Oil Types

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.

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

How to Change Lawn Mower Oil

Walk-Behind Mowers

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

Riding Mowers

1. Position an oil pan under the oil-drain sleeve.
2. Remove the oil-drain plug and allow the oil to drain.
3. Replace the oil-drain plug and add new oil to the specified capacity.
4. 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.