8+ Issues That Cause a Lawn Mower To Backfire or Keep Dying

Your lawn mower engine backfiring is a warning sign that something is wrong. While the issue may be as simple as a problem with the fuel system or dirty spark plugs, it could also result from something more serious, such as a problem with the fuel mixture.

Some issues that cause a lawn mower to backfire are the engine being too hot or cold, the wrong type of gas being used, or a dirty air or oil filter.

Whatever might be causing your lawn mower to backfire, fix the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the engine. But you can’t solve the problems if you don’t know the cause. So read on to learn what causes a lawn mower to backfire and how to fix the issue.

Key Takeaways

  • A lawn mower backfiring is a clear indication of underlying issues. Whether it’s spitting, popping, or after-run backfires, understanding the type of backfire can point you toward potential problems.
  • Most backfiring problems stem from the fuel system and ignition components. Regularly checking and maintaining fuel quality, carburetor cleanliness, spark plugs, and ignition coils can prevent backfiring and ensure smooth operation.
  • While simple maintenance tasks like cleaning air filters or adjusting spark plug gaps can resolve issues, complex problems like exhaust leaks or incorrect valve timing might require professional expertise. Ignoring persistent backfiring can lead to more extensive and costly damage, making timely expert assistance crucial.

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What Causes a Lawn Mower To Backfire?

lawn mower to backfire

A backfire is an explosion that occurs when the engine’s mixture of air and fuel ignites outside of the cylinder. Backfiring can cause damage to the muffler, exhaust system, and other engine parts.

There are two types of backfires:

  • Spitting or popping: This type of backfire happens when the air-fuel mixture in the carburetor ignites. It usually occurs when starting a cold engine or shutting off a warm engine.
  • After-run: This type of backfire happens when unburned fuel ignites in the muffler after you turn off the engine. The issue may signify a problem with the carburetor, fuel, or ignition system.

Lawn Mower Backfires and Won’t Start

If your lawn mower backfires and won’t start, the most likely cause is a problem with the fuel system. Perhaps the fuel is old and has gone bad, or there is water in the gas. Either way, you’ll need to drain the gas tank and replace the fuel.

If draining the gas tank doesn’t fix the problem, there may be an issue with the carburetor. For instance, the carburetor float may be stuck, preventing fuel from flowing into the engine or the carburetor jets may be clogged, preventing the right mixture of air and fuel from reaching the engine.

In either case, you’ll need to clean or rebuild the carburetor. Again, this job is best left to a professional unless you have experience working on small engines.

Lawn Mower Backfires When Starting

If your lawn mower backfires when starting, it’s usually because the engine is cold. When you start a cold engine, the air-fuel mixture in the carburetor is too rich.

With this, there is too much fuel and not enough air. As the engine warms up, the mixture becomes more balanced, and the backfiring should stop.

If your lawn mower continues to backfire after it’s warmed up, the problem is likely with the ignition system. Dirty spark plugs or a faulty ignition coil can cause the engine to misfire, resulting in a backfire.

To fix the problem, clean or replace the spark plugs and check the ignition coil for damage. Again, this job is best left to a professional unless you have experience working on small engines.

Lawn Mower Backfires While Running

If your lawn mower backfires while running, it’s usually because the engine is too hot. When an engine gets too hot, the fuel evaporates before it reaches the cylinder. The problem causes the air-fuel mixture to be too lean, which can cause a backfire.

Let the engine cool down for a few minutes to fix the problem. Then check the oil level and add more oil if necessary. You should also check for any leaks in the fuel system. For example, a leaky fuel line or carburetor gasket can cause the engine to run too hot.

Also, if your lawn mower backfires while running, it could be because of a faulty ignition system. The most likely culprit is a dirty spark plug. First, try cleaning the spark plug with a wire brush. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the spark plug.

Lawn Mower Backfires When I Turn It Off

If your lawn mower backfires when you turn it off, that’s probably because the engine is still hot. When the engine is hot, unburned fuel can ignite in the muffler and cause a backfire. This problem is usually not severe and will go away on its own.

If the problem persists, there could be an issue with the carburetor. First, you may clean the carburetor with a carburetor cleaner. If that doesn’t work, you may need to rebuild or replace the carburetor.

Other Causes of Backfire

lawn mower backfiring

While the most common cause of backfires is a problem with the fuel system, there are other potential causes.

Exhaust Leak

If there’s an exhaust leak, unburned fuel can escape from the engine and ignite in the muffler. This problem will cause the engine to backfire. An exhaust leak can also cause the engine to run lean, which can backfire.

To fix this problem, you’ll need to repair the exhaust leak. Again, I would recommend you leave this job for a professional.

Incorrect Valve Timing

If the valve timing is off, it can cause the engine to backfire. When the valves open incorrectly, unburned fuel can escape from the cylinder and ignite in the exhaust system. Additionally, incorrect valve timing can cause the engine to run lean and backfire.

To fix this problem, you’ll need to adjust the valve timing.

Wrong Spark Plug Gap

If the spark plug gap is too wide or too narrow, it can cause the engine to backfire. A wide spark plug gap will cause the spark plugs to fire too late.

The issue will cause unburned fuel to escape from the cylinder and ignite in the exhaust system. Additionally, a wide spark plug gap can cause the engine to run lean, which can also lead to backfire

The spark plug may also be worn out or damaged. If the spark plug is damaged, it can cause the engine to misfire, resulting in a backfire.

To fix this problem, you’ll need to adjust the spark plug gap or replace the spark plug. But it’s best to let a professional handle this task.

