7 Tips for Buying a Used Lawn Mower

Did you notice your grass recently? Yes, it is that time of year to start mowing you lawn again. Need a new lawn mower? If your answer is yes, consider buying a used lawn mower. Buying used can save you a lot of money, if you know what to look for. You don’t want to buy a used lawn mower that will end up costing you more than it is worth. Take a look at the buying guide below.

1. Sometimes shopping online isn’t a good idea. Used lawn mowers are precisely what they sound like, used machines that have been previously owned. This is why it is important to look at them up close and in person in order to see the details. Online descriptions are not always clear and detailed or as accurate as they should be made.
2. Whatever type of lawn mower you decide you want to buy (push, electric, gas or riding) you need to ask the seller questions about the lawn mower being sold. How old is the lawn mower? Why is the seller selling the lawn mower? Does the seller have any paper work on the lawn mower (warranties, guaranties, instructions)? What deal do you have if it breaks down tomorrow? Next week? Next month? Try to get the answer down in writing, especially if you are spending a lot of money on the lawn mower.
3. Give it a test drive. By shopping for a used lawn mower in person you also have the opportunity to test-drive the lawn mower, listen to how it runs and see how it cuts the grass. If it does start does it cut the lawn well? The blades should be sharp enough to cut the grass at the first attempt.
4. Check the lawn mower’s parts. Check the condition of the lawn mower’s body, engine and blade. Just because the lawn mower sounds fine and appears to cut the grass well, does not mean the used lawn mower is in good condition. Do the parts look worn, about to fall apart, or in good condition? Check for oil leaks. Check the spark plugs. If you are looking at an electric lawn mower the battery should hold at least 75% of the time (Electric Lawn Mower).
5. If you don’t know what to look for in a lawn mower or what to ask about it take someone with you that can help (friend, family member, spouse).
6. If you don’t have anyone to take with you read this very helpful article written by Samuel M. Goldwasser.
7. What do you consider a good bargain? Do the research. How much do used lawn mowers sell for online? How much do they sell for in your local classified ads? How much are you willing to pay for a used lawn mower? Are ten dollars too much to pay for a push lawn mower that will break down by the end of the summer? By the end of the week? How much are you willing to spend on a riding lawn mower or an electric one? How much grass will you be cutting? How often will you cut the grass? Can you afford to repair the used lawn mower if it breaks down or can you afford to buy another used one to replace it?

It is important to know what to look for when you buy a used lawn mower. Remember when you buy used you are taking a chance that your purchase will become more trouble than it is worth. So, ask questions and do the research first before you make a purchase.

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