Does your Greenworks electric lawn mower start, but then quickly shuts off or loses power after a few seconds or minutes? This issue is common with both battery-powered and corded Greenworks mowers—and is usually caused by a handful of fixable problems. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your mower running smoothly and staying on.
Quick Picks: Most Common Reasons a Greenworks Mower Won’t Stay On
- Low or Faulty Battery: For cordless models, a weak or failing battery can power the mower for only a short time before cutting out.
- Overheating Protection: The mower shuts off to protect itself if the motor or battery overheats—often from thick grass, high outside temps, or blocked air vents.
- Loose or Dirty Battery Contacts: Poor connections cause intermittent power loss and sudden shutdowns.
- Deck or Blade Obstruction: Grass, twigs, or debris can jam the blade or overload the motor, causing automatic shut-off.
- Extension Cord Problems (Corded Models): A damaged or low-quality cord, or a loose outlet, can cause power cuts.
- Handle Safety Switch Issue: The mower will turn off if the start lever/bar isn’t held down fully or the safety key isn’t engaged.
- Internal Fault or Controller Issue: In rare cases, a faulty control board, loose wire, or bad internal fuse can cause shut-off problems.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Check & What You Might Need
- Fully charged Greenworks battery (try a spare if you have one)
- Soft cloth or brush: For cleaning battery terminals and vents
- Extension cord (for corded models)
- Work gloves: For checking under the mower deck
- Owner’s manual: For troubleshooting and reset info
Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Greenworks Mower That Won’t Stay On
1. Check the Battery and Contacts (Cordless Models)
- Charge the battery fully—wait for all indicator lights to show a full charge.
- Try a different battery if you have one to rule out battery failure.
- Remove the battery and clean the metal contacts on both the battery and the mower with a dry cloth.
- Re-insert the battery, making sure it’s fully clicked in place.
2. Let the Mower Cool Down
- If the mower feels hot or has been working hard in tall/thick grass, let it rest for at least 15–30 minutes before trying again.
- Check and clear air vents on the mower for dust or grass buildup.
3. Inspect the Blade and Deck for Obstructions
- Remove the battery or unplug the mower before checking under the deck.
- Clear any grass, twigs, or debris that might be jamming the blade or straining the motor.
- Spin the blade by hand (with gloves)—it should turn freely.
4. Test the Handle and Safety Key
- Make sure the handle lever/bar is held fully down when starting and mowing.
- Ensure the safety key is properly installed and not damaged.
- Some models won’t run if the handle isn’t fully extended or locked.
5. For Corded Models: Check Power Supply and Cord
- Inspect your extension cord for cuts, damage, or fraying. Use a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cord.
- Test the outlet with another device to confirm steady power.
- Try a different outlet if possible.
6. Check for Overheating or Internal Fault
- If the mower repeatedly shuts off after a short run and everything above checks out, the mower could be shutting down due to an overheating motor or an internal fault.
- Consult your manual for model-specific reset instructions or fuse locations.
- If the problem persists, contact Greenworks support or an authorized service center for professional help.
Comparison Table: Greenworks Mower Shut-Off Problems & Solutions
| Problem | Solution | Difficulty | Parts Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low/Faulty Battery | Charge or replace battery | Easy | Battery |
| Overheating | Let cool, clear vents | Easy | — |
| Dirty/Loose Contacts | Clean and reseat battery | Easy | Cloth/brush |
| Blade Obstruction | Clear debris, check blade | Easy | — |
| Extension Cord/Outlet (Corded) | Replace cord, check outlet | Easy | Cord |
| Handle/Safety Key | Hold lever, insert key | Easy | Safety key |
| Internal Fault | Service or repair | Medium | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Greenworks mower start and then shut off after a few seconds?
Most often, it’s a low battery, overheating, a blade jam, or a loose battery connection. Try the steps above to pinpoint the cause.
Can overheating cause my mower to shut down?
Yes. Greenworks mowers have built-in protection to shut off if the motor or battery gets too hot.
What should I do if none of these steps fix my mower?
If your mower still won’t stay on after trying these solutions, contact Greenworks customer support or take it to an authorized repair shop for further diagnostics.
Conclusion
If your Greenworks lawn mower won’t stay on, check your battery, clean contacts, clear obstructions, and make sure everything is fully engaged. Most issues are simple fixes—keeping your mower running strong all season long!