Get matched with top lawn tool repair specialists in Mora, NM

It's a good idea to lubricate your mower blades and mowing deck with something protective like WD40 that prevents rust and helps stop grass and dirt from sticking to the blades and deck.

Whether it is cheaper to repair or replace your lawn mower depends on the specific issue, the mower's age, and the potential costs. The cost to replace a lawn mower can range from $60 for basic models to over $15,000 for high-end ones. In contrast, small repairs like a spark plug replacement can be as little as $20. However, more significant repairs, such as a damaged crankshaft ($500-$900) or a blown engine, can cost hundreds of dollars. Some people follow a 'three-year rule,' opting to replace mowers older than three years rather than repair them. For a clear decision, it's best to consult a lawn mower repair technician who can assess the damage and provide an accurate quote.

If you keep it clean and sharp, your reel mower should last for about 10-20 years. In comparison, the lifespan of most self-propelled lawn mowers is about half as long as that.

A standard home lawn mower with sharp blades can handle a thin layer of leaves without issue. You may need to make a couple of passes within several days to mulch leaves down, but your mower shouldn’t struggle. If your mower comes with a mulching kit, like an attachment to blow leaves out the side, that’s a good sign it’s ready for fall leaves. Set your mower to the highest or near-highest height for this project so it focuses on the leaves rather than the grass below.