4 Signs It's Time for a New Lawn Mower

It’s not officially the start of spring until you can hear the buzz of lawn mowers outside, and there are few things more calming than the smell of freshly cut grass in the air.

So it’s understandable to be upset when you fire up your own mower and start to notice that something is not right. And if your mower is struggling to get the job done, you may be wondering if the time has come for you to invest in a new machine.

But when is it best to replace rather than repair? There are warning signs to watch out for that can help you know when buying a new mower would be smarter than repairing the old one.

Warning Signs You May Need a New Lawn Mower

No lawn mower is invincible. Wear and tear affects them all, and that wear and tear manifests in different ways and to different degrees. Here are four common signs that your mower is experiencing serious issues that might necessitate purchasing a replacement.

Mower is Experiencing Engine Problems

Unusual noises are never a good sign, especially when they’re coming from the engine of your mower. Many operators will report hearing a knocking sound, which can often be attributed to a bent crankshaft or a broken rod. All it takes is for the lower blade of your mower to strike a rock or a tree stump for there to be damage to your crankshaft. You may also notice that the engine is vibrating more than normal, which is yet another indication of problems with a rod or crankshaft.

The engine is the worst possible place to be experiencing issues with your mower. If the engine can’t be repaired, replacing is not cheap. It might be more cost-effective to buy a new mower.

Smoke Coming Out of the Exhaust

Where there is smoke, there is a problem. Smoke is the universal sign that something is very wrong. If that smoke is coming from your mower’s exhaust, it could be a number of problems. It could be that the head gasket needs to be repaired, which is not always an expensive repair. But if your rings are worn out, your engine is probably using too much gas and scoring your cylinder. If the scoring is severe enough, you could be looking at a new engine.

Trouble with the Transmission

The transmission is a critical component of your mower’s drive system. Today’s transmissions are generally trouble-free and often maintenance-free, but the normal wear and tear from regular use still takes a toll, especially if you are mowing steep hills or in a very dusty environment. Grinding gears, starting and stopping during operation, and the wheels not rotating with the pulley are common signs that your mower’s transmission is breaking down.

Transmissions are another high-priced repair. Whether you’re replacing or repairing an engine or a transmission, it’s important to consider the age of your machine. Is it worth pouring more money into a well-worn mower, as opposed to investing in a new one? Your equipment is an investment, so it’s necessary to weigh both the short-term and long-term benefits of your options.

Too Much Oil

How much oil are you putting into your mower? Take note of how much oil you are normally having to use, because it’ll be an immediate red flag when you start to notice the amount increasing. The frequency with which you have to add oil is another warning sign. If you’re having to add oil after each mow, it could be an indicator that your mower is on its last legs.

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