How to Troubleshoot a Battery That's Not Charging on a Briggs and Stratton

Lift up the seat on the riding mower and locate the battery. Inspect the battery for any cracks in the housing or for any battery acid leaks. Cracks or signs of leaking indicate a battery failure.

Locate the lids on the top of the battery. These are the lids for the battery cells. Pry the caps off with a screwdriver. Inspect inside the holes. If there is no water in the holes, the cells are dry and cannot hold a charge. Fill the cells with distilled water until the water rests at the top of the hole. Reinstall the plugs.

Place the battery onto a battery charger. Use a charger that runs a diagnostic to determine if the battery is defective. If the diagnostic indicates a defective battery, replace the battery with a new one. If the charger you own does not have built in diagnostics, charge the battery until the charger indicates a full charge. Use the battery as normal. If the battery does not remain charged, take the battery to an automotive parts retailer and ask them to test the battery. Most have the necessary charger to tell if the battery is defective.