🔁 Repair vs replace calculator
Got a quote from a shop? Enter the number below and find out whether repairing is the smart call, whether you should get a second opinion, or whether the money is better spent on a new unit.
Enter the repair quote you received
to see your recommendation.
Replacement ranges are typical US retail prices for consumer-grade equipment. Commercial, zero-turn, and standby units vary widely. Always confirm major repairs with a written estimate.
Repair vs replace — common questions
When is it not worth repairing a lawn mower?
The standard rule of thumb: if the repair costs more than 50% of what a comparable new mower costs, replacement usually wins — especially on a unit older than 8–10 years. A seized engine, cracked deck, or transmission failure on an older push mower almost never makes economic sense to repair.
Should I get a second opinion on a repair quote?
Yes, any time a repair quote reaches 40–75% of replacement cost. Diagnostic fees at a second shop typically run $25–$50, which is a small cost compared to authorizing an expensive repair that could have been quoted lower elsewhere. Most shops apply the diagnostic fee toward the repair if you proceed.
Does commercial use change the repair vs replace math?
Significantly. Commercial operators account for downtime cost, which can exceed the repair cost itself. A $400 repair on a $800 mower is a bad deal for a homeowner but a reasonable choice for a landscaper who would otherwise lose a week of revenue. Commercial equipment also tends to be built for higher-cost repair, with more rebuildable parts.
What does "get a second quote" mean in practice?
Find a second independent small engine shop, describe the exact problem, and ask for their diagnostic fee and estimate. You do not need to tell them what the first shop quoted. Compare both estimates — if they are close, the first quote is probably fair. If they differ by more than 30–40%, ask each shop to itemize labor vs parts.
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