The question of what to do with an old lawn mower plagues many homeowners. It sits in the garage, taking up valuable space, a relic of summers past. But before you resign yourself to hauling it to the landfill, consider this: could your old lawn mower be worth something? The answer is a resounding, and nuanced, yes.
Understanding the Value of Your Old Lawn Mower
The value of an old lawn mower isn’t always straightforward. It depends on a variety of factors, including its condition, age, type, and even the current demand for used parts. Knowing these elements is crucial to determining how much money you might realistically expect to receive.
Condition is King (or Queen)
The most significant factor influencing value is the overall condition of the lawn mower. A well-maintained mower that starts easily and runs smoothly will command a higher price than one that’s been neglected and left to rust. Consider these condition-related factors:
- Engine: Does the engine start easily? Does it run smoothly without excessive smoke or unusual noises? A functioning engine is the most valuable component.
- Deck: Is the mower deck free of rust and significant damage? A rusted-out deck significantly reduces the value.
- Blades: Are the blades sharp and in good condition? Dull or damaged blades are a relatively easy fix, but they still detract from the overall appeal.
- Wheels: Are the wheels intact and move freely? Damaged wheels can make the mower difficult to use.
- Overall Appearance: A clean and well-maintained mower is more appealing to buyers than a dirty, neglected one.
Age Matters (But Not Always as Much as You Think)
While a brand-new mower will always be worth more than an older one, age isn’t always a deal-breaker. A well-maintained older mower from a reputable brand can still be quite valuable. Vintage mowers, especially those in exceptional condition, can even fetch premium prices from collectors.
Type of Mower: Riding vs. Push
The type of mower greatly influences its potential resale value. Riding mowers, due to their size and complexity, generally command higher prices than push mowers. Within each category, there are further distinctions:
- Riding Mowers: Factors like engine size (measured in horsepower), deck width, and features like hydrostatic transmissions influence the price.
- Push Mowers: Self-propelled models are typically worth more than manual push mowers. Electric mowers (corded or cordless) also have their own market.
The Brand Factor
Certain brands are known for their quality and durability. Mowers from these brands often hold their value better than lesser-known brands. Popular and reputable brands often translate to better resale opportunities.
Parts Availability
The availability of replacement parts plays a critical role. If parts are readily available, repairing and maintaining the mower is easier, making it more attractive to buyers.
Exploring Your Options: Where to Sell Your Old Lawn Mower
Once you’ve assessed the value of your mower, it’s time to explore your selling options. Several avenues exist, each with its own pros and cons.
Online Marketplaces: Casting a Wide Net
Online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay offer a wide reach, potentially attracting buyers from a larger geographic area.
- Pros: Large audience, potential for higher prices, control over pricing and listing details.
- Cons: Requires creating listings, managing inquiries, coordinating pick-ups, potential for scams.
When listing online, be sure to include detailed descriptions, clear photos, and honest assessments of the mower’s condition. Transparency builds trust and avoids potential disputes later.
Local Repair Shops: A Potential Goldmine for Parts
Local lawn mower repair shops often buy used mowers for parts. This can be a good option if your mower is in poor condition or has a blown engine.
- Pros: Convenient, quick sale, no need to clean or repair the mower.
- Cons: Lower prices compared to selling directly, potential for haggling.
Call around to several local repair shops to compare offers. Be prepared to describe the mower’s condition accurately.
Pawn Shops: Quick Cash, but Lower Returns
Pawn shops are another option for selling your old mower quickly. However, they typically offer the lowest prices, as they need to factor in their own profit margin.
- Pros: Fastest way to get cash, no questions asked.
- Cons: Lowest prices, potential for exploitation.
Pawn shops are generally a last resort if you need immediate cash and aren’t concerned about maximizing your return.
Scrap Yards: The Final Option
If your mower is completely unusable, a scrap yard may be your only option. You’ll receive payment based on the weight of the metal.
- Pros: Environmentally responsible, avoids landfill disposal.
- Cons: Minimal financial return.
Check with local scrap yards for their current metal prices. Disassemble the mower as much as possible to remove any non-metal components, which may reduce the price they offer.
Consignment: Let Someone Else Do the Work
Some businesses specialize in selling used equipment on consignment. They handle the listing, marketing, and sales process, taking a percentage of the final sale price.
- Pros: Hands-off approach, potentially higher price than selling to a repair shop.
- Cons: Commission fees, requires trusting the consignment business.
Research local consignment businesses carefully and review their terms and conditions before entrusting them with your mower.
Preparing Your Lawn Mower for Sale: Maximizing Your Return
Whether you’re selling online or to a repair shop, taking the time to prepare your mower can significantly increase its value and appeal.
Cleaning: First Impressions Matter
A clean mower is always more appealing than a dirty one. Remove dirt, grass clippings, and debris from the engine, deck, and wheels. A simple wash with soap and water can make a big difference.
Basic Repairs: Addressing Minor Issues
Addressing minor issues, such as replacing a spark plug, sharpening the blade, or tightening loose bolts, can significantly improve the mower’s performance and value.
Oil Change: A Sign of Good Maintenance
Changing the oil is a relatively inexpensive task that demonstrates good maintenance and can instill confidence in potential buyers.
Tire Inflation: Ensuring Proper Functionality
Ensure the tires are properly inflated. This is a simple task that improves the mower’s handling and appearance.
Honest Description: Building Trust
Be honest about the mower’s condition and any known issues. Transparency builds trust and avoids potential disputes later.
