Lawn mowers are essential equipment for maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn. However, like any machine, they are prone to problems. Here are 10 common lawn mower problems and how to fix them. 

1. Engine won't start 

If your lawn mower engine won't start, check the fuel level, spark plug, and air filter. Ensure the fuel valve is in the "on" position and that there is fuel in the tank. Replace the spark plug if it's dirty or damaged, and clean or replace the air filter. 

2. Engine runs rough 

If your lawn mower's engine runs rough, it may be due to dirty or clogged air filters, fuel filters, or spark plugs. Clean or replace these parts as needed. 

3. Lawn mower won't move 

If your lawn mower won't move, check the drive belt, transmission, and wheels. Tighten or replace the drive belt if it's loose or damaged. Check the transmission fluid level and add or replace the fluid as needed. If the wheels are worn or damaged, replace them. 

4. Lawn mower blades won't turn 

If the blades on your lawn mower won't turn, check the blade drive belt, blade brake, and clutch. Tighten or replace the blade drive belt if it's loose or damaged. Check the blade brake and clutch for damage or wear and replace them if necessary. 

5. Lawn mower cuts unevenly 

If your lawn mower is cutting unevenly, check the blade for damage or dullness. Sharpen or replace the blade as needed. Also, ensure that the deck is level and adjust the cutting height as needed. 

6. Lawn mower overheats 

If your lawn mower is overheating, it may be due to a dirty air filter or cooling fins. Clean or replace the air filter and use a wire brush to clean the cooling fins. 

7. Lawn mower emits smoke

If your lawn mower emits smoke, it may be due to burning oil, a clogged air filter, or a dirty carburetor. Check the oil level and add or replace the oil as needed. Clean or replace the air filter and carburetor. 

8. Lawn mower stalls

If your lawn mower stalls, it may be due to a dirty carburetor or clogged fuel filter. Clean or replace the carburetor and fuel filter as needed. 

9. Lawn mower won't stay running 

If your lawn mower won't stay running, it may be due to a dirty carburetor or clogged fuel filter. Clean or replace the carburetor and fuel filter as needed. Also, check the spark plug and ignition system for damage. 

10. Lawn mower won't shut off

If your lawn mower won't shut off, it may be due to a malfunctioning ignition system or faulty kill switch. Check the ignition system and kill switch for damage and replace as needed. 

Regular maintenance and timely repairs can extend the life of your lawn mower. However, if you're having trouble fixing your lawn mower, don't hesitate to contact a professional. If you're in Webster Groves, MO or De Soto, MO, you can contact Lawn Care Equipment Company for expert lawn mower repair services. They can be reached at (314) 961-5700 for the Webster Groves location or (636) 337-0000 for the De Soto location.