10 Spring Lawn Mower Maintenance Tips

January 24, 2025
Michelle Valdivia

Spring has finally sprung, and you know what that means: lawn care season is back in full swing! Remember this as the weather gets warmer, your lawn mower is your best friend. But before you roll it out of the garage and fire it up, let’s make sure it’s ready for action. Here are 10 essential spring lawn mower maintenance tips to keep your mower running smoothly all season long. Trust us, your lawn (and your neighbors) will thank you!

1. Dust Off the Owner’s Manual

Okay, we know reading the manual isn’t anyone’s idea of fun, but it’s the best place to start. It has all the specs and recommendations specific to your mower model. You don’t need to read it cover to cover, but skimming through it will be helpful. Need to know what kind of oil or spark plug your mower needs? It’s all in there. Bonus: You’ll feel like a lawn care pro when you can rattle off these details later.

2. Change the Oil

Old oil is like bad coffee – it’s not going to get the job done. Draining the old oil and replacing it with fresh, clean oil will help your mower’s engine run smoothly. Don’t forget to dispose of the old oil properly at a recycling center. Mother Earth will thank you!

3. Replace the Spark Plug

If your machine isn’t starting easily, your lawn mower’s spark plug might be the culprit. Swapping it out is quick, inexpensive, and makes a world of difference in performance. Plus, it’s one of those little fixes that feels oddly satisfying.

4. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

A clogged air filter is like trying to breathe through a straw. Give your mower’s engine a break by cleaning or replacing the air filter. A clean filter improves airflow and helps the engine run more efficiently. Think of it as your mower’s spring detox!

5. Sharpen the Blade

how to sharpen lawn mower blades — Lawn mower blade sharpening.

This is the most important lawn mower maintenance tip! Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it, leaving your lawn looking rough and stressed. Use a file or take the blade to a professional for sharpening. Pro tip: Always wear gloves when handling the blade. Safety first, people!

Home Depot (2023) in general, sharpen twice per season or after 25 hours of use to keep your blades in good shape. Also, sharpen the blades after hitting rocks. Stone can easily dent or nick the blades.

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6. Check the Fuel

If you left fuel sitting in the tank all winter, it’s probably gone stale. Old fuel can gunk up the engine, so drain it out and refill with fresh gasoline. If you want to avoid this issue next year, add a fuel stabilizer before storing your mower for the winter.

lawn mower maintenance tips — Take a look at your lawn mower’s tires.

7. Inspect the Tires

If your mower has tires, check them for proper inflation and any signs of wear. Uneven tire pressure can lead to an uneven cut, and nobody wants a patchy lawn. A quick tire check now can save you headaches later.

8. Tighten Nuts and Bolts

Vibrations from mowing can loosen nuts and bolts over time. Give your mower a once-over to ensure everything is secure. A tightened bolt now is better than a costly repair later. Read one of our other article for more spring lawn care tips.

9. Clean the Deck

Grass clippings, dirt, and debris can build up under your mower’s deck, affecting its performance. Use a scraper or hose to remove the gunk, but make sure to disconnect the spark plug first for safety. A clean deck equals a clean cut!

10. Test It Out

After giving your mower some much-needed TLC, take it for a test run. Fire it up and listen for any odd noises or rough running. If something seems off, you might need to dig a little deeper or consult a professional.

Ready, Set, Mow!

With these 10 spring lawn mower maintenance tips, you’re all set to tackle your lawn with confidence. Taking a little time to care for your mower now will save you from headaches (and costly repairs) later.

Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a smooth-running mower and a freshly cut lawn. Now get out there and make your yard the envy of the neighborhood!

Don’t Love Mowing? Call the Pros at Ryno Lawn Care!

Let’s face it—mowing the lawn isn’t everyone’s favorite chore. Between the time commitment, the heat, and the maintenance required to keep your mower in top shape, it can feel like more hassle than it’s worth. If you’d rather spend your weekends relaxing than pushing a mower around, why not leave it to the professionals?

At Ryno Lawn Care, we provide expert lawn mowing services to keep your lawn looking immaculate all season long. Our team ensures precise, timely cuts that promote healthy grass growth without you lifting a finger. Call us today and let Ryno Lawn Care handle the mowing while you enjoy your outdoor space stress-free!

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FAQ: Spring Lawn Mower Maintenance

Q: How often should I perform maintenance on my lawn mower?
A: Regular maintenance should be done at least once a year, ideally in early spring before the mowing season begins. However, basic checks like cleaning the deck and inspecting the blades can be done after each use.

Q: What type of oil should I use for my lawn mower?
A: Always refer to your lawn mower’s manual for the recommended oil type. Most four-stroke engines use SAE 30 or 10W-30 motor oil, while two-stroke engines require a specific gas-oil mixture.

Q: How do I know if my mower blades need sharpening?
A: If your mower leaves uneven cuts, tears the grass instead of slicing it, or requires multiple passes, it’s time to sharpen the blades. For best results, check the blades at the start of the season and after every 25 hours of use.

Q: Can I store my lawn mower with fuel in the tank over winter?
A: It’s best to avoid storing your mower with fuel in the tank as it can go stale and damage the engine. If you must, use a fuel stabilizer to prevent buildup.

Q: How often should I replace the air filter?
A: Replace the air filter annually or more often if you mow in dusty or dirty conditions. A clean filter ensures better airflow and engine performance.

Q: Why is my lawn mower smoking?
A: Smoke could indicate an oil spill, overfilled oil, or a clogged air filter. Check these components and consult a professional if the problem persists.

Q: How can I make my mower last longer?
A: Regular maintenance is key! Clean the deck, change the oil, sharpen the blades, replace filters, and store your mower in a dry, sheltered place to prevent rust and wear.

Q: Should I repair or replace my lawn mower?
A: If repair costs exceed half the price of a new mower or your current model is outdated, it might be time for an upgrade. Otherwise, simple repairs and maintenance should suffice.

References:

Home Depot. (2023, September 7). How to sharpen lawn mower blades. Home Depot. https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-sharpen-lawn-mower-blades/9ba683603be9fa5395fab904bc45dce

Michelle Valdivia

Hi! I am a mom of 2 girls and 2 dogs. I enjoy learning and writing about landscaping topics. In my free time, I like to exercise and read murder mysteries.