This is the question Paul gets asked most often: "Is it worth repairing, or should I just buy a new one?" His answer depends on the machine, the problem, and your situation — and he'll always give you an honest opinion.
Here's the framework Paul uses to advise customers.
The 50% Rule
As a general rule: if the repair cost exceeds 50% of what a comparable replacement would cost, it's usually better to replace. But this is a starting point, not a hard rule. There are important exceptions.
When Repair Almost Always Makes Sense
Simple wear items: - Spark plugs, air filters, fuel filters — always repair. These are consumables - Pull cord replacement — inexpensive and the machine is otherwise fine - Carburettor clean — the most common repair Paul does, and it brings machines back to life for a fraction of replacement cost - Blade sharpening or replacement — a new blade costs £15-30 vs £200+ for a new mower - Fuel line and primer bulb replacement — cheap parts, easy fix
Quality machines with minor issues: - A Honda, Stihl, or Husqvarna with a carburettor problem is almost always worth fixing. These machines are built to last 15-20 years, and the repair restores full functionality - A well-maintained ride-on mower with an electrical fault — the engine and deck might have years of life left
Paul's tip: "I never recommend scrapping a quality machine for a minor repair. I've serviced Honda mowers that are 25 years old and still cutting perfectly. You wouldn't scrap a car because it needed new brake pads."
When Replacement Makes More Sense
Catastrophic engine damage: - A seized engine (piston welded to bore) on a budget mower — the repair cost often exceeds the machine's value - A cracked engine block — not repairable - Crankshaft damage on a small domestic mower — replacement parts can exceed the machine's value
Obsolete or cheap machines: - Unbranded or budget machines where parts are unavailable or cost as much as a new machine - Machines with plastic decks that have cracked structurally — these can't be welded reliably
Multiple accumulated problems: - If a machine needs a new carburettor, blade, drive cable, AND wheels, the combined cost may justify replacement - If Paul finds one problem and then discovers three more underneath, he'll call you before proceeding
The Quality Factor
This is where the 50% rule needs adjusting:
A £500 Honda mower needing a £100 repair — always repair. You're restoring a machine built to last decades, and the replacement would cost £500+ for equivalent quality.
A £120 budget mower needing a £80 repair — probably replace. The machine was built to a price point and even after repair, other components may fail soon.
A £2000 ride-on mower needing a £300 repair — almost certainly repair. The engine, transmission, and deck represent significant value that a repair preserves.
What About Age?
Age alone doesn't determine whether to repair or replace. Paul regularly services machines from the 1990s that run perfectly. What matters is:
- Build quality — a 20-year-old Honda is better built than a brand-new budget mower
- Maintenance history — a well-maintained old machine is more reliable than a neglected new one
- Parts availability — if parts are readily available, age doesn't matter
- Structural condition — the deck, chassis, and main castings need to be sound
Paul's Honest Approach
Paul will always give you a straight answer. If a machine isn't worth repairing, he'll tell you before starting work — and he won't charge for the assessment. He'd rather save you money and earn your trust than do a repair that doesn't make financial sense.
If the repair does make sense, he'll quote it clearly before starting. No surprises, no hidden costs.
- Free assessment — Paul will look at your machine and give an honest opinion at no charge
- Clear quoting — you'll know the cost before any work begins
- No pressure — if it's not worth fixing, he'll say so
Want an honest opinion on your machine? Call 07342 239878 or WhatsApp Paul with details or photos.
