There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from a freshly mowed lawn. The crisp lines, the uniform height, the clean scent of cut grass—it’s a small accomplishment that makes your entire property look cared for. But before you can enjoy that feeling, you need to conquer the first, and sometimes most frustrating, step: getting the mower started. Whether it’s been sitting in the shed all winter or it’s your first time tackling the task, knowing the correct procedure is key.
This guide is designed to take the guesswork and the struggle out of the process. We’ll walk you through the essential steps for both push and riding mowers, demystify the controls, and help you troubleshoot common problems. By the end of this article on How to Start a Lawn Mower: Everything You Need to Know (2025), you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to start your mower confidently and get on with creating that perfect lawn.
Getting Ready: Your Pre-Start Checklist
Before you even think about pulling the starter cord, a little preparation goes a long way. Skipping these steps is a common reason a mower refuses to start, so it’s always best to begin here.
First, check the fuel. Is there gas in the tank? If your mower has been in storage for a while, old gas is often the culprit. Gasoline can degrade in as little as 30 days, forming varnish and gum that clogs the carburetor. For a mower that’s been sitting, it’s a good idea to drain the old fuel and add fresh gasoline. If you have a 4-stroke engine, also check the oil level using the dipstick. Too little oil can cause serious engine damage, and many modern mowers have a safety sensor that will prevent starting if the oil is low.
Next, take a quick look at the air filter. A dirty, clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, making it hard to start. Give it a light tap to dislodge debris or replace it if it’s very dirty. Finally, do a visual inspection of the mower deck and the blade. Make sure the spark plug wire is securely attached, and clear the deck of any caked-on grass clippings.
How to Start a Lawn Mower: Everything You Need to Know (2025)
Now for the main event. The exact steps can vary slightly depending on whether you have a push mower or a riding mower, but the fundamental principles are the same. Let’s break it down.
Starting a Push Mower
For a standard push mower with a recoil starter, follow these steps:
- Find a Flat Surface: Position the mower on a level area of your lawn.
- Prime the Engine (if equipped): Locate the primer bulb—it’s usually a small, soft rubber button. Press it 2-3 times to draw fuel into the carburetor. Don’t over-prime, as this can flood the engine.
- Set the Choke (if equipped): If the engine is cold, move the choke lever to the “Choke” or “Start” position. This enriches the fuel mixture for a cold start. If the engine is warm from recent use, you may not need the choke.
- Engage the Safety Features: This is crucial. On most mowers, you must hold down a lever on the handlebar. This is a deadman switch that stops the blade when you let go. If you don’t engage this, the mower won’t start.
- Pull the Starter Cord: Stand firmly, grip the handle, and pull the cord briskly and smoothly. Don’t yank it all the way out violently. If the engine doesn’t start after a few pulls, wait a minute and try again.
- Adjust the Choke: Once the engine starts and begins to warm up, gradually move the choke lever to the “Run” position.
Starting a Riding Lawn Mower
Starting a riding mower involves a similar process but from the driver’s seat.
- Prepare for Ignition: Sit firmly in the seat. Make sure the parking brake is engaged. For most models, you must set the brake for the mower to start.
- Set the Controls: Locate the gear shift and ensure it’s in “Neutral” or “Park.” Set the blade engagement lever (PTO) to the “Off” position. You never want the blades spinning on startup.
- Activate the Choke and Throttle: If the engine is cold, move the throttle lever to the “Choke” position, which is usually the highest setting. For a warm engine, set it to half-throttle.
- Turn the Key: Insert the key and turn it to the “Start” position. Hold it there until the engine cranks and starts, then release the key so it springs back to the “On” position.
When Your Mower Won’t Start: Simple Troubleshooting
You’ve gone through the steps, but the mower just sputters or doesn’t make a sound. Don’t worry—here are the most common issues to check.
- It Won’t Crank at All: This is often an electrical or safety issue. Check that the spark plug wire is connected. On a riding mower, ensure you are fully in the seat, the parking brake is set, and the blades are disengaged. A dead battery is also a common cause for riding mowers.
- It Cranks But Won’t Start: This usually points to a fuel or spark issue. Your first suspects are old gas, an empty tank, or a clogged fuel line. Next, check the air filter and the spark plug. A dirty or fouled spark plug is a very frequent reason for a no-start condition. Removing it, cleaning off any debris, or replacing it can often solve the problem immediately.
- The Engine Starts Then Dies: If the mower starts but can’t stay running, check the choke. You may have left it on, flooding the engine. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes and try again without the choke. This could also indicate a clogged carburetor jet from old fuel.
Keeping Your Mower Ready for Action
A little routine care can prevent most starting problems before they begin. At the start of each mowing season, consider changing the oil, replacing the air filter, and installing a new spark plug. This annual refresh is one of the best things you can do for your mower’s health and reliability. Always use fresh fuel, and if you plan to store your mower for the winter, either drain the gas completely or use a fuel stabilizer.
Starting your lawn mower doesn’t have to be a battle of wills. By following a consistent pre-start routine, understanding your specific mower’s controls, and knowing a few basic troubleshooting tips, you can eliminate the frustration and get straight to the rewarding part—enjoying a beautifully manicured lawn.