Does the thought of a perfectly manicured lawn fill you with dread when you look at the price tag of a brand-new mower? You’re not alone. Maintaining a beautiful yard shouldn’t break the bank, but navigating the world of used lawn mowers can feel like a jungle of rust, hidden problems, and questionable sellers.
Finding a reliable, pre-owned machine offers huge savings, but the fear of buying a lemon—one that quits halfway through your first cut—stops many homeowners. You want power and longevity without the hefty new-equipment cost. We understand that confusion! How do you spot a hidden engine issue, and what questions absolutely must you ask before handing over your cash?
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you the simple, step-by-step process for inspecting used mowers, ensuring you drive away with a dependable workhorse, not a weekend headache. Get ready to save serious money and keep your grass looking sharp. Let’s dive into finding your next great used lawn mower!
Top Used Lawn Mowers Recommendations
- High-Performance Brushless Motor: The cordless lawn mower features a brushless motor that delivers 2800 RPM on Low and 3400 RPM on High for efficient cutting power and long-lasting performance.
- 4-Position Cutting Height Adjustment: This battery lawn mower offers 4 cutting height settings from 1.3 inches to 2.6 inches to match seasonal growth and your preferred cut.
- Wide Cut and Bagging: The 13-inch deck helps you cover more ground with fewer passes, and the 30L removable rear bag makes cleanup simple. A 2-step safety start helps prevent accidental start-up for added peace of mind.
- Dual-Battery Runtime: Powered by two 20V 4.0Ah lithium batteries, this electric lawn mower provides up to 30 minutes of runtime on a full charge. Swap batteries to reduce downtime and keep mowing moving. Ideal for small to medium lawns. Runtime may vary based on grass conditions, terrain, and operation.
- Complete Kit Included: Includes 1× 13-inch cordless lawn mower, 2× 20V 4.0Ah batteries, 1× single-port charger, and 1× 8-gallon grass bag. Easy to assemble and simple to use.
- Powerful Cordless Performance - Harness gas-like power without the hassle! The brushless motor delivers 3550 RPM for efficient cutting, with up to 35 minutes of runtime per charge (4.0Ah battery included). Perfect for small to medium yards
- Lightweight & Durable Design - 13" rust-resistant poly deck ensures effortless maneuverability around tight spaces. Enjoy 50% quieter operation* and extended motor life compared to traditional mowers. (*vs. gas models)
- Smart Cutting Adjustments - Single-lever 5-position height control adapts to any grass length. 2-in-1 versatility allows you to mulch or rear bag grass clippings.
- Zero-Maintenance Freedom - No gas, oil, or emissions—start instantly with a button press! Ideal for eco-conscious users: Reduce noise pollution and carbon footprint while saving $200+ on 5-year maintenance costs*. (*Estimate based on gas mower averages)
- Complete Ecosystem Value- Includes battery, fast charger, grass bag & 3year tool + 3year battery warranty Works with 200+ Greenworks 24V tools(trimmers, blowers, chainsaws...)—expand your cordless toolkit.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE: Tackle your yard with 3,300 RPM of power and a 14-inch cutting width
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: No gas or batteries needed to power the mower
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR CUT: Effortlessly change the height of your cut with 5 cutting positions varying between 1.4-inches and 3-inches
- MAX MANEUVERABILITY: Features 7.75-inch rear wheels for easy navigation around the lawn
- 7-GALLON COLLECTION BAG: Neatly stores grass clippings for a tidier lawn
- Effortless Power for ½ Acre Yards- Experience gas-like performance without the hassle—35 minutes of continuous runtime from a single 4.0Ah battery (full charge in 2 hours). Perfect for small to medium lawns up to ½ acre.
- Ultra-Lightweight Design (35% Lighter)- 16" cutting deck with ergonomic handles and push-button start makes maneuvering effortless—ideal for users prioritizing comfort and ease of storage.
