what type of oil for lawn mower

What Type Of Oil For Lawn Mower You Should Use? See Which One To Pick & Why

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Are you finding it hard to figure out what kind of oil for lawn mower should you go for that would give the best-expected results?

With so many types of oil existing for lawn mowers application, it’s actually common to find people getting confused. And that is because there are quite a few factors that play a crucial role in finalizing which type of oil would work best. You see, each type of lawn mower oil serves some specific benefits that may suit a certain engine better than the other. And so, it definitely makes sense if we put some effort into understanding oil categories to achieve better consequences through the proper lawn care practices. As that’s the whole point of this discussion, making sure your lawn equipment is getting something it absolutely needs.

So, what motor oil should you use for your lawn mower? Look, we wish the answer was something that could be described with few words, but that’s not the case. And so, it’s necessary to explore the different sorts of oils with their application specified as well as answer some of your mostly asked queries regarding the matter. That seems like the best approach to us for making this issue completely aware to you.

However, if we have to choose one oil that quite works for most lawn mowers out there, then it has to be the AmazonBasics 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, a fabulous SAE 30 pick that comes with rust prevention, long drain interval formulation as well as some emission-reducing capabilities.

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What Type of Oil for Lawn Mower?

Lawn mowers are a handy tool that needs decent oil for healthy engines. Not all engine oils are the same so it’s better to learn about lawn mower oil types.

oil type chart

SAE 30 Oil

The SAE 30 has a 30 viscosity rating that mostly works well on lawn mowers that are made for small gardens. This type of motor oil is also used for 5° C higher temperatures.

Apart from other motor types, it is very simple to apply on different weathers with no struggle. From summer to winter, the SAE 30 oil won’t break down or give a hitch. It also gives great lubrication to the engine part that helps to increase working and efficiency.

As said by Morning To Bed guide,

“And the smaller the engine is, the warmer it gets regarding its temperature. For this kind of engine, SAE 30 oil type is the best option.”

Which is absolutely true, SAE 30 definitely works better for small engines of lawn mowers to perform well in hot temperatures.

Not only that this type of oil type helps the mower engine to improve starting but also increase warm-up to lessen operating viscosity. And, it supports the mower motor to get rid of dust or debris clogging which restricts working speed.

When To Use SAE 30 Oil:

Most experts suggest using the SAE 30 oil in the small lawn mower engine at warm conditions. Even though this type of oil is good for all seasons, the SAE 30 works well to grant optimal power and reduce wear.

SAE 10W-30 Oil

If you wondering what kind of oil for lawn mower to use that needs higher mileage, then the SAE 10W-30 oil is the best bet.

This type of oil is good for both cold and warm temperatures to give a stunning engine performance. But, one bad side of the SAE 10W-30 oil is it needs more oil than other types in warm weather. Yet, it also gives easy starting with no struggle when the engine in idle.

And, the SAE10W-30 oil is a multigrade option that can transfer liquid on the fuel tank at a decent pressure. It as well gives great hand to run the engine at rough and rich speed.

Besides, this type of oil is the finest for the winter seasons. The 10W-30 oil is also a decent option that helps lawn mower to work for an extended period of time.

Do you know what the “W” in 10W-30 is? It indicated the weight, viscosity, and thickness of the oil. That means it has a thick type of consistency compared to others to apply well.

When To Use SAE 10W-30 Oil:

The SAE 10W-30 oil is recommended to use if you live in cold weather. It is also helpful to provide long engine life by reducing friction and corrode.

SAE 5W-30 Oil

One of the best types of lawn mower oil is the SAE 5W-30 that has less thickness. It is also a very decent pick for wintery areas. Since this oil type has a thin state, it works fine on spring, sunny, and rainy seasons too.

We find this lawn mower oil helpful to makes sure a strong engine lifespan by reducing friction. It as well performs like a master to lubricate the engine part that ensures fast operation. The SAE 5W-30 oil also works perfectly at low and high temperatures.

Despite this type of oil is not good for heavy-duty engines, it works fine on light purposes. The SAE 5W-30 oil is also very popular among many users that help the engine to change the flow depending on the speed.

And, it is also easy to operate by increasing engine efficiency and prevents clogging. On the face of it, this type of oil has cold viscosity with a rating of 30.

When To Use SAE 5W-30 Oil:

We find the SAE 5W-30 oil a perfect alternative to ride on long tricks in cold climates. It also supports the engine to flow in a good speed at a low temperature. This type of oil protects the engine by saving fuel consumption.

Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Oil

This type of oil is best in performance and protection at any temperature to deliver the finest engine acceleration. It is also handy and effective to perk up lawn mower engine starting. And, the synthetic SAE 5W-30 ensures less spending by saving fuel well.

No wonder of its efficiency, it is great in use that lasts for about 5,000 to 7,000 miles in general. This type of engine oil helps improving effectiveness. Also, it is great for light-duty engines of a lawn mower to cut down friction.

