As the mowing season winds down and the nights draw in, it’s tempting to park up the mower, lock the shed and forget about it until spring. But with grass still growing in many parts of the UK well into autumn, your equipment may have seen more action this year than expected.
Before the season truly ends, it’s worth taking stock. The final cut is not only about tidying up the turf, but also about making sure your machinery is properly cared for before it goes into hibernation. A little attention now can prevent headaches, downtime and repair bills when the grass starts growing again next year.
The Hidden Strain of a Long Season
Across the country, councils, contractors and grounds teams have been working through one of the longest growing seasons in recent memory. With reduced mowing frequencies in many rural and municipal areas, machines are expected to do more in fewer passes, often tackling heavier, wetter growth.
That combination of extended use and tougher conditions means extra wear on engines, blades, belts and bearings. The end of the season is the ideal moment to take stock of your fleet’s condition and plan any necessary servicing or repairs before winter storage.
As the saying goes, “the hardest miles are the last ones”, and it’s usually the best-performing machines that have worked the hardest.
Why End-of-Season Maintenance Pays Off
Routine servicing at the end of the season delivers several practical benefits:
- Prevents long-term damage: Cleaning and drying components helps stop corrosion, especially on metal parts exposed to damp or grass acids.
- Saves time in spring: Machines that are serviced and ready to go avoid the early-season rush at workshops.
- Improves reliability: Issues spotted early can be fixed before they turn into expensive breakdowns.
- Extends machine life: Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and protects your investment.
In short, proper servicing now saves time, money and frustration later.
Your End-of-Season Checklist
Here’s a quick guide to preparing your mowing and turf-care machinery for winter:
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Clean thoroughly
Remove all grass build-up from the deck, chassis and blades. Moisture and grass residue left over winter can lead to rust and blockages. -
Inspect and sharpen blades
Dull or damaged blades stress both the grass and the machine. Sharpen or replace them now so they’re ready for spring. -
Change oil and filters
Dirty oil contains contaminants that can harm the engine if left standing. Drain and replace the oil and air filters to ensure a clean start next season. -
Check belts, cables and fasteners
Look for wear, cracks or slackness. Replace any parts that show signs of fatigue. -
Service the battery
Charge fully before storage, or use a trickle charger. A flat or corroded battery is a common reason for start-up trouble in spring. -
Fuel management
Drain the tank or add a stabiliser to prevent fuel degradation over the winter months. -
Store correctly
Keep equipment under cover in a dry, well-ventilated space. Where possible, cover with a breathable sheet rather than plastic to avoid trapping moisture.
Book Servicing Early
Winter is a busy time for dealerships and service centres, so it pays to plan ahead. Booking an end-of-season service now ensures your machines receive the attention they deserve, without the rush and waiting lists that often appear in early spring.
Professional servicing doesn’t just tick boxes; it gives a trained technician the chance to identify underlying issues, replace worn components and fine-tune performance. For commercial operators, that reliability is crucial once contracts restart.
A Fresh Start for the New Season
End-of-season maintenance isn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it’s part of a sustainable maintenance cycle. By preserving machinery properly, you’re reducing waste, extending asset life and cutting the need for emergency repairs, all of which make sound financial and environmental sense.
So before you switch off the ignition for the last time this year, take a moment to give your machines the care they’ve earned. A few hours of attention now will ensure they’re ready to deliver their best again when spring arrives.
Because in turf care, a strong start begins with a good finish.
Book in with your local dealer today!