- Smart Cut Adjustment System- Single-lever 5-position height control (1.25"-3.375") adapts to any grass type. 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging system maximizes clippings management.
- Zero Maintenance, Maximum Savings- No gas/oil costs, emissions, or engine tune-ups. Save $200+ annually vs gas mowers with whisper-quiet operation (<75dB).
- Complete Ecosystem Value- Includes battery, fast charger, grass bag & 3year tool + 3year battery warranty Works with 75+ Greenworks 40V tools(trimmers, blowers, chainsaws...)—expand your cordless toolkit.
- Powerful & Efficient OHV 144cc Engine: Equipped with a robust 4-stroke OHV 144cc engine, this lawn mower delivers unmatched performance and reliability, ensuring a clean and efficient cut every time.
- Versatile 3-in-1 Cutting System: Choose between mulching and side discharge options to suit your lawn care needs. Mulching finely chops grass clippings to enrich your soil, while side discharge allows for quick and easy cleanup of larger areas.
- Lightweight & Easy Maneuverability: Weighing just 62 lbs, this lawn mower is a breeze to push and maneuver around your garden. Its compact design makes it perfect for tight spaces and small yards, ensuring no corner is left uncut.
- Customizable Cutting Height for Perfect Results: With 6-position height adjustment, you can easily customize the cutting height from 1.5 to 3.9 inches to achieve the perfect lawn finish. Whether you prefer a short, neat look or a lush, green carpet, this mower has you covered.
- Safety First with Start/Stop Control Lever: Designed with your safety in mind, the start/stop control lever allows for easy and immediate stopping of the mower in case of emergencies. This feature prevents accidents and injuries, giving you peace of mind while you work on your lawn.
- Gas Powered Engine: A 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine equipped with recoil starter and auto choke for easy start, delivers strong power.
- 2-in-1 Steel Deck: All-steel deck built to last, combine mulching and bagging capabilities in 1.
- 21" Cutting Blade: The heavy-duty blade delivers better cutting effect, allowing you to mow more in less time.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Dual-lever height adjustment with 6 cutting positions allows you to choose your cut from 1.5" to 3.9".
- Easy to Assemble: Foldable design saves 70% storage space, making it more convenient to unfold and use.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE: Tackle your yard with 3,500 RPM of power and a 16-inch cutting width
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: No gas or batteries needed to power the mower
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR CUT: Effortlessly change the height of your cut with 5 cutting positions varying between 1.4-inches and 3-inches
- MAX MANEUVERABILITY: Features 8.86-inch rear wheels for easy navigation around the lawn
- 8-GALLON COLLECTION BAG: Neatly stores grass clippings for a tidier lawn
- Multi-Function Convenience: Easily switch between mowing, trimming, and edging for three-in-one versatility with your string trimmer
- Powerful Cutting Performance: The 6.5 amp motor with POWERDRIVE Transmission delivers top results when tackling tough weeds and thick grass using your electric weed eater
- Continuous Operation: Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) system allows uninterrupted work without bumping or manual adjustments, keeping your grass cutter efficient
- Ideal for Small Lawns: Designed for compact spaces with a 12-inch cutting width, 1.6-inch cutting height, and speeds up to 8000 RPM, this grass trimmer is built for precision
- Comfort and Control: Lightweight construction with adjustable handle and height positions ensures maximum comfort during use
Your Smart Guide to Buying a Used Lawn Mower
Buying a used lawn mower can save you a lot of money. You just need to know what to check. This guide helps you find a reliable machine that lasts.
Key Features to Look For
Engine Health
The engine is the heart of the mower. Always ask when the last oil change happened. Listen closely when the seller starts it. A good engine starts easily. It should run smoothly without sputtering or smoking heavily. Blue or white smoke means oil is burning, which is bad.
Cutting Deck Condition
The cutting deck is the metal part under the mower that holds the blades. Rust is the enemy here. Look for large holes or weak spots in the metal. A solid deck ensures an even cut and a longer life for the mower.
