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Husqvarna Lawnmower Starting Problems. Troubleshoot & Fixes

Often, lawnmower owners need help with their lawnmowers—the most noticeable and common issues related to starting the lawnmower. Husqvarna Lawnmowers are usually quite durable and offer long-term performance. However, taking good care of your lawnmower is the key to lending it a long shelf life for years without needing a major repair. 

Husqvarna lawnmower starting problems. Troubleshooting with fixes

Troubleshooting a Husqvarna lawnmower that doesn’t start involves inspecting key fuel delivery and ignition system components, such as the carburetor, fuel lines, air and fuel filters, and the spark plug. Any clog, fault, or damage in these components can cause your lawnmower not to start. Sometimes, a broken flywheel key or damaged recoil may prevent startup. In battery-powered mowers, the fault typically lies in the connections of the start switch or the battery.

Let’s individually discuss the role of these components and their troubleshooting to assist all Husqvarna Lawnmower owners in keeping their machines up and running.

Husqvarna Lawn Mower Starting Problems: Troubleshooting with Fixes

Husqvarna lawnmowers have enjoyed a better reputation amongst their owners. However, when a lawnmower doesn’t function smoothly, it depends on how it’s maintained.

The most common problem individuals face is the lawnmower not starting or starting but stalling afterward. Let’s highlight some major issues that can trigger lawn mower malfunctions.

1. Fuel-Related Issues: 

Using low-quality fuel can often lead to specific problems with the engine of a lawn mower. It impacts the starting of a lawn mower as the low-quality fuel disintegrates into by-products that can clog the tank and form a sticky adhesive substance in the pipes that can restrict combustion.

Therefore, high-quality gasoline combined with fuel stabilizers can help prevent the engine from shutting down due to fuel issues. 

2. Clogged Air Filter:

The air filter is essential to maintain an air passageway for combustion gases and other dissidents to pass out from the system quickly. Long-term use can impede the air filter with grass, dirt, or small pebbles. Therefore, occasionally checking and cleaning the air filter is mandatory for engine efficiency. 

3. Fuel Cap Blockage: 

A fuel cap is usually vented to allow petrol vapors to escape into the atmosphere and equalize vapor pressure. When the vent gets blocked due to dirt, it produces a vapor buildup in the tank, due to which the fuel supply to the engine gets affected. As a result, the engine shuts down. Hence, cleaning the fuel cap from dirt is needed to fix your Husqvarna lawnmower. 

4. Fuel Pump Leakage: 

As the name indicates, this pump propels the fuel to flow toward the engine. Any leakage or damage in the fuel pump will not generate enough fuel pressure and flow rate for the engine to start. Replace such pumps for the lawnmower to start. 

5. Carburetor: 

Carburetors are essential to look after when it comes to the longevity of a lawn mower. Carburetor is responsible for mixing the air and fuel vapors and feeding them to the engine for combustion. However, fumes from low-quality fuel often clog the carburetor, reducing the air and fuel mix supply to the engine for combustion.

Therefore, you need clean the carburetors with anti-alcohol agents, preferably using WD-40 or a carb-cleaning liquid 

6. Damaged Recoil: 

Self-propelled lawnmowers have a pull-start ignition method. If it breaks or damages, the engine won’t start. Excessive force could break the pulley, or the string might get loose. Replace these components for the recoil to function correctly again. However, if the recoil is damaged, it must also be replaced for the engine to ignite. 

Husqvarna Riding Lawn Mowers:

Riding lawnmowers are a heavy-duty solution for mowing tough terrains easily and effectively.
Husqvarna riding lawnmowers include some features that make mowing, hauling, or plowing more convenient and pleasant, such as:

  • An electronic or automated locking rear differential will increase traction when cutting on slopes or damp grass.
  • A hydrostatic gearbox that is pedal-operated and enables you to control the vehicle’s speed and direction while keeping both hands on the steering wheel.
  • Cruising mode
  • Movable, adjustable seat

Let us discuss some troubleshooting issues that might develop in Husqvarna riding lawnmowers and how to solve them quickly at home without needing a professional mechanic.

1. Lawnmower Does Not Start?

If a riding lawnmower doesn’t start, you should check the following:

  • Fuel Quantity: Verify the gasoline level and that the tank is filled with new fuel. Starting issues might be caused by gasoline that is polluted or old. Drain the tank and replace it with fresh petrol if it is stale.
  • Damaged Spark Plugs: Look for wear or damage in the spark plug. Replace the spark plug with a new one if necessary.
  • Air Filter: To improve airflow and prevent starting problems, clean the air filter with a soap-water solution.
  • Safety Switches: Check the operation of the safety switches, including the seat switch and the brake/clutch switch. If the switch is engaged, the lawnmower might not start.

