Greenworks Mower Starts Then Stops

You’re about to embark on a troubleshooting journey with your trusty Greenworks mower. It’s the go-to choice for countless lawn enthusiasts, known for its reliability and eco-friendliness.

But here’s the twist: even the best machines can hit a snag. You’re not alone if you’ve ever faced the frustration of your Greenworks mower starting only to stop abruptly. In this guide, we’ve got your back.

We’ll unravel the mystery behind this common issue and equip you with practical solutions. Say goodbye to the “start-stop” headache, and get ready to enjoy a smoothly running mower.

Let’s dive into the Greenworks lawn mower problems, maintenance, and making your yard look pristine again.

Identifying Your Mower

Before we delve into the solutions, let’s discuss the Greenworks mower landscape. Greenworks offers a variety of mower models and versions to suit different needs.

There are corded and cordless electric Greenworks mower models, ranging from lightweight and compact to more robust options.

Some come with advanced features like self-propulsion and many cutting heights. Knowing your specific Greenworks mower type is the first step towards effective troubleshooting.

Each model may have its quirks and unique components. You can pinpoint issues and apply the right fixes by identifying your mower. 

So, we have tailored solutions whether you have the 40V cordless or the 10 Amp corded mower model. Let’s get started.

7 Reasons Greenworks Mower Starts Then Stops

1. Electrical system

Electrical issues can be a buzzkill for your mowing routine. Here are a few of the causes:

Causes:

Faulty Starter Switch. A malfunctioning starter switch can prevent your mower from firing, leaving you stuck with a silent mower.

Solutions:

To fix a problematic starter, switch on your mower, turn it off, and disconnect it from the power source to stay safe.

Then, look closely at the starter switch to see if it’s damaged or corrupted.

Replacing the starter switch is good if you find any issues, like broken parts or rust. Do so by following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Cuts or Frayed Wires. Damaged wires disrupt the electrical flow, causing unexpected stops during mowing.

Solutions:

For damaged wires, start by turning off the mower and, if connected to a cord, unplug it for safety.

Then, look closely at the wires, checking for any obvious signs of harm, like cuts or frayed sections.

If you do find damaged wires, it’s important to swap them out with new ones that match the same size and type.

This way, you can ensure your mower’s electrical system stays in good shape and works as it should, all while staying safe.

Damaged Power Cord. A damaged power cord can lead to intermittent operation or pose safety risks.

Solutions:

To deal with a damaged power cord, disconnect it from the outlet first to prevent accidents.

Then, give the whole cord a good look, checking for any cuts, twists, or wires that might be showing.

If you spot any problems, it’s best to replace the damaged cord entirely. This way, you’ll guarantee that your mower is safe to use, and you won’t have to worry about any electrical hazards.

A Loose Connection. Loose connections can result in sporadic mower operation, making mowing a frustrating experience.

Solutions: 

To fix loose connections in your mower’s electrical system, turn off the mower and unplug it from the power source to stay safe.

Then, check all the electrical parts like wires, plugs, and terminals. If you find any connections that need to be better attached or wobbly, attach them securely to keep the electrical flow steady and your mower working smoothly.

2. Insufficient battery power

A healthy battery is your ticket to a beautiful lawn. Here’s what you need to know:

Causes:

Battery is Not Correctly Installed. The improper installation of a battery can turn your mower into a paperweight. It’s a simple mistake but a common one.

Solution: Ensure the mower is turned off and disconnect it from power. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the battery correctly. It’s usually a matter of aligning and securing it.

Battery Is Dead. A dead battery spells doom for your cordless mower. Signs include no response or a short run time when you turn it on. Buy a replacement battery if the existing can no longer hold charge.

Solution: Recharge the Greenworks battery according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or replace it if it’s beyond resuscitation.

The battery is Excessively Hot. An overheating battery can pose safety risks and hinder mower performance.

Solution: Mow during cooler parts of the day.

Bad Connection with the Battery Charger or Wall Outlet. Charging issues can hamper your mower’s performance and frustrate lawn care efforts.

Solution: Check connections using the right charger and test the power outlet.

3. Damaged components

Electric mowers, like any machinery, have components that may wear out over time. Let’s explore these components and how to keep them in tip-top shape:

Batteries:

Batteries are the lifeblood of electric mowers, providing the energy needed to run the motor and blades.

Reduced run time or trouble starting indicates a faulty battery. When replacing it, choose the right size and type, following the manufacturer’s instructions for a seamless upgrade. 

Blades:

Blades are essential for a clean, precise cut. Damaged or dull blades can compromise your mower’s performance.

Damaged or dull blades result in uneven cuts and potential health issues.

To maintain them, sharpen or replace them when needed. Safety precautions include handling sharp blades carefully. 

Safety Switches:

Safety switches are designed to prevent accidents and injuries during mower operation. They are your guardians during mowing, interrupting power to prevent accidents. They work by sensing irregularities and cutting power when needed.

Ensure they’re functional by inspecting and following guidelines to replace malfunctioning switches for continued safety.

4. Old gas

Using old or stale gasoline in your mower can spell trouble for your lawn care routine. Let’s delve into the potential issues it can cause.

Causes:

Clogged Fuel Systems. Old gasoline can leave behind gummy deposits that clog your mower’s fuel system, hindering fuel flow to the engine.

