If your lawn mower acts like it is running out of gas but the gas is full enough, it could be a problem with the carburetor not supplying fuel to the engine, or a problem with induction, such as a blocked air filter.

Maintaining a lawn mower is essential for keeping your lawn healthy and well-groomed. Proper maintenance will also prolong the life of your mower. However, one common problem is when a lawn mower acts like it is running out of gas, even when the fuel tank is full.

This can be frustrating, especially when you have work and limited time to do it. In this article, we will discuss the signs of a lawn mower running out of fuel, the possible causes of this issue, troubleshooting steps to fix it, and preventative measures to avoid it in the future.

Following these guidelines ensures that your mower runs smoothly and efficiently and can easily tackle your yard work.

Fixing a Lawn Mower that Cuts Out Like It’s Running Low on Fuel

Once you have identified the cause of the problem, you can take steps to fix it. Here are some of the most common fixes:

Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

If the filter is dirty or clogged, an air filter replacement or cleaning can improve airflow and help the mower run more efficiently.

Cleaning or Replacing Fuel Filter

If the air filter is dirty, covered in oil, or clogged, cleaning or replacing it can improve fuel flow and help the mower run more efficiently.

Clearing Fuel Line

If the fuel line is blocked, clearing it can restore fuel flow.

Draining and Replacing Old Fuel

If the fuel in the tank is old or contaminated, draining and replacing it with fresh fuel can help the mower run more efficiently.

Repairing or Replacing the Carburetor

If the carburetor is not working properly, repairing or replacing it can improve fuel and airflow and help the mower run more efficiently. You can also try to spray carburetor cleaner, as you may have a dirty carburetor.

By taking these steps to fix the issue, you can ensure that your mower is running smoothly and efficiently and that you can easily tackle your yard work.

Signs Lawn Mowers are Running Out of Gas

It can be frustrating when a lawn mower acts like it is running out of gas, even when the tank is full. Knowing the signs of this problem is essential to diagnose and fix the issue properly. Here are some common signs that your lawn mower is acting like it is running out of fuel:

Sputtering or Stalling

If your mower starts to sputter or stall during use, this is a common sign that it is running out of fuel or that there is a problem with the fuel system.

Difficulty Starting

If your mower won’t start at all, this could be a sign of insufficient fuel in the tank or a problem with the fuel system.

Uneven Cutting

If your mower is cutting grass unevenly, this could be a sign that the engine is not receiving enough fuel and is not running correctly.

Lack of Power

If your mower lacks power or is not cutting as efficiently as it used to, this could be a sign of a problem with the fuel system.

If you notice any of these signs, diagnosing and fixing the issue is essential to avoid further problems and ensure that your mower is running efficiently.

Causes of the Problem

When a lawn mower acts like it is running out of gas, there can be several underlying causes. Here are some of the most common reasons why this problem can occur:

Dirty Air Filter

A dirty filter can restrict airflow to the engine, leading to poor combustion and reduced power. This can cause the lawn mower to act like it is running out of fuel, even when the tank is full.

Clogged Fuel Filter

A clogged fuel filter can prevent fuel from reaching the engine, causing it to sputter or stall. Unfortunately, this can also lead to the lawn mower acting like it is running out of fuel, even when there is fuel in the tank.

Blocked Fuel Line

A blocked fuel line can also prevent fuel from reaching the engine, causing similar symptoms to a clogged fuel filter.

Old or Contaminated Fuel

Old or contaminated fuel can cause the mower to run poorly, leading to symptoms like sputtering and stalling. Likewise, if the fuel in the tank is old or contaminated, this can cause the lawn mower to act like it is running out of fuel.

Malfunctioning Carburetor

The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air in the correct proportions for combustion. If the carburetor is not working properly, this can cause it to run poorly as well.

By understanding the possible causes of the problem, you can take steps to diagnose and fix the issue.

Prevention Tips

You can take several preventive measures to prevent your lawn mower from acting like it is running out of gas. Here are some tips to help you keep your mower running smoothly:

Use Fresh Fuel

Using fresh gas is essential to preventing your mower from acting like it is running out of gas.

Fuel sitting in the tank for too long can become stale and lose effectiveness, leading to poor performance. Over time, old fuel can also clog the fuel system, causing the engine to run poorly or not start.

To ensure that you are using fresh gas in your mower, it is recommended that you only purchase the amount of fuel that you need for each use. This can help prevent fuel from sitting in the tank for too long and becoming stale.

Additionally, you should store fuel in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Keep the Fuel Lines and Fuel Filter Clean

Keeping the fuel system clean is crucial to preventing your mower from acting like it is running out of gas. Over time, dirt, debris, and other contaminants can build up in the fuel filter, fuel line, and carburetor, obstructing the fuel flow and causing it to run poorly or not start.

To keep the fuel system clean, it is recommended that you perform regular inspections and cleaning. This can include checking and replacing the fuel filter if necessary, inspecting the fuel line for cracks or leaks, and cleaning the carburetor bowl to remove any dirt or debris that may obstruct the fuel flow.

Change the Air Filter Regularly

Changing the air filter regularly is an essential step in preventing your mower from acting like it is running out of gas. The filter is responsible for filtering the air entering the engine, removing dirt, debris, and other contaminants affecting engine performance.

Over time, the clogged filter can restrict airflow to the engine, resulting in a jammed pull cord or failure to start. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended that you change the filter at least once a year or more frequently if you use your lawn mower frequently or in dusty or dirty conditions.

First, locate the air filter housing on your lawn mower to change the air filter. This is typically found on the side or top of the engine and may be secured with screws or clips. Once you have located the housing, remove the cover and remove the old filter.

Inspect the filter for signs of damage or excessive dirt, and replace it with a new filter if necessary. Finally, reinstall the filter cover and secure it with screws or clips.

Store Your Lawn Mower Properly

Proper storage is essential to prevent the equipment from acting like it is running out of gas.

For example, your lawn mower should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources when not in use. Extreme heat or cold can impact fuel performance and engine components, reducing engine performance.

To prepare your lawn mower for storage, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until all fuel is depleted. This can prevent fuel from becoming stale or contaminated during storage, leading to poor engine performance or damage to the fuel lines.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Performing regular maintenance on your lawn mower is crucial to prevent it from acting like running out of gas. In addition, regular maintenance can help identify and address potential problems before they become more serious. This leads to improved engine performance and longer life for your lawn mower.

Maintenance tasks include checking the gas cap, fuel bowl, fuel pump, and fuel cap; oil changes; spark plug replacement; and blade sharpening, among others.

You should consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for specific maintenance requirements and intervals. These can vary depending on the make and model of your mower.

In addition to regular maintenance, addressing any problems or issues as soon as they arise is essential to ensure mowing safety.

By taking these preventive measures, you can help ensure that your lawn mower is running at its best and that you can easily tackle your yard work.

Final Thoughts

A lawn mower that acts like it is running out of gas can be frustrating. However, with the proper troubleshooting and maintenance, you can keep your mower running smoothly and efficiently.

If you take the time to understand the signs of the problem, the possible causes, and the steps you can take to fix it, you can ensure that your lawn mower is always ready when needed.

Remember to perform regular maintenance, use fresh gas, and keep the fuel lines clean to prevent problems from occurring. With these tips, you can enjoy a well-manicured lawn all season long!