What's The Average Lifespan Of A Gas Lawn Mower?

The gas versus electric lawn mower debate may never be fully settled, but for large lawns and heavy mowing jobs, gas-powered mowers still reign supreme. Gas lawn mowers also generally last longer than electric mowers, even if they require more maintenance. However, as powerful as they can be, gas lawn mowers don't last forever. Sooner or later, it'll be time to buy a new one. It's important to factor that in before you buy so you can maximize your investment.

How long your gas mower will run depends on its design, how much you use it, and how well you maintain it. Generally, you can expect the best walk-behind lawn mowers to last for 10 years or more before showing signs of needing replacement. Riding mowers have a shorter lifespan, running for around six to 10 years. This depends on how many hours you mow per week, though, and assumes consistent maintenance. For greater longevity, it's also important to buy the best type of lawnmower for your yard, as using the wrong one for your yard size or terrain can cause excess wear and tear and shorten its life.

Like any gas-powered lawn equipment, your gas mower requires regular upkeep to keep it running smoothly for as long as possible. It's best to change a gas-powered mower's oil after every 50 hours of use. A fresh oil change at the end of the mowing season is also a good idea. Change the spark plug and air filter every year, as well. Finally, gas mowers require proper storage. You can winterize your gas-powered mower by adding a stabilizer to the fuel tank and keeping it covered to prevent it from getting wet while it's stored for months.

If your mower has trouble starting, makes excessive noise, vibrates aggressively, leaks oil, or produces smoke while running, DIY maintenance might not be sufficient. It may need professional servicing. Poor cutting performance that isn't fixed by sharpening your mower blades is another sign that your mower is old and might need a tune-up. Furthermore, the metal and plastic parts of your mower can accumulate rust and cracks, especially if you frequently use it in wet grass or tough terrain.

This kind of damage isn't just cosmetic. Years of wear and tear will reduce the operability (and repairability) of your mower. Unfortunately, lawn mowers aren't built to run for decades. If your gas mower is more than 10 years old and is showing its age, it might be time to replace it.