Mower Maintenance Checklist: Tips for a Successful Season

As the growing season kicks into high gear, it’s important to take some time and ensure your lawn mower is up to the task. Whether you’re using a John Deere riding mower or a walk-behind model, proper maintenance is an essential step in boosting the performance and longevity of your equipment and improving the health of your lawn.

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1. Start With a Clean Machine

Before diving into the mechanical checkpoints, clean your mower thoroughly.

Remove grass clippings and other debris from the mower deck and undercarriage.
Use a water hose or air compressor for any areas that are difficult to reach.
Be sure to disconnect the spark plug before cleaning under the deck.

John Deere Tip: Many John Deere mowers come with a deck washing port–simply connect a hose, lower the deck, and run the mower briefly.

2. Change the Oil

Fresh oil is one of the most important components of an engine’s health.

Drain old oil and replace it with manufacturer-recommended oil.
Inspect the oil filter and replace it if necessary.

John Deere Tip: Check out John Deere’s Home Maintenance Kits which include oil, filter, and spark plugs for your specific model. This simplifies the process while ensuring that you’re using proper parts.

3. Replace the Air Filter

A clogged air filter reduces fuel efficiency and puts unnecessary strain on your engine.

Remove the air filter and inspect it.
If it’s dirty or damaged, replace it before operating.

Tip: Review your owner’s manual for replacement schedule recommendations. Once per season is a good rule of thumb.

4. Inspect and Replace Spark Plugs

Worn and dirty spark plugs can make your mower run unevenly.

Remove the spark plug and check for corrosion.
Replace yearly or when showing signs of wear.

5. Sharpen or Replace Mower Blades

Sharp blades are the key to efficient cuts and a healthy lawn.

Remove the blade and sharpen with a file or bench grinder.
Check blades for cracks or bends. Replace if damaged.

Tip: Sharpen to maintain original blade angle. Be sure to sharpen each side evenly to maintain proper blade balance.

6. Check Tire Pressure and Condition

Uneven and under-inflated tires can lead to uneven mowing.

Use a tire gauge to ensure all tires are inflated to recommended pressure.
Inspect for signs of dry rot and other signs of wear.

7. Battery Maintenance

Clean battery terminals and inspect for any corrosion.
Test battery voltage. If it won’t maintain a charge, replace immediately.

8. Inspect Belts and Cables

Check belts for fraying, cracking, and stretching.

Replace any worn belts to prevent mid-season breakdowns.
Make sure all throttle and brake cables move freely with no signs of fraying.

9. Top Off or Replace Fuel

Fuel left in the tank over the off-season can degrade. If you’re pulling your mower out of storage:

Drain old fuel and replace with fresh gasoline.
Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to keep it fresh throughout the season.

10. Review All Safety Features

Safety comes first! Inspect your mower’s brake system. Ensure that all brakes are working properly. Double-check that your blade engagement system and kill switch function as desired.

Routine maintenance is the key to success. By following these simple steps, you can extend the life of your equipment and prevent unexpected breakdowns. For more tips and tricks to maintaining a pristine lawn, reach out to your local WADE, Inc.