How to Troubleshoot Your Lawn Mower Not Starting

Your mower should start within three pulls of the starter rope (unless equipped with a Quick Start engine). Follow step-by-step instruction to determine why your mower won't start: checking fuel levels, spark plug, carburetor and compression. Follow along this DIY video to troubleshoot and learn when it's best to service your mower.
Introduction: 0:00 - 0:15
Attempt to start lawn mower: 0:15 - 0:30
Step 1: Check for gas in tank: 0:30 - 0:52
Step 2: Check spark plug: 0:52 - 2:10
Clogged carburetor: 2:10 - 2:53
Fresh treated fuel: 2:53 - 3:34
Step 3: Check ignition system: 3:34 - 4:25
Step 4: Check engine compression: 4:25 - 4:58
Step 5: Replace Spark Plug: 4:25 - 5:54
Attempt start: 5:54 - 6:01
Conclusion: 6:01 - 6:32
First step, check the fuel tank to make sure there is enough fuel to operate your lawn mower. You should see fuel slosh around. Second step, check the spark plug. A wet plug means there’s fuel going through the fuel system and there may be an issue with the ignition. A dry plug means there may be an issue with the fuel system. A common issue is a clogged carburetor from stale gas. Using a fuel stabilizer keeps fuel fresh and the carburetor from gumming and varnishing. Third step, check the ignition system with a spark tester. Step four, replace the spark plug and reconnect the spark plug wire. If your lawn mower still doesn’t start you should consider taking it in for service. Briggs & Stratton has over 12,000 servicing dealers in our network. Visit our website to locate the nearest dealer to you.
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