshoot common machine issues is important so that a minor malfunction doesn’t interrupt your lawn maintenance schedule. Below, learn about three common lawn mower problems and how to resolve them.

3 Common Lawn Mower Issues

1. Engine Malfunction  

This is particularly common after your lawn mower has been sitting in storage over the winter, and it can be caused by several factors. If your spark plugs are dirty or broken, your engine won’t ignite the fuel. If the mower is starting but sputtering out, it’s possible that your carburetor is clogged. This is likely if you left fuel in the mower over the winter, as it can thicken and create performance-inhibiting gunk.

2. Smoking

While a smoking engine might be intimidating, it doesn’t mean your engine is about to catch fire. Instead, it’s usually the mower burning off oil, which can happen because the oil chamber is overfilled or leaking. However, if the smoke is nearly white instead of a dark gray color, you should have your lawn mower inspected by a professional, as running the mower may constitute a fire hazard.

3. Uneven or Inadequate Cutting Power

If your mower is struggling to cut your glass cleanly, the problem may be caused by dull blades. Blades should be sharpened before each season and periodically throughout spring and summer. Not only does this make mowing easier, but it also creates a cleaner cut, reducing the chances of grass diseases. The mower may also struggle to cut wet or tall grass. If you’ve let your grass get several inches tall before your first mow of the spring, consider thinning it with a weed eater first to ensure your mower will cut the lawn evenly.

If your lawn mower needs repair or replacement before the lawn care season begins, visit Bryant’s Outdoor Equipment in Dothan, AL. For over 15 years, they’ve served the area with new lawn care equipment, ATVs, and comprehensive maintenance and repairs. To learn more about their stock, visit them online and call (334) 794-4419 to speak to a representative.