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HomeRepair HelpRepairPressure washer won't start Repair
Why Won't My Pressure Washer Start?
If your gas-powered pressure washer won't start, begin with the spark plug, the most likely cause. Inspect it for a cracked insulator, burned electrode, heavy carbon buildup, or no spark while the engine is cranking. If the plug is damaged or fails a spark plug tester, replace it. A clogged carburetor is another common reason a pressure washer is not starting, especially when stale or ethanol-blended fuel has been left in the carburetor during storage. Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner, or rebuild or replace it if cleaning does not restore fuel flow. If the spark plug works, test the ignition coil, which supplies voltage to the plug. A failed ignition coil can leave the pressure washer not turning on even when the engine cranks. Finally, inspect the flywheel key for damage, particularly if the engine stopped suddenly after striking a hard object. These checks address why your pressure washer will not start before replacing less likely parts. Whether you have a Craftsman, Ryobi, Honda, Briggs & Stratton, or another gas pressure washer, enter your model number to find the exact replacement spark plug, carburetor, ignition coil, or flywheel key for your machine.
01 - Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage. If the porcelain insulator is cracked, an electrode is burned away or damaged, or there is heavy carbon buildup at the electrode, replace the spark plug. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. You should see a strong spark between the tester’s terminals when the engine is cranking. If there is no spark, this indicates that the spark plug is defective and should be replaced.
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02 - Carburetor
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the pressure washer for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and prevent the engine from starting. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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03 - Ignition Coil
The ignition coil sends voltage to the spark plug while the engine is running. If the ignition coil is defective, the engine may not start. Before replacing the ignition coil, ensure that the spark plug is working properly. If you have confirmed that the spark plug is working properly, test the ignition coil with an ignition coil tester. If the ignition coil is defective, replace it.
Common
04 - Flywheel Key
the flywheel key might have sheared in half. The flywheel key is a small metal piece which fits into the crankshaft and engages with the flywheel. If the engine stops suddenly due to the pressure washer hitting a hard object, the flywheel key breaks in half to prevent damage to the engine. To determine if the flywheel key is broken, remove the flywheel from the engine and inspect the flywheel key. If the flywheel key is broken, replace it.
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my gas pressure washer start after sitting?
What should I check first when my pressure washer won't start but has no spark?
Can a broken flywheel key cause a pressure washer to start and stop or not start at all?
How do I find the correct pressure washer spark plug, carburetor, or ignition coil?
What safety steps should I take before repairing a pressure washer that won't start?
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