There are many reasons a riding lawn mower won't start—everything from stale gas to ignition switch problems.
If you constantly have to charge the battery, a bad battery or failed alternator could be causing the problem. If the battery won't charge fully within 8 hours when connected to a charger, you probably have to replace the battery. If the battery is okay, blame shifts to the alternator.
If the engine spins but won't start when you turn the key, the engine is missing one of its key requirements for starting—fuel, compression or spark. Check the basics first, then watch our riding mower engine spins but won't start video for troubleshooting tips to get the engine started.
If you hear a click when you turn the key, a dead battery, bad starter solenoid, failed starter motor or a seized engine could be the cause. Our riding mower engine clicks but doesn't turn over video will help you figure out what to fix.
When the mower seems completely dead, check the battery, ignition switch, interlock switches, starter solenoid and wiring to find out what's wrong. Lawn mower ignition switch problems can prevent the starter from getting current. Our riding lawn mower engine won't turn over or click video will help you systematically check starting system parts.
The suggestions below can help get your mower going if you have a Craftsman, Husqvarna, Troy-Bilt, MTD, John Deere or Cub Cadet model.