Petrol lawnmowers need regular servicing to stay reliable. Like a car or motorcycle, a mower has a working engine and moving parts that need checking, cleaning and replacing over time.
The good news is that basic servicing does not need to be complicated. With the right parts and a little preparation, you can keep your mower running well and avoid problems when the grass starts growing again.
As always, start with your user manual. It will give model-specific guidance for servicing intervals, parts and torque settings.
Get ready before the season starts
Spring has a habit of arriving quickly. One week the mower is in storage, and the next the lawn needs cutting.
Servicing your mower before the season begins gives you time to spot any issues early, order parts, and get everything running properly before you need it. It is a simple job that can save a lot of frustration later.
Before you start: safety first
Before carrying out any maintenance, make sure the mower is switched off and cool.
Always disconnect the spark plug first. This helps prevent accidental starting while you are working on the machine, especially when checking or replacing the blade.
Wear suitable gloves when handling blades or working underneath the mower, and follow your manual for the correct servicing method for your specific model.
Step 1: Disconnect the spark plug
Start by locating the spark plug and removing the HT cap.
Once the cap is off, use a spark plug wrench to loosen and remove the plug. Keep the wrench straight as you turn it to avoid damaging the ceramic insulator.
Leave the spark plug out for now. You will refit or replace it later once the rest of the service is complete.
Step 2: Replace the air filter
The air filter protects the engine by stopping dust and debris from entering the intake. A blocked or dirty filter can reduce performance and make starting harder.
On most models, the filter is easy to access by unclipping the outer cover. Remove the old filter, fit the new one, and close the cover securely.
Check your user manual for the correct replacement part for your mower. If you use your mower in dusty conditions, inspect the filter more regularly.
Step 3: Check and replace the blade if needed
A worn or damaged blade will not cut cleanly and can put extra strain on the mower.
Before working on the blade, make sure the spark plug is still removed. Then position the mower safely as directed in your user manual (this matters, as the correct tilt position can vary by model).
Wear heavy-duty gloves, remove the centre bolt, and take off the blade. Fit the replacement blade correctly and tighten the fixing bolt to the torque setting stated in the manual.
Step 4: Sharpen the blade
Even if the blade does not need replacing, it should be sharpened regularly.
A sharp blade gives a cleaner cut and is better for lawn health. A blunt blade tears grass rather than cutting it cleanly, which can leave the lawn looking rough and stressed.
If you are unsure about sharpening, it is worth getting advice before attempting it. The blade must be sharpened evenly and balanced correctly.
Step 5: Tighten loose nuts and bolts
If the mower has been in storage over winter, now is a good time to check fasteners across the machine.
Pay particular attention to:
- wheel fixings
- handle bolts
- blade fixings
- engine mounting bolts (if accessible on your model)
Over time, vibration and storage movement can loosen fittings. A quick check now can prevent bigger issues later.
Step 6: Inspect the pull-start cord
Starter cords take a lot of strain during the season, so it is worth checking the cord before your first cut.
Look for fraying, wear or damage near the handle and recoil housing. If the cord is starting to wear, replacing it early is usually easier than waiting for it to fail.
Step 7: Change the engine oil
Fresh oil helps protect the engine and keeps it running smoothly.
Locate the dipstick and oil fill point (position varies by model). Use a suitable siphon or oil extractor to remove the old oil, then refill with the correct oil type and quantity for your mower.
Check the level carefully on the dipstick and do not overfill. It is also good practice to check the oil level occasionally during the mowing season.
Step 8: Fit the new spark plug
Once the servicing work is complete, fit the spark plug.
Thread it in by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then tighten it with the correct tool. Refit the HT cap securely.
At this point, your mower is ready for a test start.
How often should you service a petrol lawnmower?
As a general guide, service your mower:
- at the start of the season
- every 25 hours of use during peak mowing season (or as stated in your manual)
Regular servicing helps improve reliability, keeps performance consistent, and can extend the life of the machine.
Hyundai service kits
Using a model-specific service kit makes the job much easier, especially if you are replacing common service items like the air filter and spark plug at the same time.
Hyundai offers service kits for specific mower models, which helps ensure you are using the correct parts for your machine.
End-of-season storage tips
A little end-of-season maintenance makes next spring much easier.
Start by cleaning the underside of the deck and removing built-up grass and debris. This helps prevent corrosion, reduces blockages, and keeps airflow around the deck clear.
It is also important to think about fuel. Petrol can go stale in storage, which can lead to starting and running issues later. Follow your manual’s storage guidance for fuel management before winter storage.
If you need to dispose of fuel, always follow your local authority’s guidance for safe disposal.
Final tip
A well-maintained mower is easier to start, cuts more cleanly, and lasts longer.
If you are unsure about any part of the service process, check your user manual first or speak to the Hyundai aftersales team for advice on the correct parts and servicing steps for your model.