2. Lawnmower Starts but Then Dies?

If a riding lawnmower starts but dies, the issues are similar to when it doesn’t start. If faced with this issue, you should do the following:

  • Check the Carburetor: Look for dirt or obstructions in the carburetor. Make sure the fuel lines are unobstructed and the carburetor is clean.
  • Check Fuel Cap: Verify that the gasoline cap is vented correctly. The engine may stall if a clogged vent causes a vapor lock in the fuel tank.
  • Check Ignition Coil: Check the ignition coil for wear or damage. The engine may lose spark and stall due to a damaged ignition coil.

3. Husqvarna Lawnmower is Smoking?

A lawnmower that smokes excessively indicates that there is excessive fuel for combustion, or the engine oil is also burnt due to its leakage into the combustion chamber. The following are the causes of this:

  • Chamber Oil Leak: White smoke could indicate a combustion chamber oil leak. Verify that the mower is not overfilled and that the oil level is correct. Check the engine for oil leaks and make any required repairs.
  • Worn Valve Seals/ Piston Rings: If the piston rings are cracked or worn out, the oil from the crankcase can be drawn into the combustion chamber.
  • Poor tuning: If the engine is tuned to a rich fuel mixture, it produces black smoke that causes burning in the eyes. To fix this problem, adjust the carburetor’s throttle settings (L, H, and I switches). Also, make sure the carburetor is serviced correctly.

4. Husqvarna Lawnmower Runs Rough/Misfires?

If a riding lawnmower runs rough, the engine isn’t getting a steady flow of the air-fuel mixture from the carburetor, possibly due to a clogged carburetor. In some cases, debris can get stuck in the blades causing it to run rough. Furthermore,

Check the spark plug, and if required, replace it. A bad spark plug wouldn’t sustain combustion in the engine. In some cases, misadjusted spark timing can also cause this problem. If the above steps don’t work, check the flywheel key and see if it isn’t sheared off. A misplaced key upsets the spark ignition timing.

5. Husqvarna Lawnmower Has a Dead Battery?

To troubleshoot a lawnmower with a probably dead battery, you must follow the following procedure:

  • Rust or Looseness: Check for rust or silt at the battery connections. Using hot water, clean these connections from silt buildup.
  • Utilizing a Voltmeter: Use a voltmeter to check the battery terminal voltage. If it is less than 12V, recharge it again. If it still falls lower than 12V, the battery has probably desulphated.
  • Checking Charging System: Check whether the charging system/alternator is working and isn’t decoupled from the battery. A loose connection with the battery terminals may also cause a dead battery frequently.

Husqvarna Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers:

Husqvarna Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers are much lighter, more maneuverable, and cost less than their riding counterparts. They are also much easier to maintain.

Let’s discuss troubleshooting problems and fixes for a Husqvarna self-propelled lawn mower that doesn’t start.

1. Lawnmower engine doesn’t start.

If your lawnmower engine won’t start or the ignition dies abruptly, a blocked fuel cap vent, a faulty spark plug, a broken flywheel brake, or a clogged carburetor will likely be blamed. 

You need to examine each component individually by cleaning the fuel cap and carburetor of dirt and debris, repairing the spark plug, and looking for and replacing a sheared flywheel key. In that case, your lawnmower would be up and running.

2. Lawnmower Pull Cord Doesn’t Work?

If the pull cord on your self-propelled lawnmower isn’t working, you must perform the following procedures to fix it.

  • Recoil Starter Assembly: Check for wear or damage to the recoil starter assembly. To do this, remove the blower housing and check the pull cord whether it’s worn out or stuck. If it is, you need to replace the recoil assembly.
  • Stuck Cutting Blades: The pull cord would get stuck if debris is stuck in the spindle or the cutting blades. It would be best if you tilted the lawnmower to inspect and remove the debris causing a blockage.

Husqvarna Battery-Powered Lawnmowers:

Cordless, battery-powered lawnmowers are much quieter, safer, and more eco-friendly than gasoline-powered mowers. These machines are usually of the walk-behind configuration.

Being electric-powered, these lawnmowers require less maintenance. The only reason they face starting problems is due to loose connections.