Starting Problems. Stale gas may not ignite easily as fresh fuel, making it difficult to start the mower or causing it to stall during operation.

Reduced Engine Performance. Outdated gasoline can result in incomplete combustion, leading to decreased engine power and efficiency.

Solutions:

• Drain Old Gas: Remove the old gasoline from your mower’s tank. Ensure proper disposal according to local regulations.
• Refill with Fresh Gas: Fill the tank with fresh, high-quality gasoline, free from contaminants or impurities. Use the correct fuel grade recommended by your mower’s manufacturer.
• Use Fuel Stabilizer: Prevent future stale gas problems by adding a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline when storing your mower for extended periods, thus maintaining fuel freshness.

5. Debris restricting blade rotation

Debris can create significant hurdles for your mower’s blades. Debris in your mower’s path can obstruct blade rotation in several ways:

Blade Blockage. Large debris items can become lodged between the blades, preventing them from turning freely.

Uneven Cutting. Accumulated debris can result in uneven cutting, leaving patches of grass untrimmed and compromising your lawn’s appearance.

Safely Clearing Debris:

To keep your mower operating well, follow these instructions for safely clearing debris:

• Focus on safety First. Turn off the mower and disconnect it from power to avoid accidental starts.
• Inspect the Area. Examine the blade area and underneath the deck for debris buildup. Remove any visible debris using a stick, garden tool, or your hands if protected by gloves.
• Clear the Discharge Chute. Ensure the discharge chute is clear of obstructions for proper grass clippings discharge.
• Regular Maintenance. Periodically inspect your mower for debris accumulation during mowing breaks to prevent issues.

6. Your mowing height needs to be lowered.

Mowing at a low height can adversely affect your mower and lawn. 

Impact of Low Mowing Height:

Stress on the Mower. Mowing too low places added stress on the mower’s engine and blades. It can increase wear and tear, reducing the mower’s lifespan.

Unhealthy Lawn. Cutting grass too short can shock the grass plants, making them more susceptible to disease, pests, and environmental stressors. It can also result in brown patches and an unhealthy appearance.

Adjusting Mowing Height for Optimal Performance:

• Check Mower Settings. Refer to your mower’s user manual to locate and adjust the mowing height settings. Typically, these settings can be found near the mower’s wheels.
• Raise the Mowing Height. Adjust the settings to a higher position to raise the mowing height, allowing your mower to leave the grass longer, promoting a healthier lawn.
• Gradual Transition. If you’ve been mowing too low, gradually adjust height over many mowing sessions to avoid scalping the tall grass.
• Regular Maintenance. Periodically check and adjust the mowing height to suit your lawn’s needs throughout the growing season.

7. Bad spark plugs

Spark plugs may be small but crucial to your mower’s ignition system.

Role of Spark Plugs in Mower Ignition:

Ignition Sparks. Spark plugs create the spark needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. This controlled explosion powers the engine and drives the mower’s blades.

Inspecting and Replacing Spark Plugs:

Follow these steps to inspect and replace spark plugs as needed:

• Safety Comes First. Turn off the mower and disconnect it from power to prevent accidental starts.
• Locate the Spark Plug. Find the spark plug. It’s usually near the engine, connected to a thick wire.
• Inspection. Carefully remove the spark plug using a socket wrench. Examine the electrode at the end of the plug. Signs of trouble include heavy carbon buildup, corrosion, or a worn electrode.
• Cleaning. If the spark plug is dirty but in decent condition, clean it with a wire brush or spark plug cleaner. Ensure it’s completely dry before reinstallation.
• Replacement. If the spark plug shows significant wear, corrosion, or damage, it’s time for a replacement. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct spark plug type and gap specifications.
• Installation. Carefully thread the new spark plug into the engine by hand to prevent cross-threading. Once hand-tight, use a socket wrench to snug it down. Avoid over-tightening.

Table: Greenworks Mower Troubleshooting

Greenworks Mower Troubleshooting

Issue	Causes	Solutions
Electrical System	Faulty Starter Switch, Cuts or Frayed Wires, Damaged Power Cord, A Loose Connection	Turn off the mower, and inspect and replace damaged parts as needed.
Insufficient Battery Power	Battery Not Installed Correctly, Dead Battery, Excessively Hot Battery, Bad Connection with Charger	Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for correct installation. Recharge or replace the battery. Ensure proper cooling and troubleshoot charging problems.
Damaged Components	Batteries, Blades, Safety Switches	Inspect and replace damaged components. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Old Gas	Use of Old or Stale Gasoline	Drain old gas and refill with fresh gasoline.
Debris Restricting Blade Rotation	Debris obstructing blade movement	Safely clear debris from the mower.
Mowing Height Too Low	Cutting grass too short	Adjust the mower’s cutting height for healthier lawn care.
Bad Spark Plugs	Worn or Damaged Spark Plugs	Inspect and replace spark plugs according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

FAQs

Conclusion

Taking good care of your Greenworks mower ensures a trouble-free lawn care routine.

Regular checks and fixes can help resolve common issues such as electrical problems, battery troubles, damaged components, stale gasoline, debris blockages, incorrect mowing heights, and faulty spark plugs.

By following our easy-to-understand solutions and safety precautions, you can maintain a well-functioning mower, promote a healthy lawn, and enjoy smoother mowing experiences. So, keep these tips in mind and mow on with confidence.