There’s nothing more frustrating than when your trusty Craftsman lawn mower suddenly refuses to turn on—whether it’s a push mower, self-propelled, or riding model. Whether you’re hearing nothing at all, a single “click,” or your engine is turning over but not firing, the good news is that most Craftsman mower starting problems can be traced to a few common causes. With this guide, you’ll quickly diagnose the issue and get back to mowing with confidence.
Quick-Check: Why Won’t My Craftsman Mower Turn On?
- Dead or disconnected battery (electric start and riding mowers)
- No fuel, old or stale gasoline (gas models)
- Spark plug wire disconnected or spark plug fouled
- Clogged air filter or fuel filter
- Faulty ignition switch, starter solenoid, or blown fuse (riding/electric start models)
- Safety switch not engaged (seat, brake, blade control, or bail lever)
- Choke not set or primer bulb not working (gas models)
- Blade or engine jammed by debris
- Loose, broken, or corroded battery cables
- Damaged or disconnected wiring (especially after storage or rodents)
- Empty or faulty oil level sensor (some models shut off if low on oil)
- Starter motor, relay, or control module failure
1. Power/Battery: Check the Basics First
- Electric start & riding mowers: Ensure the battery is charged and connected. Clean any corrosion from terminals and tighten cables. If possible, jump-start with a known-good 12V battery (never use 24V).
- If the mower clicks but doesn’t crank, battery is likely weak or dead. Charge or replace it.
- Push mowers: For battery models, fully charge and reinstall the battery, checking it “clicks” firmly into place.
- For corded electrics, confirm your outlet has power and try a different heavy-duty extension cord.
2. Fuel and Oil: Essential for Gas Mowers
- Check the fuel tank—refill with fresh, clean gasoline. Old fuel left over from last season is a leading cause of no-start.
- On 4-cycle engines, confirm oil is at the proper level. Add oil if needed; most modern engines will not start (or will die quickly) if the oil sensor detects low oil.
- Prime the engine (if equipped) and set choke to START for cold starting.
3. Spark Plug and Ignition System
- Remove and inspect the spark plug for black soot, oil, rust, or damage. Clean or replace if needed. Set the correct gap (check your manual, usually 0.028–0.030 inches).
- Ensure the spark plug wire is firmly attached—loose or disconnected wires are a common “no start” cause.
- Test for spark by grounding the plug on the engine and pulling the cord (or cranking). No spark means the plug, wire, or coil may be bad.
4. Air and Fuel Filters
- Remove the air filter. If it’s dirty or clogged, clean or replace it—this takes only a minute and can make all the difference.
- Replace the fuel filter yearly or when clogged to ensure fuel reaches the carburetor.
5. Safety Switches and Controls
- Riding mowers: Sit on the seat, set parking brake, and ensure blade/PTO is OFF. Most models have safety switches that must be fully engaged to crank.
- Walk-behind mowers: Squeeze the bail (safety) bar against the handle while pulling the starter cord. Some also require holding a start button.
- Check for sticky or worn switches, especially if the mower sat unused.
- Wiggle levers and re-engage to “wake up” stuck switches.
6. Blades, Deck, and Mechanical Jams
- Disconnect spark plug wire or battery before checking under the deck.
- Look for sticks, rocks, or grass clumps jammed in the blade or deck. Remove all debris before trying to start again.
- Spin the blade by hand (wear gloves). It should move freely; resistance may mean a mechanical problem.
7. Starter, Solenoid, Switches, and Fuses (Riding/Electric Start Models)
- Check the ignition switch—if it feels loose or worn, it may need replacement.
- Locate and inspect the starter solenoid; listen for a “click” when turning the key. No click often means a bad solenoid or wiring issue.
- Replace any blown fuses (usually near the battery or under the seat/panel).
- Check for broken, loose, or corroded wiring, especially after winter storage.
8. For Battery/Electric Mowers: Special Checks
- Make sure the safety key is inserted and all covers are closed properly.
- Use only the recommended charger for your battery. If the battery won’t charge or mower is dead, try a second battery if available.
- Check for GFCI/tripped outlets or extension cord issues with corded models.
Preventive Maintenance for Easy Starts
- Replace the spark plug, air filter, and fuel filter every season
- Use only fresh gasoline and add stabilizer for winter storage
- Keep battery terminals clean and cables tight (riding/electric start models)
- Clean under the deck and around engine/blade area after every mow
- Inspect and lube all controls, levers, and linkages regularly
- Store mower in a dry, sheltered area out of rain and sun
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does my Craftsman mower do nothing when I turn the key?
Most likely causes are a dead battery, loose cables, blown fuse, bad ignition switch, or an unengaged safety switch (seat, brake, or blade control).
What if my mower just “clicks” but won’t turn over?
This usually means the battery is weak, the solenoid is bad, or cables are loose/corroded. Charge or replace the battery and check connections.
Can a bad spark plug cause a no-start?
Absolutely. A fouled, wet, or damaged plug can keep your mower from firing up. Replace with a new, correctly gapped spark plug.
Why won’t my push mower even try to start?
Check that the bail lever is fully squeezed, the spark plug wire is attached, and fuel is fresh. Old gas and disconnected wires are common culprits.
When should I call for repair?
If you’ve checked fuel, spark, battery, switches, and removed jams but your mower still won’t start, you may need professional service for starter, coil, or engine repairs.
Conclusion: Get Your Craftsman Mower Running Again
Most Craftsman lawn mower start problems are caused by fuel, battery, ignition, or safety switches. With a little time and these step-by-step checks, you can solve most issues at home—and keep your mower running strong season after season.
Ready for reliable mowing? Use this guide for quick fixes and stress-free starts every time!