Wrong Gas Type

If you’re using the wrong type of gas, it can cause the engine to backfire. For example, if you’re using regular unleaded gasoline in an engine that requires premium unleaded gasoline, it can cause the engine to run lean and backfire.

You’ll need to use the correct gas type to fix this problem. You should also check your owner’s manual to see what type of gas is recommended for your lawn mower.

Dirty Air or Oil Filter

A dirty air filter will restrict the airflow to the engine. Consequently, the engine will run lean and backfire.

Besides a dirty air filter, a clogged oil filter will also restrict the oil flow to the engine. As a result, the engine will run hot and backfire.

You’ll need to clean or replace the air and oil filters to fix this problem.

Potential Fixes for a Backfiring Mower

Some potential fixes for a backfiring mower include:

  • Replacing the spark plug
  • Adjusting the carburetor
  • Cleaning the air filter
  • Replacing the oil filter
  • Checking the valve timing
  • Adjusting the spark plug gap
  • Using the correct type of gas
  • Repairing an exhaust leak

If none of these fixes work, you may need to take your lawn mower to a professional for further diagnosis and repairs. The expert will be able to troubleshoot the problem and find a solution that works for you.

Why Does My Lawn Mower Keep Dying?

The lawn mower dies when the engine suddenly shuts down or stops running. A range of issues may cause the lawn mower to die depending on varying situations, but whatever the case, you shouldn’t ignore the signals.

Check out these different situations when your lawn mower may die and what they indicate.

Lawn Mower Starts then Dies after a Few Seconds

If your lawn mower starts and dies after a few seconds, there are a few potential causes. The most common cause is that the engine isn’t getting enough gas. There are several potential causes of this, such as a dirty air filter, a clogged fuel filter, or a carburetor issue.

Another possible cause is that the spark plug is damaged or worn out. This problem may be due to age, heat, or debris.

Lawn Mower Runs For 30 Minutes Then Dies

If your lawn mower runs for 30 minutes and then dies, the most likely cause is that the gas is old. Gasoline begins to break down after 30 days, so it’s essential to use fresh gas.

Another possible cause is that the air filter is dirty. A dirty air filter will restrict the airflow to the engine, causing it to run hot and eventually die.

Finally, a problem with the carburetor can also cause this issue. If the carburetor isn’t working correctly, it can cause the engine to run lean and eventually die.

Lawn Mower Stops Running When Hot

If your lawn mower stops running when it is hot, the most likely cause is that the engine is overheating. A dirty air filter, a carburetor issue, or insufficient oil are just a few of the causes of overheating.

Moreover, if the engine has been running for a long time, it may just need to cool down. Try letting it sit for a few minutes before starting it again.

Lawn Mower Cuts Out When Blades Engaged

If your lawn mower cuts out when the blades are engaged, the most likely cause is that the blade is hitting something. A dull blade, tall grass, or hidden objects in the grass are just a few possible causes of this.

The other potential culprit is the engine not getting enough gas. The issue may result from a dirty air filter, a clogged fuel filter, or a problem with the carburetor.

Lawn Mower Cuts Out Going Uphill

If your lawn mower cuts out going uphill, the most likely cause is the engine not getting enough gas. This is simply gravity as the mower tilts to go uphill, the fuel tank tilts, causing the fuel to move as it levels itself under the force of gravity. This will lead to the fuel not reaching the carburetor and consequently not firing the engine.

Alternatively, a dirty or clogged air filter might be to blame. A clogged filter can limit the engine’s power output, and in some cases, this can cause the engine to cut out. Turn off your mower, check the air filter, and remove any debris.

The culprit could also be the spark plug. If the spark plug is damaged or worn out, it can cause the engine to misfire and eventually die.

Other Reasons Your Mower Won’t Stay Running

However, you may encounter other problems that can cause your mower not to run continuously.

Bad Gas

If you’ve been using the same gas for a while, it’s possible that it’s gone bad. Gasoline begins to break down after 30 days, so it’s essential to change the fuel regularly.

The issue may also indicate that you are using the wrong fuel type. Some mowers only run on premium gas, while others require a mixture of gas and oil. Consult your owner’s manual to determine what fuel your mower needs.

Dirty Fuel Cap Vent

The fuel cap on your lawn mower has a small vent that allows air to enter the tank as the fuel is used. If this vent is clogged, it can cause the engine to run lean and eventually die.

To clean the vent, remove the fuel cap and use a small brush or toothpick to clear any debris from the hole.

Dirty Carburettor

If the carburetor is dirty, it can cause the engine to run lean and eventually die. To clean the carburetor, remove the air filter and use a small brush or toothpick to clear any debris from the hole.

You may also need to adjust the carburetor. Again, consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to do this.

Potential Fixes

Some fixes to get your lawn mower running again include:

  • Inspecting the air filter and replacing it if necessary
  • Cleaning the carburetor
  • Replacing the spark plug
  • Checking the fuel line for cracks or leaks
  • Adding fresh gas to the tank

If these fixes don’t resolve the issue, you may need to take your lawn mower to a professional for further diagnosis.

Final Thoughts: Why Is Your Lawn Mower Backfiring?

A backfiring or dying lawn mower is a pain and an inconvenience. Luckily, most of the causes are easily fixed. By troubleshooting the issue and trying some simple fixes, you should be able to get your lawn mower running again in no time.

Some issues that cause a lawn mower to backfire are the engine being too hot or cold, the wrong type of gas being used, or a dirty air filter.

Remember that some problems are best left to the professionals. If you have a hard time diagnosing the issue, or you’ve tried all of the fixes and your lawn mower is still not running correctly, it’s time to take it to a shop. Otherwise, you risk causing costly damage to your mower.