Repair or Replace Your Lawnmower? Which Option is Best for You

Choosing to Repair or Replace Your Lawn Mower: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing to repair or replace your lawnmower requires some consideration

Deciding whether to repair or replace your lawn mower can be tough. This choice requires some market research, a self-assessment of your repair skills, and a budget analysis. Ask yourself questions like:

• Do I want to maintain and potentially repair my own lawn equipment, or do I want to pay a technician for parts and labour?

• What is the current value of my lawn mower?

• How much will a replacement lawn mower cost if I decide to buy new?

  
  

These questions are crucial before you choose the best solution for your situation. If you're keen on saving time, money, and avoiding the hassle of an unexpected breakdown, while also making a cost-effective choice, keep reading to determine whether you should repair or replace your lawn mower!

How Interested/Capable Am I Maintaining My Own Lawn Mower?

We start with this question because your answer will shape your path forward. At Maverick Mowers, we believe everyone can learn to maintain their lawn mower. However, if you’re not interested in learning this invaluable skill, your options become limited.

The money saved and the satisfaction of maintaining your own equipment are significant. But if you’re not inclined to learn basic lawn mower preventive maintenance, you may find yourself paying for repairs or repeatedly buying used options. Alternatively, you might have to buy a brand new model. All these outcomes can lead to unnecessary costs.

How Much Is My Lawn Mower Worth?

A simple walk-behind push mower that’s 10-20 years old can be valued at around $100, assuming it’s rust-free and running. This value can increase slightly with added features like self-propelled transmissions, bagging attachments, or mulching capabilities. If you have a new, top-of-the-line unit, expect a price tag ranging from 5 to 15 times this number.

Knowing these values can help you decide whether to repair or replace your lawn mower. Of course, these general values can fluctuate based on supply and demand in your area, but they typically remain consistent.

For Those of You Confident, Capable, and Eager to Tackle Lawn Mower Repair!

If you’re a seasoned lawn mower maintainer who knows the ins and outs of keeping your yard pristine, buying a new or relatively new mower and maintaining it yourself could be the best option. Initially paying a higher price makes sense if your experience helps you avoid the numerous issues that neglecting your lawn mower can cause.

Alternatively, you might find a well-maintained but older, more affordable used lawn mower and perform routine maintenance. The ability to maintain your lawn mower independently gives you greater flexibility.

Your specific situation will be unique. Your yard's size and needs, as well as your budget for a lawn mower, will vary. However, the ability to repair and maintain your own equipment grants you greater flexibility regardless.

For Those of You Disinterested In Maintaining Your Lawn Mower

Unfortunately, despite the clear benefits of learning lawn mower repair, if you’re unable or simply not interested, the reality is that having a reliable lawn mower function for even a single cutting season without minimal maintenance is highly unlikely.

Consider Enrolling In Our Online Lawn Mower Maintenance Course for Beginners!

If you’re interested in learning lawn mower repair but haven’t had the chance, we offer a completely free online course. This course will teach you the basics of lawn mower maintenance and repair. All you need to enroll is an email. Click this link to join: Online Program.

The Ugly Truth About Internal Engine Problems: Repair vs. Replace

Internal engine problems in a simple walk-behind lawn mower usually warrant an engine replacement rather than a rebuild. A rebuild requires disassembly, special machining of various engine parts, and careful reassembly. The cost of these procedures often exceeds the cost of a new lawn mower.

This is why many small engine repair shops suggest a replacement engine or an entirely new lawn mower in these scenarios. Signs of internal issues can include violent shaking and engine smoking. Keep in mind that these symptoms may not always indicate a need for replacement!

Easily Fixable? How to Tell?

If your lawn mower won’t start but was running well before, it’s likely due to neglect in some area. An issue has developed that prevents it from starting. These problems usually stem from improper fuel management, resulting in a dirty fuel delivery system.

While other issues can contribute, with some curiosity, you can pinpoint the cause and remedy it. You can also prevent these problems from recurring. Don’t write off a fixable lawn mower! Check out our simple-to-follow, complete lawn mower guide found here: The Complete Lawn Mower Maintenance Guide.

The Cost of Maintenance

Maintaining your lawn mower requires a minimal investment in hand tools. Seasonally, you’ll need to invest in replaceable parts like air filters, engine oil, cutting blades, and spark plugs. Sensible fuel management and strategic cleaning are also essential to keep your lawn mower running for many seasons.

The cost of a well-maintained lawn mower is far less than the accumulated costs of untimely breakdowns, repair bills, mower replacements, and an unkempt lawn.

Bottom Line

Being informed, capable, and interested in your lawn mower's maintenance will save you money in the long run. It also allows you greater flexibility in deciding whether to buy used or new. If you face the dilemma of choosing to repair or replace your lawn mower, you are now better equipped to make the best decision.