Pricing Your Lawn Mower: Finding the Sweet Spot
Setting the right price is crucial to selling your lawn mower quickly and for a fair price. Research comparable listings online to get a sense of the market value. Consider the mower’s condition, age, and features when determining your asking price. Be prepared to negotiate.
Factors influencing pricing:
- Comparable Listings: Check online marketplaces for similar mowers in your area.
- Condition: Adjust the price based on the mower’s condition.
- Negotiation: Be prepared to haggle with potential buyers.
Environmental Considerations: The Responsible Approach
Selling or recycling your old lawn mower is a more environmentally responsible option than simply throwing it away. Landfills are already overflowing, and lawn mowers contain materials that can be recycled. By giving your old mower a second life, you’re reducing waste and conserving resources. Consider the environmental implications of your choices.
Beyond the Sale: Alternative Uses for Old Lawn Mower Parts
Even if your lawn mower is beyond repair, you might be able to repurpose some of its parts. The engine can be used for various projects, such as building a go-kart or powering a small generator. The wheels can be used for garden carts or other DIY projects. Get creative and find new uses for these discarded parts.
Final Thoughts: Turning Trash into Treasure
Selling an old lawn mower is a viable way to make some extra money and declutter your garage. By understanding the factors that influence its value, exploring your selling options, and preparing your mower for sale, you can maximize your return and find a new home for your old machine. Remember to be honest, transparent, and environmentally conscious throughout the process. Turning trash into treasure benefits both you and the planet. Don’t let that old mower gather dust – give it a second chance!
Can I really make money selling my old lawn mower?
Yes, you absolutely can! Even if your lawn mower is no longer running or is significantly damaged, there are avenues for turning it into cash. The value will depend on several factors, including the mower’s condition, brand, age, and type (gas, electric, riding, push). Don’t immediately assume it’s worthless; someone might need parts, or they might be able to repair it for resale.
Consider exploring options like selling it for scrap metal, listing it online for parts or repair, or donating it to a charitable organization that accepts such donations. The demand for used lawn mower parts and serviceable mowers remains consistently strong, especially during peak lawn care seasons. Don’t let that old mower clutter your shed when it could be earning you money or helping someone else.
What are the best places to sell my used lawn mower?
Several online platforms cater to used equipment and local sales. Sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay are popular options for reaching a wide audience. Be sure to take clear, well-lit photos and write detailed descriptions highlighting the mower’s condition, any known issues, and the reason for selling.
Alternatively, consider contacting local lawn mower repair shops or scrap metal recyclers. Repair shops might be interested in buying your mower for parts, while recyclers will pay you for the metal components. Don’t hesitate to call around and compare offers to ensure you’re getting the best possible price. Local community bulletin boards or classified ads can also be effective for reaching potential buyers in your area.
How much can I expect to get for my old lawn mower?
The amount you can earn varies greatly. A fully functional, well-maintained lawn mower from a reputable brand can fetch a reasonable price, sometimes even a few hundred dollars. However, a non-working or heavily damaged mower will likely only be worth its weight in scrap metal, which might be just a few dollars.
Consider the cost of repairs when setting your price. If it needs a significant amount of work, be prepared to accept a lower offer. Research similar mowers being sold in your area to get a sense of the current market value. Being realistic about your mower’s condition and value will increase your chances of a successful sale.
What if my lawn mower is completely broken and unusable?
Even a completely broken lawn mower still holds value. The metal components can be recycled for scrap. Contact local scrap metal recyclers to inquire about their current rates for ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Disassemble the mower to separate the different metals, as some recyclers pay more for sorted materials.
Additionally, certain parts, even from a broken mower, might be valuable to repair shops or hobbyists. Consider listing these parts individually online or contacting a repair shop to see if they’re interested. While the payout won’t be substantial, recycling or selling parts is still a more environmentally friendly and potentially profitable option than simply throwing the mower away.
Do electric lawn mowers have any resale value?
Yes, electric lawn mowers can have resale value, although it often depends on the battery’s condition. If the battery is still holding a good charge and the mower is in good working order, you can sell it similarly to a gas-powered mower. List the battery’s age and performance in your description.
If the battery is dead or significantly weakened, the mower’s value decreases considerably. However, the mower itself might still be valuable to someone who needs a replacement or has a compatible battery. Alternatively, the electric motor and other components can potentially be salvaged for parts.
Are there any environmental benefits to selling or recycling my old lawn mower?
Absolutely! Selling or recycling your old lawn mower is a far more environmentally responsible choice than sending it to a landfill. Landfilling mowers contributes to soil contamination and takes up valuable space. Recycling the metal components allows them to be reused, reducing the need for mining new materials.
By selling your mower, you’re extending its lifespan and preventing the manufacturing of a new one. This conserves resources and reduces the carbon footprint associated with production and transportation. Choosing to recycle also minimizes the potential for hazardous materials, such as oil and gasoline, to leak into the environment.
What should I do to prepare my lawn mower for sale?
Preparation is key to maximizing your mower’s sale price. Start by thoroughly cleaning the mower, removing any dirt, grass clippings, and debris. A clean mower presents much better and makes it easier for potential buyers to assess its condition. Drain any remaining gasoline or oil from the mower to prevent spills during transport.
Next, take clear and well-lit photos from multiple angles, highlighting both the mower’s strengths and any areas of damage or wear. Write a detailed and honest description, including the make, model, age, and any known issues. Be upfront about any repairs needed to build trust with potential buyers and avoid future disputes.