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Why Does My Ryobi Lawn Mower Keep Stopping?

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Maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn is a key concern for most homeowners.

But owning a reliable lawn mower is crucial to achieving this goal.

Isn’t it?

If you’re a proud owner of a Ryobi lawn mower, you know how important it is to have a reliable and efficient machine for maintaining a lush and well-groomed lawn.

However, it can be frustrating when your Ryobi lawn mower unexpectedly stops, disrupting your mowing routine and leaving you pondering: Why does my Ryobi lawn mower keep stopping?

In this article, we will explore the common reasons behind the stalling or stopping of your Ryobi lawn mower during operation.

So, without further delay, let’s advance toward it.

Why Does My Ryobi Lawn Mower Keep Stopping
Why does my Ryobi lawn mower keep stopping? | Image via Magic K

Why Does My Ryobi Lawn Mower Keep Stopping?

If your Ryobi lawn mower stops unexpectedly and refuses to start again, it could be due to various underlying factors that can pose a challenge.

Whether it’s a clogged air filter, a faulty spark plug, or a problem with the fuel system, we are here to guide you in resolving the issue effectively.

Let’s discuss all the reasons why your Ryobi lawn mower keeps stopping.

1. Check the Air Vents

Air vents are crucial in maintaining proper airflow and cooling for the engine.

When the air vents become blocked or clogged with debris, it can restrict airflow toward the engine.

Clogged air vents make it difficult for the engine to start and so make it shut off unexpectedly.

Grass and other garden debris might cause your Ryobi lawn mower air vents to be clogged. This debris prevents air circulation within the engine, which results in shutting the engine off.

So, a dirty air filter might be the reason your Ryobi lawn mower keeps stopping.

Related Article:How to Clean Lawn Mower Air Filter: 3 Types of Lawn Mower Air Filters

Toaddressthis:

  • Locate the air vents on your Ryobi lawn mower, typically found near the engine or on the cutting deck.
  • Inspect the vents for any accumulated dirt, grass clippings, or debris.
  • Use a soft brush or air compressor to clean the vents and ensure open airflow.
  • Regularly checking and cleaning the air vents can help prevent engine problems and keep your mower running smoothly.

If you cannot determine why your Ryobi lawn mower stops continuously, it is best to check the fuel. There are chances that the blockage should occur in the fuel line or an inappropriately cleaned air filter.

Cleaning My Ryobi Mower After a Summer Of Mowing – YouTube

Checking the air vents also helps determine whether the blades are sharp enough. The blades need to be adequately sharpened to perform the best function.

2. Blade Obstruction

A common issue that can cause a Ryobi lawn mower to stop is a blade obstruction.

Debris, such as twigs, stones, or excessive grass clippings, can get lodged in the mower’s cutting deck, blocking the blade’s rotation.

When the blade encounters an obstruction, it can strain the engine, leading to stopping or shutting down for safety reasons.

Let’s see how you can avoid blade obstruction.

  • Regularly inspect the cutting deck and remove any debris or clumps of grass that may have accumulated.
  • Ensure the mower is turned off and disconnected from the power source before attempting to clear any obstructions.

By keeping the cutting deck clear, you can prevent interruptions and ensure smooth operation.

3. Check the Motor

Your Ryobi lawn mower probably keeps stopping because of the damaged fuel line.

If that’s the reason, and the problem persists, you may need to change the entire motor.

On the other hand, a damaged motor can potentially cause a Ryobi lawn mower to shut down as well.

Whether it is due to a clogged fuel line or improper battery installation, you must follow these steps to fix this issue:

  • Inspect the motor for any visible signs of damage, such as loose or disconnected wires, worn-out belts, or leaks.
  • Ensure that all connections are secure and that there are no loose parts.
  • Otherwise, you could try lubricating it.

If all these options fail, consider replacing the cable. 

If the motor is not working, you better check the fuse. Ensure the fuse key is dry when it is not in use. Don’t know where you can find it? Fuse keys are typically located near the battery.

NOTE: If you notice any significant issues with the motor, it is advisable to seek professional assistance for repair or replacement.

4. Overheating

Overheating is also the potential reason why the Ryobi lawn mower is repeatedly stopping.

When the engine becomes excessively hot, it can trigger an automatic shutdown to prevent damage.

Several factors can contribute to overheating, including:

  • Mowing in high temperatures or under direct sunlight
  • Operating the mower for extended periods without breaks
  • A buildup of debris or grass clippings around the engine or cooling fins

To prevent overheating, keeping the mower’s vents and cooling system clean and free from obstructions is essential. For this purpose, regularly inspect and clean any accumulated debris around the engine and cooling fins.

Additionally, consider mowing in shorter intervals or during cooler parts of the day to allow the engine to cool down.

5. Don’t Forget the Battery!

If your Ryobi lawn mower is equipped with a battery, remember that a weak or faulty battery can cause a frequent shutdown.

Dead battery cells can easily be charged with the help of a battery charger (usually provided with the Ryobi lawn mower).

Clean the battery terminals to ensure a good electrical connection. If the battery is freshly charged or tests good in the charger, it is probably not the battery.

But if the battery is old or not holding a charge, it may need to be replaced.

Related Article: 5 Best Lawn Mower Batteries in the Market!

Pro Tip: If your lawn mower suddenly stops while it is working, it could be due to the battery overheating. In such a case, allow the battery to cool down before charging it again.

New Ryobi 40v push mower battery not charging. – YouTube

6. Check the Handle

The handle of the lawn mower is essential for safe and comfortable operation.

To run the mower at its best, make sure to fully extend the handle while operating it.

Listen! While it is possible to lock the handle in a lower position, there is something important to note.

The extensible handle is meant for storage and not to adjust the mower’s height.

The Ryobi lawn mower often won’t start because of the handle. Just to be sure, lower the handle entirely downward. Then extend the handle completely and lock it on both sides.

It will help to avoid problems regarding handle.

7. Spark Plug Issues

A faulty or malfunctioning spark plug can also be why a Ryobi lawn mower keeps stopping.

The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture within the engine’s combustion chamber, facilitating the engine’s operation.

Over time, spark plugs can wear out or become fouled or corroded, causing poor ignition and engine misfires.

Related Article: How to Tell If a Lawn Mower Spark Plug Is Bad?

To address this issue:

  • Start by disconnecting the spark plug wire and using a spark plug wrench.
  • Remove the spark plug from the cylinder head.
  • Examine the spark plug’s condition—look for fouling signs, such as a blackened, oily, or carbon-coated appearance.

If the spark plug is damaged or worn out, replace it with a new one that matches the manufacturer’s specifications.

Pro Tip: Before installing the new spark plug, ensure the gap between the electrode and the ground strap is correctly set, as specified in the mower’s manual.

Reconnect the spark plug wire tightly and securely.

That’s all.

Let’s move toward the conclusion and wrap up the talk here.


Conclusion!

Why does my Ryobi lawn mower keep stopping? I hope you now have the answer.

The Ryobi lawn mower keeps stopping because of clogged air vents or blade obstruction. It can also shut down because of the spark plug or handle issues. What you need to do is identify the underlying cause and take appropriate measures regarding it. 

Now, you can finally say goodbye to the frustration of your Ryobi lawn mower problems.

Follow the guide and get back to enjoying a hassle-free mowing experience!

Regards,
Moiz Atiq.