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Troubleshooting Common Self-propelled Lawn Mower Problems





As we have done lots of depth research and testing before on self-propelled lawn mowers, you will find our top recommend mowers below, one from each type that offers the best cutting performance, excellent quality and the best value for money.

  1. Husqvarna 961450023 HU700H Honda 160cc 3-in-1 Rear Wheel Drive Hi-Wheel Mower in 22-Inch Deck
  2. Snapper 12AVB2A2707 21″ Self Propelled Gas Powered Mower with Side Discharge, Mulching, Rear Bag and Rear High Wheel, Dual-lever Height Adjustment with 6 Cutting Positions
  3. GreenWorks Pro GLM801600 80V 21-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower, Battery and Charger Not Included
  4. EGO Power+ 20-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Lawn Mower – 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Kit
  5. Craftsman 37430 21 Inch 140cc Briggs and Stratton Gas Powered 3-in-1 Push Lawn Mower
  6. Earthwise 60617 17-Inch 24-Volt Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
  7. GreenWorks Pro MO80L510 80V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower, 5Ah Battery and Charger Included
  8. Husqvarna 961430130 LC221RH Propelled Lawn Mower, 21-In
  9. Husqvarna 7021P 21-Inch 160cc Honda GCV160 Gas Powered 3-N-1 Push Lawn Mower With High Rear Wheels (CARB Compliant)
  10. Lawn Mower Wheels Murray 21″ Low with 450 Series Engine, Red
  11. Troy-Bilt TB450 XP 21″ 175cc 3-in-1 4×4 Self-Propelled Mower
  12. Sun Joe MJ401C 14-Inch 28-Volt Cordless Lawn Mower
  13. EGO 21″ 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Self Propelled Lawn Mower (Battery and Charger Not Included)
  14. BLACK+DECKER EM1500 15-Inch Corded Mower with Edge Max, 10-Amp
  15. GreenWorks 25022 12 Amp Corded 20-Inch Lawn Mower
  16. WORX WG771 56V Lithium-Ion 3-in-1 Cordless Mower with Locking Caster Wheels, 19-Inch, (2) Batteries and Charger Included
  17. Honda 21”3-in-1 Self Propelled Self Charging Electric Start Lawn Mower
  18. Snapper P2185020 / 7800980 HI VAC 190cc 3-N-1 Rear Wheel Drive Variable Speed Self Propelled Lawn Mower with 21-Inch Deck and ReadyStart System and 7 Position Height-of-Cut
  19. Troy-Bilt TB370 163cc 21-inch In Step RWD Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
  20. ARIENS COMPANY 911175 21″ VS RWD Lawn Mower
  21. Yard Machines 159cc 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
  22. Poulan Pro 961420127 PR625Y22RHP Briggs 625ex Side Discharge/Mulch/Bag 3-in-1 Hi-Wheel Front Wheel Self Propelled Mower in 22-Inch Deck
  23. Lawn-Boy 17732 21-Inch 149cc Kohler XTX OHV, 3-in-1 Discharge Rear Wheel Drive Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
  24. Troy-Bilt TB220 159cc 21-inch FWD Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Self-propelled lawn mowers’ advanced features and ease of use make them a very desirable lawn care tool. However, when your self-propelled mower stops working as designed, it is not always necessary to scrap this helpful tool or seek help from a professional for repairs.

By checking a few of the most common problems that could occur, you may be able to diagnose and correct the issue yourself and soon be back cutting your lawn effortlessly.

Trouble on Slopes

One of the simplest fixes when experiencing running issues on a slope is to check the gas tank. The placement of the gas tank allows gas to fluctuate forward or backward when working on a slope. This can cause the mower to slow, sputter, or stop unexpectedly just because the motor is not getting the gas it needs since the fuel has shifted. Simply keep your tank topped off when working on slopes to prevent this issue.

Self-propel Cable

The most common malfunction with these lawn mowers occurs when the self-propel cable breaks or wears out. This cable runs from the handle of the mower to the transmission; the location and high use of this cable make it susceptible to breaking, wearing, or stretching, which can interfere with the mower’s functionality.

Simply locate the hook of this cable, which will be underneath or within the handle, and trace the line all the way down to the end hook that connects it to the transmission. If there is any visible wear or breaks, the cable needs to be replaced. You can find self-propel cables at most hardware stores and changing out the old one requires little more than unhooking it and hooking in the new one.

Not Running or Running Poorly

When the mower itself is having issues, one of the most common causes is simply grass buildup. When mowing the lawn, the motor and transmission can accumulate grass clippings, dirt, and debris. These clog the internal parts and cause the mower to perform poorly or not start at all. The first step in diagnosing this issue is to remove the casing over the transmission and clean any debris or dirt found within.

If the issue is not debris in the motor, you can also check the spark plug. Start by making sure the spark plug is not dirty. Try wiping it clean; if the dirt doesn’t come off, then it needs to be replaced. Make sure the spark plug is tightly secured after cleaning and putting it back in or when installing a new one.

Loss of Speed

If you experience loss of speed while mowing, you should check the drive belt housed within the motor casing. Often, the drive belt can become damaged, loose, or detached, causing speed loss. If any damage is visible on the drive belt, it should be changed. If the drive belt is unattached from the mower, check for damage and then reattach it if none is found.


Photo Gallery of the Troubleshooting Common Self-propelled Lawn Mower Problems