1. Electric Lawnmower Doesn’t Start?

– Battery Problems: 

Long-term use may cause the battery to die, or the wires sometimes need tightening. Additionally, the electric terminals could also be rusted.
Therefore, to diagnose these issues, the battery must be charged. If the battery voltage has decreased after a recharge, it needs a replacement. Furthermore, the battery terminals need to be tightened and rust-free.

– Starter Switch Damage: 

The starter switch can be broken or loose due to rough use. Check the switch with a multimeter for connectivity. Also, check the switch connections and see for burnt terminals.

2. Electric Lawnmower shuts down?

A broken/burnt start switch likely causes your battery-powered lawnmower to shut down during operation.
Check the connections at the switch and confirm if they aren’t burnt or loose. Additionally, you should check the battery level if the lawnmower shuts down during operation. Recharging it again might fix the problem.

If the lawnmower doesn’t start, the motor is probably defective. In this case, you should avoid fixing it alone and contact customer support for repair/replacing the motor.

Lawnmower Starting Problems

1. Gas-Powered Lawnmower Starting Problems

S#
Problem
Causes
Fixes
1
Lawnmower doesn’t start
a. Empty fuel tank
b. Clogged carburetor
c. Air filter blocked with dirt.
d. Spark plug with worn-out electrodes
a. Before adding fresh, drain old fuel residues from the tank.
b. Inspect and clean the air and fuel filters from debris. Replace if necessary.
c. Disassemble and clean the carburetor using a carb. cleaner liquid.
d. Replace the spark plug if electrodes are worn out.
2
Lawnmower starts but then dies
a. Blocked air filter
b. Clogged carburetor jets
c. Vapor lock in the fuel tank
a. Clean the air filter using soap and water. Replace if needed.
b. Clean the carburetor jets from residues using a carb cleaner spray.
c. Clean the fuel tank vents to prevent a vapor lock.
3
Lawnmower is smoking
a. Oil leaking into the combustion chamber
b. Blocked air filter  
a. Avoid overfilling the oil tank.
b. Always tilt the mower with the air filter pointing upwards.
c. Check and replace worn-out gaskets.
d. Clean the air filter.
4
The lawnmower runs rough/misfires
a. Stale fuel deposits in the fuel system.
b. Broken flywheel key
a. Perform a complete tune-up involving cleaning the filters, carburetor, and fuel lines.
b. Replace the flywheel key.

2. Corded Electric Lawnmower Starting Problems

S#
Problem
Causes
Fixes
1
Lawnmower doesn’t start
a. Loose connection
b. Defective extension cord
c. Faulty start switch
d. Tripped circuit breaker
a. Ensure the connections aren’t loose and the socket is working.
b. Try plugging in directly without an extension cord.
c. Test the start switch using a multimeter and replace it if needed.
d. Reset the tripped circuit breaker.
2
The lawnmower shuts down during operation.
a. Loose plug at the socket
b. Tripped circuit breaker
c. Motor winding damage
a. Ensure the connection isn’t loose and the socket works.
b. Reset the circuit breaker or replace the blown switches.
c. Contact customer support to seek a replacement in case of motor damage.

3. Cordless Battery Powered Lawnmower Starting Problems

S#
Problem
Causes
Fixes
1
Lawnmower doesn’t start
a. Low battery
b. Faulty start switch  
a. Ensure the battery is fully charged.
b. Test the start switch for continuity using a multimeter.  
2
The lawnmower shuts down during operation.
a. Low battery
b. Overheating
c. Debris obstructing the blades  
a. Ensure the battery is fully charged.
b. Let the lawnmower cool down for 10-15 minutes and restart.
c. Clean the mower’s underside and remove any debris/grass clippings.

4. Robotic Lawnmower Starting Problems

S#
Problem
Causes
Fixes
1
Lawnmower doesn’t start
a. Disconnected boundary wire
b. Faulty power supply
c. Software update
d. Debris stuck in blades
a. Ensure the boundary wire is connected to the charging station.
b. The battery connections should be correct and the charging should be sufficient.
c. Keep the software up to date.
d. Remove any debris stuck between blades.
2
The lawnmower keeps shutting down mid-operation
a. Ensure the boundary wire is connected to the charging station.
b. The battery connections should be correct, and the charging should be sufficient.
c. Keep the software up to date.
d. Remove any debris stuck between blades.
a. Avoid mowing when the conditions are damp.
b. Resolve error messages on the display.
  1. Mitchell Fields says:

    Can using premium gasoline prevent starting issues?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Using premium gasoline may not prevent starting issues in Husqvarna lawnmowers. Troubleshoot key components such as the carburetor, fuel lines, and spark plug for smoother operation.