Wheel and Drive System
If you look at a self-propelled mower, check the wheels. Do they spin freely? If it’s self-propelled, test the drive system. Does it engage smoothly? Worn gears mean costly repairs later.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials used tell you about the mower’s expected lifespan.
- Steel Decks: Most quality mowers use heavy-gauge steel for the deck. Thicker steel resists dents and rust better than thin metal.
- Aluminum Components: Some high-end mowers use aluminum. Aluminum does not rust, but it can crack under heavy impact.
- Plastic Housing: Check the wheels and handle components. High-quality, thick plastic lasts longer than thin, brittle plastic that easily cracks in the cold.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What you see on the surface is important, but what’s underneath matters more.
Quality Boosters:
- Maintenance Records: A seller who keeps receipts for oil changes and new blades shows they cared for the machine.
- Original Parts: Mowers that still have original spark plugs or belts might indicate less stressful use.
- Storage: A mower kept inside a dry garage lasts longer than one left out in the rain all winter.
Quality Reducers (Red Flags):
- Deep Rust: Heavy, flaky rust means the metal structure is weak.
- Missing Guards: Safety features, like the discharge chute cover, should be present. If they are missing, it suggests rough use.
- Engine Leaks: Oil or fuel leaking from seals means gaskets might be old and need replacement soon.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about your yard size before you buy. A push mower is great for small, flat yards. If your yard is large or hilly, you need a self-propelled model.
Push Mowers (Good for Small Lots):
These are simple and usually cheaper. They offer great exercise. If you buy one, make sure the blade is sharp and the wheels turn easily, as you do all the work.
Self-Propelled Mowers (Good for Medium/Hilly Lots):
These models save your energy. Test the speed settings. Does the mower move at a steady pace? Ensure the drive belt looks tight and not cracked.
Riding Mowers (Good for Large Yards):
These require the most inspection. Check the seat for tears (water damage is common). Test the steering linkage—it should not feel loose or sloppy. Change the battery immediately if it seems old.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Used Mowers
Q: How old is too old for a used gas mower?
A: Generally, avoid mowers older than 10 to 12 years unless they are a premium brand known for longevity. Newer models often have better, more efficient engines.
Q: Should I buy electric or gas when buying used?
A: Gas mowers offer more power for thick grass. Used electric mowers are quieter, but you must check the battery condition. A dead lithium-ion battery can cost almost as much as a new budget mower.
Q: What is the best way to check for engine compression?
A: Unless you are a mechanic, the easiest test is to pull the starter cord. If it feels very easy to pull with no resistance, compression might be low. It should offer firm resistance.
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a decent used push mower?
A: For a well-maintained, mid-range brand (like Toro or Honda) that is three to five years old, expect to pay between $100 and $200, depending on your local market.
Q: What is the most common repair on a used mower?
A: The most common fix is replacing the blade or the spark plug. These are cheap and easy fixes.
Q: Can I negotiate the price?
A: Yes, always try. If you find rust spots or the seller admits it needs a new air filter, use those issues to ask for a lower price.
Q: What should I do immediately after buying a used gas mower?
A: Change the oil and spark plug right away. This simple step establishes a known maintenance baseline for you.
Q: How do I know if the self-propel cable is damaged?
A: Engage the drive lever. If it feels spongy, slips, or doesn’t engage smoothly, the cable or belt might need adjustment or replacement.
Q: Is a washed-out engine a bad sign?
A: Yes. If the engine housing looks like it was aggressively power-washed, it might mean the seller tried to hide oil leaks or excessive dirt. Look for clean, dry engine parts.
Q: Should I buy a mower with a vertical shaft engine or horizontal shaft engine?
A: Most standard walk-behind mowers use a vertical shaft engine. These are fine for normal use. Horizontal shafts are usually found on tillers or log splitters.