Keeping your lawn tidy depends on one key machine doing its job properly. When your lawnmower starts acting up, it’s easy to ignore the signs or hope it sorts itself out. But catching issues early can save time, money and stress.

At Oakleaf Garden & Estate Machinery Ltd, we know what makes a mower tick. Since 1992, we’ve been repairing, maintaining and sharpening all types of garden machinery. From cylinder mowers to ride-on tractors, we’ve seen it all. If you’re looking for reliable lawn mower repairs in Wallingford, our workshop is fully equipped to help.

Here are the signs your mower is in need of some attention and why choosing repair over replacement often makes more sense than you might think.

1. It’s Struggling to Start

If you’re pulling the cord more times than usual or turning the key again and again, something’s not right. A hard-to-start engine could be down to a dirty spark plug, old fuel, a clogged air filter or issues with the carburettor. It’s a common problem that’s often simple to fix. Ignoring it, though, can put more strain on the engine and lead to bigger repairs later.

2. The Cut Is Uneven

An uneven cut can spoil the look of your lawn and put unnecessary wear on the mower. It usually means your blades are dull, damaged or out of balance. On cylinder mowers especially, blade sharpness is critical.

We’ve got in-house cylinder grinding equipment that can sharpen mowers from 12 to 36 inches. Local schools, colleges and golf courses trust us to keep their mowers in top shape because a clean cut matters, especially over large areas.

3. Strange Noises

A mower that starts making grinding, clicking or rattling sounds is telling you something’s wrong. It could be a loose part, a worn bearing or something more serious inside the engine. Catching strange sounds early is key. Leaving them could mean something minor turns into something major.

4. Smoke or Strong Smells

Any smoke coming from your lawnmower is a red flag. White smoke often means oil is getting into places it shouldn’t. Black smoke suggests the fuel mixture is off. Strong fuel or burning smells are also not to be ignored.

These are issues we come across regularly in our workshop. They’re often caused by blocked filters, faulty seals or oil overfilling. We can diagnose and fix them quickly before they lead to engine damage.

5. It’s Using More Fuel Than Usual

If you’re refuelling more often than usual, your mower might not be running efficiently. This could be down to the carburettor, air filters, fuel lines or even tyre pressure on ride-on models.

Over time, fuel build-up and wear can affect how the machine runs. A simple tune-up or part replacement can get it running efficiently again.

6. Vibration or Shaking

If your mower is suddenly vibrating more than usual, especially through the handle, it could be an issue with the blade or crankshaft. Continuing to use it in this state can cause long-term damage.

We always recommend turning the mower off and bringing it in. Our team will check for blade damage, balance issues and more to get it sorted.

7. It’s Just Not Performing

Sometimes it’s nothing specific. The mower just doesn’t seem to have the power or smoothness it once had. It might stall easily, feel sluggish or seem to be working harder than it should.

These general signs are often a result of multiple small issues adding up. A proper service can make a world of difference.

Why Repairing Makes Sense

We get it. When something breaks, it’s tempting to replace it. But with garden machinery, especially quality mowers, repair is often the better route.

Here’s why:

1. You Save Money

A good repair is almost always cheaper than a new mower. If the frame and core components are sound, restoring performance through professional maintenance is a smart investment.

2. You Avoid Waste

There’s no need to scrap a mower that still has years of use left in it. Repairs are more sustainable and reduce unnecessary waste.

3. Better Quality

Older machines are often built to a higher standard than cheaper modern alternatives. Keeping yours running well means you hold onto that quality.

4. You Get Expert Help

Our technicians have been working with garden machinery for over 30 years. That experience means accurate fault diagnosis, quality repairs and honest advice.

We’re not here to push you into a new machine. We’re here to keep your current one working the way it should.

All Types of Equipment Covered

At Oakleaf Garden & Estate Machinery Ltd, we repair and maintain all types of garden equipment, including:

• Cylinder mowers
• Rotary mowers
• Ride-on tractors
• Two-stroke machinery like strimmers and hedge trimmers

It doesn’t matter how old it is or where you bought it. Our fully equipped workshop in Wallingford is ready to get your kit back in shape.

Whether you’re a homeowner, a groundskeeper or looking after a golf course, we offer a fast, honest and knowledgeable service.

Need help with a faulty mower?

For expert lawn mower repairs in Wallingford, contact us at Oakleaf Garden & Estate Machinery Ltd today. Let’s get your equipment running right again.