Why won’t my lawn mower engine starter engage?

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Starter Cranks Engine Too Slowly
Engine Will Not Crank

Starter Motor Spins, But Does Not Crank Engine
Starter Motor Spins, But Will Not Stop

Engine Maintenance Check

It can be frustrating when your lawn mower or small engine starter won’t engage, but there are solutions you can take to prevent and correct starter problems. This guide should help you find out how to locate and repair common issues with starters.

If your engine won’t start, the engine itself should be thoroughly checked first to eliminate common engine problems (like a fouled spark plug or fuel issues) as the cause of starting difficulty.

The first step in diagnosing problems with lawn mower starter parts is to make sure the engine can rotate properly by disconnecting the spark plug leads, removing the spark plugs, and turning the crankshaft over slowly by hand.

Warning: Unintentional sparking can result in an electric shock or a fire. Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep away from the spark plug. Use an approved spark checker. Do not check for spark with the spark plug removed.

Also, check for dirt or debris in the starter gear shaft and apply some lithium-based grease to the shaft.

Lawn Mower Starter Gear Problems & Repair

Use the list below to diagnose problems for 12-volt starting systems. If you are testing any parts with a multimeter, you should get a reading of 12 volts or more.

NOTE: To extend the life of the starter, use short starting cycles (five seconds maximum). Wait one minute between starting cycles.

If the starter cranks the engine too slowly, you likely have a problem with...

Additional load affecting performance- belt drag, incorrect hydraulic oil, debris.
Discharged (dead) battery, faulty electrical connection (battery circuit), corroded terminals, battery leads too long or wire diameter too small, or incorrect size battery (too small). To address these issues, check the battery and charging system for problems.
Wrong oil viscosity for temperature expected. Use the Small Engine Oil Recommendation FAQ for info on choosing the right lubricant for your lawn mower or outdoor power products.
Dirty or worn starter motor commutator, bearing, weak magnets, etc.
Worn brushes or weak brush springs.
Valve lash out of adjustment.
Internal bearing issues

For dirty or worn parts, use our Repair Parts Look-up to find the appropriate replacements. Your local Briggs & Stratton dealer can also assist you in finding and replacing any faulty small engine parts.

If the engine will not crank, you likely have a problem with...

Discharged / defective battery or faulty electrical connections. To address these issues, check the battery and charging system for problems.
Faulty parts: potentially the safety interlocks, starter motor switch (open circuit), or solenoid.
Brushes sticking, etc

For this type of advanced repair, we recommend using a Briggs & Stratton Repair Manual for full detailed instructions on testing for faulty parts or reaching out to a Briggs & Stratton service dealer for assistance.

If the starter motor spins but does not crank the engine, you likely have a problem with...

Faulty or damaged battery. To address this issue, check the battery and charging system for problems.
Incorrect rotation due to reversed motor polarity or reverse battery connections - all motors rotate counterclockwise viewed from the pinion gear. If your motor is running clockwise, try reconnecting the battery.
Pinion gear issues - sticking due to dirty / damaged spline or damaged pinion or ring gear. Use your Briggs & Stratton manual & Illustrated Parts List to find the appropriate parts and check for dirt or damage. Clean and/or replace as necessary.
Starter motor clutch slipping. To address this issue, disassemble the clutch, clean the base and ball bearings with carburetor cleaner and reassemble.

If the starter motor spins, but will not stop, you likely have a problem with the...

Defective starter switch
Defective solenoid

Using your Repair Manual and a digital multimeter, you can test the starter switch and/or the solenoid to ensure they are working properly. We recommend a Repair Manual for full instructions on checking each part or contacting a Briggs & Stratton dealer for repair help.

WARNING: Always read the engine and equipment manual(s) before starting,operating, or servicing your engine or equipment to avoid personal injury or property damage. See an authorized dealer if you are unsure of any procedure or have additional questions. Find all Engine Safety Warnings.