The synthetic SAE 5W-30 oil helps increasing engine longevity by preventing rust and corrosion on the parts. It also increases the lifespan of the engine.

And, this type of motor oil helps cleaning engine sludge and deposits to enhance the working speed. It as well helps the engine to work the same way in both cold and awfully warm weather. Besides, this synthetic SAE 5W-30 oil diminishes wear and tears.

Where To Use Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Oil:

Unlike most, the Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Toro, and Kohler lawn mower brands suggest using synthetic 5W-30 oil in their engines. It is also finest to improve the working or engines.

Vanguard 15W-50 Oil

The Vanguard 15W-50 is one of the high graded and maintenance-free options for commercial use. It is also great for engines in most weather to work in the finest way. This type of oil helps slow-working engines to get better strength and lubrication to perform like a new one.

However, it is suitable for use in outdoor 130° F temperature for heat protection. Also, this type of oil has cold temperature protection for up to -20° F to use in winter.

Luckily, the Vanguard 15W-50 oil has a viscosity rating of 50 out of 60 that indicates it is thin in density. It also helps to remove friction and wear issues of the engine.

This type of oil as well ensures lawn mower to do its job decently with no speed concern. It also improves engine working by reducing sludge and debris to avoid blockage.

Where To Use Vanguard 15W-50 Oil:

The Vanguard 15W-50 oil is made heavier compared to others that made to be used in Briggs & Stratton mowers. This type of oil is special for use in high-performing engines.

How To Check The Oil Level Of Your Lawn Mower?

A common issue for most novices with oil of lawn mower is they put too much or less to level rightly. When pouring oil in the lawn mower engine, it is better to check the level of it. So, take the following steps to ensure a level of your lawn mower.

Put Pressure To Open

You need to use some pressure in a clockwise position on the dipstick cap to open it out. Makes sure you are not doing it too harshly.

Clean The Surface

Next, you need to take out the cap. Then, use a clean cloth to wipe the dirt and debris. Just be sure there is no spill of motor oil.

Insert The Dipstick Cap

Put the dipstick cap back to the groove. Makes sure the teeth of the dipstick cap are matching the groove top. Apply some pressure to fit the cap so that it can lock in an anticlockwise position.

Detach The Dipstick Cap

Again, you need to take out the dipstick cap just like before. This way you can see the oil level better. To check well, try pouring oil through the groove at a time. It will give an idea of low or high oil levels. Let it sit for 1 minute to attach the dipstick cap again.

How To Change Lawn Mower Oil?


Similar to cars and other vehicles, lawn mowers also need engine oil replacement. Most of the time, they need an oil change every 50 hours of working. If you are new to this topic, we have given some steps that are easy to follow to get the job done well.

Step-1: You need to warm up the engine. This way your lawn mower engine will flow smoothly.

Step-2: Take a paper towel and clean the oil fill areas.

Step-3: Grab an oil pan to place on the sides of the lawn mower where you’ll drain the oil.

Step-4: Take out the oil fill cap. Then, let it sit for 1 minute.

Step-5: Next, remove the oil filler to avoid spills on the outside. Also, take out the old filter by removing screws.

Step-6: After that, cover the new filter with oil before attaching it. Try using your finger to spill some motor oil on it.

Step-7: Then, attach the new oil filter. Makes sure to turn it 1/4 or 1/2 to fit well.

Step-8: Now, pour engine oil on the lawn mower engine. Try to stop a few times to ensure it is filling rightly.

Step-9: Replace the cap to finish the process.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

What motor oil to use in my lawn mower?

Try using motor oil on your lawn mower that improves engine speed, effectiveness, and performance. Yet, we suggest not applying cheap quality oil that can burn and cause consumption. You can also check the lawn mower suggestion to select decent oil.

What to do if I put too much oil in my lawn mower?

Mixing oil with gas is a bad thing for your lawn mower that can ruin performance speed. The lawn mowers mostly have 4 cycle engines that shift gas and oil in different tanks. Yet, if you accidentally pour a small amount of oil in the gas tank, it won’t cause severe damage.

Why do lawn mowers need oil?

To increase performance, mileage, lubricate, and many other factors, the lawn mower does need oil. It not only improves the working of the engine but also boasts speed. Using oil on a lawn mower will also reduce friction and wear.

How long does oil last in a lawn mower?

Basically, the lawn mower will last depending on how you use it. However, it should last for at least 50 hours on any season. And after that, you need to replace it.

Final Words

Lawn mowers need a decent type of oil to use for operating fine. Since the model of lawn mower engines is specifically suggested to use one standard of oil, it’s essential to learn about all oil types.

Mostly lawn mower engines are made to use thin and lightweight oil with APR performance ratings. And, some lawn mower oils are good for a specific purpose to perk up an engine working efficiently. Similarly, other lawn mower oil types are fine for warm or cold weather.

Hopefully, this guide helped you learn about what type of oil for lawn mower with the most asked questions and details. Hope you find your suitable oil type. Have A Nice Day!