There’s nothing worse than gearing up to tackle a driveway with 10 inches of snow in the dead of winter only to find that your snow blower won’t start. Whether it’s been sitting idle since last winter or it suddenly stopped working, a non-starting snow blower can be frustrating. Fortunately, most common issues are easy to troubleshoot with a little know-how. If you're up for a little maintenance, we'll walk you through the most common causes so you can get your machine back in working order... and be ready for the next snowstorm.

Checking the Basics: Fuel, Spark, and Airflow

A snowblower’s engine requires three key elements to start: fuel, spark, and airflow. If any of these are missing, your machine won’t run.

  1. First, check your gas. Old or stale fuel is a common culprit, especially if it’s been sitting in the fuel tank since last season. Gasoline starts to break down after about 30 days, losing its ability to combust properly. If your snowblower has a fuel shutoff valve, make sure it’s open.
  2. Next, inspect the spark plug and spark plug wires. A worn or fouled spark plug may fail to ignite the gas. Remove the plug, clean it if you have a dirty spark plug, or replace it with the correct replacement spark plug if needed.
  3. Then, make sure that the air intake isn’t blocked. Dirty air filters or obstructions can prevent the engine from getting enough oxygen to start.

Mechanical Troubles That Could Be at Play

Sometimes, the problem goes beyond basic maintenance. Mechanical issues can also prevent your snow blower from starting.

  • If you have a battery-powered model, make sure the battery is fully charged and securely connected.
  • For pull-start models, inspect the recoil starter. A damaged or jammed starter rope might need replacing.
  • Another issue could be a clogged carburetor. When gas sits for long periods, it can leave behind a gummy residue that clogs the carburetor, preventing the fuel supply from reaching the engine. You might want to grab your carb cleaner and try cleaning or rebuilding the gummed-up carburetor to resolve this issue.
  • Finally, don’t forget to check the safety mechanisms. Many snow blowers have features like a safety key or a handlebar lever that must be engaged for the engine to start. If these are out of place, the machine may not start, even if everything else is in working order.

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Quick Fixes for Common Problems

Before calling a engine repair shop or replacing your machine, try these troubleshooting steps:

  • Replace old gas: Drain the gas tank and add clean, fresh fuel. Consider using a fuel additive or fuel stabilizer to prevent future issues.
  • Inspect the spark plug: Remove and clean the plug with a wire brush or replace it if it’s damaged or excessively worn. Also make sure you don't have any bad spark plug connections
  • Check the choke settings: Make sure the choke is in the "on" position for cold starts.
  • Prime the engine: If your snow blower has a flexible primer bulb, give it a few presses to help pull gas into the carburetor.
  • Examine the air filter: Clean or replace it if it’s dirty or clogged.
  • Look for fuel blockages: Inspect the gas lines, fuel filter, and carburetor for clogs or residue.
Electric snow blower in a residential neighborhood.
Sometimes the fix is easier than you think. Credit: Osarieme Eweka / Getty Images

FAQ

Why does my snow blower start but then stall?

This issue is often caused by a dirty carburetor, fuel filter, or fuel system. Residue from old gas can restrict fuel flow in the fuel lines, leading the engine to sputter and stall shortly after starting. Using a carburetor cleaner on the carburetor assembly or using a fuel additive, like a fuel system cleaner, can usually resolve the issue.

Lawn mower moves snow in a driveway.
Regular maintenance also helps keep your snowblower run well all season long. Credit: Toro

How often should I replace the spark plug in my snow thrower?

It’s a good idea to replace snowblower spark plug annually or after every 25 hours of use. Regular replacement ensures a strong spark for consistent starts and prevents wear-related issues.

Can cold weather affect my snow blower’s ability to start?

Yes, extremely cold temperatures can thicken engine oil and make it harder for the motor to turn over. Switching to a winter-grade engine oil or storing your snowblower in a warmer space can help combat this problem.