The Ultimate Guide to Lawn Mower Oil: Types, Selection, and Maintenance

by Jasmine September 23, 2024

written by Jasmine September 23, 2024

What Type of Lawn Mower Oil Should I Use?

Oil Types

The type of oil you use in your lawn mower depends on several factors, including the engine type, climate, and temperature.

4-Cycle Engines

Most gas-powered lawn mowers have 4-cycle engines, which require two separate tanks: one for gas and one for oil. The most common oil weight for 4-cycle engines is 30-weight, which refers to the viscosity or thickness of the oil.

Conventional oil: Mineral-based oil refined from crude oil. Less expensive than synthetic oil, but breaks down more quickly.
Synthetic blend oil: A blend of conventional oil and synthetic oil. Offers some of the benefits of synthetic oil, but at a lower cost.
Fully synthetic oil: Laboratory-created oil that offers the best protection and performance. More expensive than conventional oil, but lasts longer and performs better in extreme temperatures.

2-Cycle Engines

A few 2-cycle lawn mowers are still on the market. These engines use a mixture of gas and oil in a single tank. The oil used in 2-cycle engines is typically a lighter-weight synthetic blend labeled as “performance” or “high-performance.”

Climate and Temperature

The climate and temperature in your area will also affect the type of oil you need.

SAE 30: The most common oil for small engines in warmer temperatures.
SAE 10W-30: Improves cold-weather starting but may increase oil consumption.
Synthetic SAE 5W-30: Best protection at all temperatures, improved starting with less oil consumption.
SAE 5W-30: For very cold temperatures.
Vanguard 15W-50: For varying temperature ranges and continuous use, such as commercial lawn cutting or pressure washing.

Oil Tank Capacity and Change Intervals

The oil tank capacity of a lawn mower varies depending on the type of mower.

Walk-behind mowers: Typically 13 to 22 ounces. Change oil after 50 hours of use.
Riding mowers: Typically 48 to 64 ounces. Change oil after every 100 hours or annually.

How to Check Lawn Mower Oil Level

Checking the oil level in your lawn mower is essential to prevent damage.

Place the mower on a flat surface.
Remove the oil cap and dipstick.
Wipe off the dipstick indicator with a clean towel or rag.
Replace the dipstick and tighten the cap.
Remove the dipstick again and read the oil level against the indicator marks.
Add more oil in small increments if necessary.

How to Change Lawn Mower Oil

Walk-Behind Mowers

Remove the oil cap and tilt the mower over to drain the old oil.
Add new oil to the specified capacity.
Check the oil level and add more as needed.

Riding Mowers

Position an oil pan under the oil-drain sleeve.
Remove the oil-drain plug and allow the oil to drain.
Replace the oil-drain plug and add new oil to the specified capacity.
Check the oil level and add more as needed.

Disposal of Old Oil

Old lawn mower oil should be recycled. Contact your local waste management company or visit Earth911.com for the nearest drop-off location.

Additional Tips

Avoid using special additives with lawn mower oil.
Choose a high-quality detergent oil classified as “For Service SF, SG, SH, SJ” or higher.
Synthetic oil is more expensive but offers better protection and performance.
Change lawn mower oil according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
If you are unsure about the type of oil to use, consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.