Does Running a Lawnmower Out of Oil Void the Warranty?

Responsibility

• Manufacturers expect the owner of the lawnmower to properly maintain the equipment. That means maintaining the oil at the proper level and changing it regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Oil lubricates the engine and helps it avoid overheating. Eventually a lawnmower without oil will stop operating as there will be significant internal damage to the engine.

Warranty

• Manufacturers may provide warranties on lawnmowers lasting up to 60 months. Written warranties list what the manufacturer will repair or replace under warranty. Usually, the manufacturer will repair parts that become defective under normal use during the warranty period. Operating a lawnmower without oil is not considered normal use and voids the warranty.

Exclusions

• Warranties usually clearly note that improper use or neglect of the lawnmower automatically voids the warranty. People seeking warranty service for a failed lawnmower engine are usually directed to a dealer or repair shop authorized by the manufacturer. A small engine specialist will diagnose the problem and may determine that the engine failed because of a lack of oil. At that point the repair shop may decline to repair or replace the engine under the terms of the warranty.

Exceptions

• A lawnmower owner whose machine failed because it ran out of oil must show that a manufacturer's defect caused the problem. The owner might claim that a leak caused oil to spill out of the engine and that the owner could not have known about the problem. Owners should maintain maintenance records during the warranty period. Records should show dates for dealer servicing or work performed by the owner. Owners should list the dates for all oil changes and also note dates when the owner added more oil to the engine. Properly kept records can help show that the owner properly maintained the mower.