  2. Brett Jensen says:

    I had no idea the fuel cap could cause starting issues.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      “Thank you for reading! Yes, the fuel cap plays a significant role in starting issues. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Husqvarna lawnmower running smoothly. Happy mowing!”

  3. Alex Smith says:

    I feel more confident in maintaining my Husqvarna lawnmower now.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      I’m glad to hear that you feel more confident in maintaining your Husqvarna lawnmower now. Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly for years to come. Happy mowing!

  4. Oscar Howard says:

    Thank you for these troubleshooting tips!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Oscar! I’m glad you found the troubleshooting tips helpful for your Husqvarna lawnmower. Happy mowing!

  5. Lawrence Black says:

    I never knew fuel quality could affect the lawnmower’s starting.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Lawrence! Fuel quality is crucial for lawnmower performance. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Husqvarna lawnmower running smoothly.

  6. Mildred Foster says:

    Is it possible to fix a damaged recoil myself?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      It is recommended to seek professional help to fix a damaged recoil on your lawnmower. It may require specific tools and expertise to ensure it is done correctly.

  7. Dale Douglas says:

    Great video recommendations for further assistance.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Dale! I’m glad you found the video recommendations helpful for troubleshooting Husqvarna lawnmower starting issues. Feel free to reach out for more assistance.

  8. Florence Pena says:

    I didn’t know about the role of the spark plug in starting the lawnmower.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your comment, Florence! It’s always great to learn something new about the inner workings of our lawnmowers. Glad to provide useful information for Husqvarna mower owners!

  9. Alyssa Olson says:

    What should I do if my lawnmower is still not starting after trying these fixes?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      If your lawnmower is still not starting, it may be time to check the carburetor for clogs or damage and ensure the fuel lines are clear. A professional may be needed for further diagnosis.

  10. Regina Gordon says:

    Is it safe to use WD-40 on the carburetor?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      It is not recommended to use WD-40 on the carburetor of your lawnmower. It is best to use a carburetor cleaner or contact a professional for assistance.

  11. Ronnie Mills says:

    This article will save me money on professional repairs.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Ronnie! I’m glad that the article was helpful to you. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance with your Husqvarna lawnmower.

  12. Philip Dunn says:

    How can I prevent my lawnmower from stalling after starting?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Ensure your fuel cap vent is clear, air filter is clean, and carburetor isn’t clogged. Check these components to prevent stalling issues on your Husqvarna lawnmower.

  13. Arianna Herrera says:

    I appreciate the detailed explanations for each component.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Arianna! I’m glad you found the explanations helpful. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions.

  14. Antonio Reynolds says:

    The troubleshooting steps are easy to follow, thank you.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Antonio. I’m glad you found the troubleshooting steps easy to follow. Remember, proper maintenance is key to keeping your Husqvarna lawnmower running smoothly for years to come.

  15. Jenny Herrera says:

    What is the best way to clean the carburetor?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      To clean the carburetor of your Husqvarna lawnmower, use a carb-cleaning liquid or WD-40 to remove any clogs caused by low-quality fuel. Regular maintenance is key to a long-lasting machine.

  16. Benjamin Prescott says:

    This is very informative, I will definitely check my air filter now.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for the positive feedback, Benjamin! Checking the air filter is a great preventive maintenance step for your Husqvarna lawnmower. It will ensure smooth operation and longevity. Let me know if you need any more tips!

  17. Angel Mendoza says:

    How often should I clean the air filter?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      You should clean the air filter of your Husqvarna lawnmower occasionally to maintain engine efficiency and prevent starting issues. It’s a crucial step in taking care of your lawnmower for long-term performance.

  18. Daisy Crawford says:

    Is it easy to replace the spark plug?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Replacing the spark plug on a Husqvarna lawnmower is relatively easy. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety precautions. Happy mowing!

  19. Sofia Oliver says:

    What could cause my lawnmower to smoke excessively?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Excessive smoking in your lawnmower could be due to oil leaks into the combustion chamber or worn valve seals. Check for leaks and inspect the piston rings for wear.

  20. Kay May says:

    How do I check if the fuel cap is blocked?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      To check if the fuel cap is blocked on your Husqvarna lawnmower, ensure the vent is clear of dirt to prevent vapor buildup in the tank, affecting fuel supply. Clean the cap to resolve any issues.

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