It’s essential to choose the right lawn mower oil type to maintain optimal performance and longevity, and reduce the risk of damaging the engine. This holds true whether you own a 2-stroke or 4-stroke lawn mower. JAK Max provides a choice of high-quality oils designed to meet the specific needs of different lawn mower engines. These are all reliable oils, but it’s important to understand the differences in oil types so that you can choose the right one for your model. Here’s a guide to what oil to use in a 4-stroke mower, and what is the best oil for 2-stroke lawn mowers.

Understanding Lawn Mower Engines

There are essentially two types of lawn mower engines: 4-stroke or 2-stroke. Each requires its own lawn mower oil type.  A 2-stroke engine combines oil with fuel in a single mixture that simultaneously powers the engine and lubricates it. It’s a simple design that helps to reduce weight. On the other hand, a 4-stroke engine contains separate compartments for oil and fuel. This improves fuel efficiency and also creates lower emissions.

What Oil to Use in a 4-Stroke Lawn Mower

Lawn mower oil type is especially important with a 4-stroke mower if you want to get the maximum performance from it and keep it operating optimally. The best oils for 4-stroke lawn mowers we recommend are 10W-30 and SAE 30. The 10W-30 lawn mower oil is more versatile across different conditions. It’s also suited to lower temperatures, as it provides better viscosity in cold weather. If you live in parts of Australia where the weather is unpredictable, like Melbourne, JAK Max’s 10W-30 multigrade 4 stroke mower oil provides very good temperature stability and lubrication for a wide variety of mowers in different weather conditions. It also complies with API SL/CF specifications.SAE 30 is designed for warmer temperatures. JAK Max offers high-performance 4-stroke mower oil that protects your engine against wear and tear, while keeping it clean at the same time. Our SAE 30 lawn mower oil is purpose-made to meet these requirements.

What Oil to Use in a 2-Stroke Lawn Mower

In order to operate properly, 2-stroke engines need to have a precise mixture of fuel and oil. A 2-stroke oil mix typically uses a ratio of 50:1 or 40:1, depending on the lawn mower model. It’s essential to use the right ratio for your model to ensure that it’s lubricated properly to prevent engine wear and tear or damage.

JAK Max can advise you on the correct oil to get. We have a selection of premium 2-stroke lawn mower oil types that provide excellent lubrication, reduce spark plug fouling and minimise exhaust fumes. Our synthetic 2-stroke oils contain a fuel stabiliser with a low ash additive compound that makes it ideal for oil-injected 2-stroke engines.

You should never use 4-stroke oil in a 2-stroke lawn mower engine. This can cause insufficient lubrication as well as an increased rate of carbon build-up, which could lead to engine failure. You should always only use oils specifically rated for 2-stroke engines.

Can I Use Car Oil in a Lawn Mower?

It’s not advisable to use car oil in your lawn mower, as they contain extra additives that are deleterious to these types of small engines. Using car oil in your lawn mower can increase carbon deposits and reduce your mower’s engine life. You should always use oils that have been specifically formulated for lawn mowers.

Signs You’re Using the Wrong Oil

You’ll know soon enough if you’re using the wrong oil for your lawn mower. The most common indications are reduced engine performance, overheating or smoke emission. You could also experience difficulty in starting your mower, and you could hear abnormal engine noises. These are all the result of the oil not providing enough lubrication, which increases friction between engine parts. If you notice any of these signs, immediately shut off your lawn mower and contact JAK Max. We’ll quickly sort you out with the correct oil that your specific engine needs.

How to Change Lawn Mower Oil

Mower maintenance is crucial to get the most longevity and performance from yours. You should regularly check your oil levels and change the oil so that your mower will continue to run efficiently. Here’s a short step-by-step guide on how to change lawn mower oil:

Step 1: Ensure your safety: Before you start changing the oil, make a few simple preparations. Place your mower on a flat surface and disconnect the spark plug wire. This will prevent the engine from starting accidentally while you’re working on it. If you need to change the oil during a mowing session, let the engine cool down completely before you do any of the above.

Step 2: Check the oil level: Look for an oil can symbol that denotes the oil fill cap and the dipstick. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean. Then insert it fully again and note the oil level. It should be between the minimum and maximum markers on the dipstick. If it’s below the minimum, you’ll need to top-up the oil.

Step 3: Draining the old oil: Place an oil pan underneath the engine and switch it on. Let the mower run for a few minutes. This warms the oil, which makes it easier to drain, as it’s less viscous. Then turn off the engine to start draining the oil. You can do this in two ways:

  • Using the drain plug: If your lawn mower model has a drain plug beneath it, you can simply remove it carefully and the oil will flow out into the oil pan.
  • Without a drain plug: If you don’t have a drain plug, make sure that the spark plug and the air filter are facing upwards, and then tilt the mower so that the oil flows out of the fill hole.

Step 4: Fill up with new oil: After you’ve drained all the oil, put the drain plug back on if you have one. Otherwise return the mower to a level position. Slowly pour in the new oil, regularly checking the dipstick level so that you don’t overfill it.

Step 5: Final checks: Once the oil container is full, close the oil cap and reconnect the spark plug wire. Then start your mower and let it idle for a few minutes. Turn it off and re-check the oil level to make sure you’ve filled it enough. Give it a last top-up if necessary.Tips for mixing 2-stroke oil: Since 2-stroke engines mix fuel with oil rather than feeding them in separately, you need to ensure that you combine them in the right ratio. Consult your user manual for this and then mix the specified amounts in a clean container. Shake it well afterwards to make sure that the mixture is consistent and uniform. JAK Max 2-stroke oils are designed for easy mixing for consistent engine performance. We can also advise you on how to mix your fuel and oil accurately.

Lawn Mower Oil Type FAQs

Can I use synthetic oil in my lawn mower?

Yes, synthetic oils are great for use in lawn mowers. They are especially formulated to provide excellent lubrication across a wide range of temperatures for both 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines.

What happens if I use the wrong oil?

Using the wrong oil can compromise or damage your lawn mower in several ways. It can cause increased engine wear, and even complete engine failure. You’ll also experience poor engine performance.

How often should I change lawn mower oil?

Generally speaking, we recommend that you change your lawn mower oil at least once per 25-50 hours of usage. The exact timing depends on your specific model, so check your manual. At a minimum, change your oil once during the mowing season.

Is 10W-30 the same as SAE 30?

No – these are two different lawn mower oil types. SAE 30 is a single grade oil that’s designed for use in warmer weather. 10W-30 is a multi-grade oil that works across varying temperatures, making it more versatile.

Final Tips and Takeaways

Before changing your lawn mower oil you should always check your user manual for the right type of oil to use, and what the oil change intervals are for your particular model. Engine health depends on always using clean, fresh oil. If you use the same oil for too long, it can become contaminated and negatively affect your engine. You should also drain the oil and store your mower properly when you don’t use it for long periods of time. 

JAK Max stocks a variety of high-quality lawn mower oils for 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines, providing reliable operation for homeowners and gardening enthusiasts. We also offer all manner of other lawn mower products and parts.