To get your lawn mower ready for spring after months of storage, you’ll need to clean it, replace key parts like the air filter and spark plug, and change the engine oil. Seasonal maintenance isn’t just about getting that first mow right, it prevents costly repairs, lowers emissions, and extends the life of your mower. Whether you own a Toro, Craftsman, or Honda, a few simple steps before the first cut will ensure smooth performance and that signature freshly-cut grass smell that marks the true start of spring. This guide explains what to check, replace, and clean before firing up your mower for the season.
Seasonal Lawn Mower Tips
After dusting off any dirt, grass and spider webs from your lawn mower, here are the next steps you should take for getting your lawn mower ready.
Air Filters:
The air filter prevents dust and grass from getting into the engine. If it’s a paper filter, replacement is needed. Foam pre-filters can be washed in soapy water. Allow the filter to air dry thoroughly and reinstall. If you only have a foam filter, wash in soapy water, allow it to air dry completely, saturate with engine oil, wring out and reinstall into the mower.
Spark Plug:
In general, spark plugs should be replaced once per year so now’s a good time. You can find the part number located on the spark plug so it will be easy to find the correct replacement.
Engine Oil:
Drain the old oil and replace with fresh engine oil, following your lawn mower manufacturer’s recommendation. Frequency of this step over the season will vary depending on your usage.
Happy mowing! Happy spring!
For a lawnmower maintenance crash course/repair guide with loads of helpful tips, check our all-things-lawn-mower web page here.
Tips of the Month
Want a greener lawn? Sharp mower blades can help! Dull mower blades tear, rather than cut, and the result is a lawn with a common white/yellow hue at the surface. Sharp blades provide a proper cut for a more vibrant green appearance. Blades are inexpensive to replace or sharpen so it’s a smart and easy way to create a greener lawn.