Deciding whether to repair or replace a broken lawn mower can be a tricky decision. Many factors come into play, such as the age of the mower, the cost of repairs, and the overall condition of the machine. One rule of thumb that many lawn mower owners follow is the three-year rule.
The Three-Year Rule
According to the three-year rule, easy repairs are not considered a problem, and even some expensive repairs may be worth it if your mower is less than three years old. However, if the machine is older than three years, the repairs may not be worth it.
If your mower has a liquid-cooled engine, there’s another factor to consider. In this case, you can multiply the horsepower by 150 to determine the approximate number of hours the engine should last. If the repairs will cost more than this amount, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Factors to Consider
When deciding whether to repair or replace your lawn mower, consider the following factors:
Age of the mower
Cost of repairs
Overall condition of the machine
Type of engine (liquid-cooled or air-cooled)
Horsepower (for liquid-cooled engines)
Your budget and long-term plans for the mower
If the repairs are relatively minor and inexpensive, it may be worth fixing the mower, even if it’s older than three years. However, if the repairs are costly and the mower is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be more economical to invest in a new machine.
Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace your lawn mower comes down to your personal preferences, budget, and the specific circumstances of your mower. By considering the factors mentioned above and doing your research, you can make an informed decision that works best for you.