There’s nothing quite like the frustration of a lawn mower that starts with a roar, only to sputter and die moments later. You’re ready to tackle the yard, but your equipment betrays you, leaving you stranded with a half-mowed lawn and a growing sense of annoyance. Don’t worry, this common lawn mower problem often has a simple solution. This article will guide you through the most common causes of a lawn mower that starts and dies, offering step-by-step troubleshooting tips and potential fixes.
In a nutshell, a lawn mower that starts then dies usually points to a fuel-related issue, a problem with the spark system, or a clogged air filter. Let’s dive into the details and get your mower back in action!
Fuel System Troubles: The Most Likely Culprit
The fuel system is the most common source of a lawn mower starting then dying. Here’s a breakdown of the key suspects and how to diagnose them:
1. Old or Bad Gas: The Forgotten Enemy
Gas can go bad surprisingly quickly, especially if it’s been sitting in your mower for months. Old gas loses its volatility, making it difficult to ignite and causing your engine to sputter and die.
How to fix it:
- Drain the old gas: This is the easiest solution. Use a siphon pump or a gas can with a built-in spout to carefully remove the old gas from your mower’s tank.
- Replace with fresh gas: Always use fresh, high-octane gasoline for your lawn mower. Avoid using gasohol (gas mixed with ethanol) as it can damage your fuel system over time.
2. Clogged Fuel Line: The Silent Sabotage
A clogged fuel line can prevent the fuel from reaching the carburetor, causing your mower to start and then die as the fuel supply dwindles.
How to check and clean it:
- Inspect the fuel line: Look for any kinks, cracks, or blockages in the fuel line. If you find any issues, replace the fuel line.
- Clean the fuel filter: The fuel filter traps debris and prevents it from entering the carburetor. Remove the filter and clean it with carburetor cleaner or replace it if it’s heavily clogged.
3. Carburetor Issues: The Engine’s Heart
The carburetor mixes air and fuel for combustion. A dirty or faulty carburetor can prevent proper fuel flow and lead to a starting-then-dying problem.
Troubleshooting the carburetor:
- Clean the carburetor: This is often the most effective solution. Use a carburetor cleaning kit and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Be cautious when working with flammable substances.
- Rebuild or replace the carburetor: If the carburetor is severely damaged or beyond cleaning, rebuilding or replacing it may be necessary.
Spark System Malfunctions: Igniting the Combustion
While fuel issues are most common, problems in the spark system can also cause your lawn mower to die.
1. Worn Spark Plug: A Critical Component
The spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture, and a worn or fouled spark plug can prevent proper combustion.
How to diagnose and fix it:
- Inspect the spark plug: Remove the spark plug and look for signs of wear, such as cracks, erosion, or a black sooty deposit.
- Test the spark plug: Use a spark plug tester to ensure it’s producing a strong spark.
- Replace the spark plug: If the spark plug is worn or fouled, replace it with a new one of the correct type for your lawn mower.
2. Faulty Ignition Coil: A Spark’s Source
The ignition coil produces the high-voltage spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture. A damaged or malfunctioning coil can prevent the spark from reaching the spark plug.
How to check it:
- Visually inspect the coil: Look for any signs of damage, cracks, or corrosion.
- Test the coil: Use a multimeter to check the resistance of the coil. Consult your owner’s manual or a repair guide for specific resistance values.
- Replace the coil: If the coil is damaged, replace it with a new one.
3. Loose or Corroded Connections: The Silent Culprits
Loose or corroded connections in the wiring can disrupt the flow of electricity, preventing the spark plug from receiving a spark.
How to check and fix it:
- Inspect the wiring: Examine all wires connecting to the spark plug, ignition coil, and other components for looseness, breaks, or corrosion.
- Tighten or repair connections: Tighten any loose connections and clean or replace any corroded wires or terminals.
Air Intake Obstructions: Breathing Trouble
While less common than fuel or spark issues, a clogged air filter can also cause your mower to start and then die.
1. Clogged Air Filter: Restricting Oxygen Flow
The air filter prevents dust and debris from entering the engine, but a clogged filter can restrict airflow and cause the engine to stall.
