{"id":38285,"date":"2025-04-21T19:58:41","date_gmt":"2025-04-21T19:58:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=38285"},"modified":"2026-03-25T15:55:53","modified_gmt":"2026-03-25T15:55:53","slug":"how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Change the Oil in a Lawn Mower"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changing your lawn mower\u2019s oil is easy. I\u2019ll show you the 5-step process I use when I regularly change the oil on the mowers I use to cut customers\u2019 lawns here in Virginia Beach.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the correct oil and a few basic tools, most homeowners can handle this maintenance task in under half an hour.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most push mowers need an oil change every 50 hours or once per season. Riding mowers typically require an oil change every 100 hours or once per season.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changing the oil is one of the simplest and most effective ways to extend engine life and prevent costly repairs.&nbsp;<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-fe82e9bf-447b-444f-bffc-a074772708e4\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">How to Change Your Mower\u2019s Oil in 5 Steps<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower\/#0-step-1-prep-your-lawn-mower\" style=\"\">Step 1: Prep your lawn mower<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower\/#1-step-2-drain-the-old-oil\" style=\"\">Step 2: Drain the old oil<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower\/#5-step-3-add-new-oil\" style=\"\">Step 3: Add new oil<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower\/#6-step-4-change-the-oil-filter-if-equipped\" style=\"\">Step 4: Change the oil filter (if equipped)<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower\/#7-step-5-final-check\" style=\"\">Step 5: Final check<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower\/#8-mechanic%E2%80%99s-fyi\" style=\"\">Mechanic\u2019s FYI<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-oil-lawn-mower\/#9-faq-about-changing-oil-in-your-lawn-mower\" style=\"\">FAQ About Changing Oil in Your Lawn Mower<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Skill level:<\/strong> Beginner<br><strong>Estimated time: <\/strong>15 to 30 minutes<br><strong>Cost:<\/strong> $11 and $80, depending on whether you need filters or if you buy an oil extractor<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you\u2019ll need:<\/strong><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">*You won\u2019t need every item listed. It depends on your mower.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Required<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Optional<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 Correct engine oil (check the sticker on the mower or the owner\u2019s manual)<\/td><td>\u2022 Wrench or socket (if your mower has a drain plug)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u2022 Oil drain pan<\/td><td>\u2022 Oil extractor<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u2022 Funnel<\/td><td>\u2022 New oil filter (mostly riding mowers)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u2022 Rags or paper towels<\/td><td>\u2022 Gloves<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u2022 Cardboard or plastic to protect the ground<\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-step-1-prep-your-lawn-mower\"><span id=\"step-1-prep-your-lawn-mower\">Step 1: Prep your lawn mower<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Park your lawn mower on level ground. Run the engine for 5\u201310 minutes to warm the oil, then shut it off and allow it to cool completely. Disconnect the spark plug wire or remove the battery to prevent accidental starts.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-lawn-mower-maintenance-practices\/\">Best Lawn Mower Maintenance Practices<\/a><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-step-2-drain-the-old-oil\"><span id=\"step-2-drain-the-old-oil\">Step 2: Drain the old oil<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I\u2019ll detail three common methods to drain the old oil: using the drain plug (mostly for riding mowers), tilting your mower to its side (mostly or push mowers), or using an oil extractor (works for any mower).<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-use-the-drain-plug-best-for-riding-mowers\"><span id=\"use-the-drain-plug-best-for-riding-mowers\">Use the drain plug (best for riding mowers)<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on your lawn mower\u2019s design, the oil drain plug is commonly found beneath the mower deck or at the bottom of the engine block, often near the crankshaft.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Place a drain pan under the plug, use a wrench to remove the plug, and allow the oil to drain completely into the pan. Reinstall the plug and tighten it snugly. Wipe up any spills and transfer the used oil to a sealed container.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-tip-the-lawn-mower-best-for-most-push-mowers\"><span id=\"tip-the-lawn-mower-best-for-most-push-mowers\">Tip the lawn mower (best for most push mowers)<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always tip the mower with the air filter and carburetor facing up. (This keeps oil from spilling into them.)&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remove the oil cap or dipstick (use a wrench, if needed)and drain the oil into a pan.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Set the mower back level once empty.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wipe up any spills and transfer the used oil into a sealed container.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-oil-extractor-any-mower\"><span id=\"oil-extractor-any-mower\">Oil extractor (any mower)<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remove the dipstick, insert the extractor tube to the bottom of the oil reservoir, and pump the oil out.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Transfer the used oil into a sealed container.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important note: <\/strong>Never dump your lawn mower\u2019s used motor oil on the ground, in the trash, down the drain, or into storm sewers. Used motor oil is hazardous waste. In accordance with EPA guidelines, it must be disposed of at a certified recycling or collection facility. Instead, store your used oil in a clean, labeled container, and once it\u2019s full, take it to a recycling location. Many auto parts stores, municipal waste collection centers, and gas stations also accept used oil.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-step-3-add-new-oil\"><span id=\"step-3-add-new-oil\">Step 3:<strong> <\/strong>Add new oil<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/change-mower-oil.jpg\" alt=\"Person pouring oil into a lawn mower engine through a green funnel\" class=\"wp-image-44961\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/change-mower-oil.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/change-mower-oil-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/change-mower-oil-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/change-mower-oil-610x406.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pouring oil into a lawn mower engine. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/a-man-pours-oil-on-his-lawn-mower\/212517470\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PLG<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock <\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use the oil sticker on the mower or engine as your primary guide. Most mowers clearly list the correct oil type, oil capacity, and proper fill level. This information should always take priority.