Winterize Your Lawn Mower in 4 Easy Steps

An hour of fall prep prevents spring headaches and extends your mower's life by years. Wear heavy gloves—blades and edges are unforgiving.

1. Drain the Fuel

Run the tank dry, or siphon gasoline out. Stored fuel gums carburetors, attracts moisture, and separates into varnish. Use fresh gas in your car or snowblower instead.

2. Change the Oil

Drain both crankcase and gearbox (if separate). Refill with fresh oil per the manual. Annual oil changes prevent sludge and engine wear.

3. Disconnect the Battery

Remove it entirely and store indoors (basement, not garage). Cold kills battery capacity; a tender/maintainer keeps it ready for spring.

4. Deep Clean & Protect

Scrape deck buildup, wash the chassis, sharpen or replace the blade. Coat all bare metal with light oil or silicone spray to block rust. Check belts, cables, and air filter.

Even completing one step helps. Do all four, and your mower will start on the first pull when grass grows again.