How to fix it:
- Clean or replace the air filter: Remove the air filter and clean it with compressed air or replace it with a new one if it’s heavily soiled.
Other Potential Causes: Beyond the Basics
While the above are the most common causes, several other factors can contribute to your lawn mower starting then dying:
- Low Engine Oil: Insufficient oil can cause engine damage and lead to problems with starting and running.
- Fuel Valve Issues: A faulty fuel valve may prevent fuel from flowing to the carburetor.
- Incorrect Choke Setting: The choke enriches the fuel-air mixture for easier starting but should be gradually released as the engine warms up.
- Battery Problems: A weak battery can prevent the starter from turning over the engine.
Don’t forget to consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting advice and repair instructions.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all the above troubleshooting steps and your lawn mower still starts then dies, it’s time to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can diagnose and fix more complex issues, such as:
- Engine damage: If the engine is damaged, you may need to have it repaired or replaced.
- Electrical problems: More advanced electrical issues may require specialized testing and repair.
Preventative Maintenance: Keeping Your Mower Running Smoothly
Regular maintenance can help prevent your lawn mower from starting then dying. Here are some essential steps:
- Change the oil regularly: Follow the oil change intervals recommended in your owner’s manual.
- Clean the air filter: Inspect and clean the air filter every few mowings, or more frequently if you mow in dusty conditions.
- Store your mower properly: When not in use, drain the fuel tank to prevent the gas from going bad. Store your mower in a dry, clean area.
Conclusion: A Mower that Works is a Happy Mower
By following the troubleshooting steps and preventative maintenance tips outlined in this article, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly and avoid the frustration of a starting-then-dying problem. Remember, a well-maintained mower will provide you with years of reliable service and make your lawn care chores much more enjoyable.
FAQ
Why does my lawnmower start but then die right away?
This is a common issue with lawnmowers, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common culprit is a lack of fuel. If your lawnmower hasn’t been used in a while, the fuel in the tank may have gone bad. You can try starting the lawnmower with fresh fuel, or you can try cleaning the carburetor. Another possibility is a clogged air filter. If the air filter is dirty, it will restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to die. Replace the air filter with a new one.
What should I do if my lawnmower starts but dies when I release the choke?
This is a sign that your lawnmower isn’t getting enough fuel when it’s running. It could be a problem with the fuel line, the fuel filter, or the carburetor. If you’re comfortable working on your lawnmower, you can try cleaning the carburetor. You may need to replace the fuel line or fuel filter if they are damaged. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, take it to a repair shop.
My lawnmower starts but dies when I try to mow. What could be wrong?
There are a few possibilities. The first is that your lawnmower isn’t getting enough air. This could be due to a clogged air filter, or a problem with the air intake system. Check the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary. You should also inspect the air intake system to make sure there are no blockages. If the air filter and air intake system are clear, the problem could be with the spark plug. A fouled spark plug can prevent the engine from running properly. Inspect the spark plug and replace it if necessary.
My lawnmower starts but dies after a few minutes. What’s going on?
This could be a sign of a fuel delivery problem or a problem with the ignition system. If the fuel lines or fuel filter are clogged, they can restrict fuel flow to the engine. You can try cleaning the fuel lines and fuel filter. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the fuel lines or fuel filter. If the problem is with the ignition system, it could be a faulty spark plug, a damaged ignition coil, or a problem with the wiring.
Why is my lawnmower starting and then dying when it’s hot?
This is often a sign of a problem with the ignition system. When the engine gets hot, the ignition coil can overheat and fail. If the ignition coil is overheating, you’ll need to replace it. Another possibility is a problem with the spark plug. If the spark plug is worn or fouled, it can cause the engine to overheat and die. Replace the spark plug if it is worn or fouled.
My lawnmower starts and then dies immediately. I hear a clicking sound. What’s going on?
This is a common symptom of a faulty starter motor. The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over, and if it’s not working properly, it won’t be able to get the engine started. You will need to replace the starter motor.
I’ve tried everything and my lawnmower still starts and dies. What should I do?
If you’ve tried all of the above troubleshooting steps and your lawnmower still won’t start, it’s best to take it to a qualified lawnmower repair shop. There could be a more serious problem with the engine that you’re not equipped to fix yourself.