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you can\u2019t find the manual or a label on your lawn mower, use this guide based on the type of engine and your climate:<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Oil Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Best for<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Characteristics<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>SAE 30<\/strong><\/td><td>Small engines, push mowers<\/td><td>This oil is used in warm weather (40 degrees and above)&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>10W-30&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td>Push mowers, riding mowers<\/td><td>Good for warm and cold weather<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Synthetic 5W-30<\/strong><\/td><td>High-performance mowers<\/td><td>Performs in all temperatures<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>15W-50<\/strong><\/td><td>Heavy-duty or racing mowers<\/td><td>Hot climates and heavy workloads<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Place a funnel into the oil fill opening. Slowly pour the recommended amount of oil. Push mowers typically take 15 to 20 ounces, while riding mowers need 48 to 64 ounces.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re unsure how much oil you\u2019ve added, you can easily check with the dipstick: Remove it and wipe it clean, insert it again, and pull it out. The oil mark on the dipstick should be between the Low and Full levels.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Add more oil if needed and recheck with the dipstick.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don\u2019t overfill. Too much oil can cause smoking, leaks, or engine damage.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note: <\/strong>Dipsticks are accurate, but only when dipsticks are checked correctly.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-step-4-change-the-oil-filter-if-equipped\"><span id=\"step-4-change-the-oil-filter-if-equipped\">Step 4: Change the oil filter (if equipped)<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your lawn mower has an oil filter, you should replace the oil filter&nbsp; whenever you change the oil. Oil filters are commonly found on riding mowers and some high-end push mowers. Push mowers with small engines usually don\u2019t have an oil filter.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First, locate the oil filter, which is usually near the engine on riding mowers or close to the oil fill cap on push mowers.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Place a drain pan underneath, as some oil may spill during removal.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, turn the filter counterclockwise to unscrew it. If it\u2019s stuck, use an oil filter wrench for extra grip. Apply a small amount of fresh oil to the rubber gasket. This helps create a proper seal and makes removal easier next time.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, screw in the new filter by turning it clockwise until snug but don\u2019t overtighten, as this can damage the gasket. &nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note: Some engines recommend pre-filling the filter; check your manual.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-step-5-final-check\"><span id=\"step-5-final-check\">Step 5: Final check<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure the oil filler cap is securely tightened, then reconnect the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-spark-plugs-lawn-mower\/\">spark plug<\/a> wire or reinstall the battery if you removed it earlier.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then, start the engine and let it run for 2 or 3 minutes. This helps the new oil circulate through the engine and ensures everything works properly. After shutting off the mower, check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, recheck the oil level using the dipstick. Running the engine may cause the oil level to drop a little. If needed, add a little more oil to bring it to the full mark.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-mechanic%E2%80%99s-fyi\"><span id=\"mechanics-fyi\">Mechanic\u2019s FYI<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changing your oil at the manufacturer\u2019s recommended intervals can easily double the life of your mower\u2019s engine. Skipping oil changes is one of the fastest ways to destroy an otherwise good mower.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re uncomfortable doing this yourself, a local small-engine mechanic can usually handle an oil change quickly and affordably.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-faq-about-changing-oil-in-your-lawn-mower\"><span id=\"faq-about-changing-oil-in-your-lawn-mower\">FAQ About Changing Oil in Your Lawn Mower<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773840328436\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Why is my mower smoking after an oil change?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A small amount of smoke right after an oil change is normal. It\u2019s usually oil residue burning off the engine. Let the mower run for a few minutes and the smoke should clear.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773840339222\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What if the smoke doesn\u2019t go away?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Persistent smoke usually means the engine was overfilled with oil. Shut the mower off and recheck the oil level using the mower\u2019s sticker or manual.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773840349654\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can I rely on the dipstick alone?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Not always. Dipsticks can give misleading readings if the mower isn\u2019t level, the engine is warm, or the dipstick isn\u2019t used correctly. Always prioritize the mower\u2019s oil sticker or manual.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773840361654\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Do I really need to change oil every season?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Even low-hour mowers benefit from fresh oil. Old oil breaks down and carries contaminants that shorten engine life.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-find-a-lawn-care-pro-in-your-area-\"><span id=\"find-a-lawn-care-pro-in-your-area\"><strong>Find a lawn care pro in your area<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular lawn mower oil changes ensure your lawn mower runs efficiently and lasts for years. A well-maintained mower makes yard work easier. If you ever need help <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-mowing\">mowing your lawn<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-fertilization\">fertilizing<\/a>, or <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/weed-control\">controlling weeds<\/a>, Lawn Love can connect you with a professional in your area.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read next:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-often-sharpen-mower-blades\/\">How Often Should You Sharpen Lawn Mower Blades?<br><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-sharpen-lawn-mower-blades\/\">How to Sharpen Lawn Mower Blades<\/a><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: Checking the oil level on a lawn mower with a dipstick. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/lawn-mower-oil-check\/57196618\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">romarti<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You can change the oil in your lawn mower by using the drain plug, tilting your mower to its side, or using an oil extractor.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":130,"featured_media":45759,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[331],"tags":[350],"class_list":["post-38285","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lawn-care-equipment","tag-lawn-care-equipment"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/How-to-Change-the-Oil-in-a-Lawn-Mower.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Chelsea Morris","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/chelsea-morris\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38285","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/130"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=38285"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38285\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":45760,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38285\/revisions\/45760"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/45759"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=38285"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=38285"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=38285"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}