WORX 40V Mower Problems | Troubleshooting Guide
WORX offers budget-friendly battery mowers featuring their Intellicut technology that adjusts power based on grass conditions. While affordable, these mowers develop specific issues. This guide covers common WORX 40V mower problems and solutions.
Table of Contents
- Model Overview
- Battery Issues
- Motor Problems
- Intellicut System
- Cutting Performance
- Maintenance Guide
Model Overview
WORX 40V mower models:
| Model | Cut Width | Drive | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| WG743 | 17” | Push | 2x 20V batteries |
| WG751 | 20” | Push | 2x 20V batteries |
| WG779 | 14” | Push | Compact, 40V single |
| WG753 | 21” | Push | Intellicut |
[NEED REAL IMAGE: WORX 40V mower showing battery compartment]
WORX Power Share: Many WORX 40V tools use two 20V batteries together. Batteries interchange across the WORX 20V/40V ecosystem.
Battery Issues
Mower Won’t Start
Check first:
- Both batteries installed (for dual-battery models)
- Batteries charged (check LED indicators)
- Safety key inserted (required on most models)
- Bail engaged before start button
If still no power:
- Remove batteries, wait 30 seconds, reinstall
- Clean battery contacts with dry cloth
- Try known-good batteries
- Check for debris in battery slots
Short Runtime
Expected runtime varies by model:
- WG743 (2x 4.0Ah): 30-40 minutes
- WG751 (2x 4.0Ah): 25-35 minutes
- Higher capacity batteries extend runtime
If runtime drastically reduced:
- Battery age (capacity decreases over years)
- Grass conditions (tall/thick grass draws more)
- Blade sharpness (dull blade increases load)
- Intellicut mode (turbo uses more power)
Batteries Not Charging
WORX charger troubleshooting:
- Check outlet power
- Clean battery and charger contacts
- Allow battery to reach room temperature
- Try different charger if available
LED indicators:
- Solid red = charging
- Solid green = full
- Flashing = error or temperature issue
One Battery Drains Faster
On dual-battery models, batteries should drain roughly equally.
If one drains much faster:
- Check battery health on both
- Clean all contacts
- Try batteries in opposite positions
- One battery may be failing
Motor Problems
Motor Won’t Engage
When button pressed, nothing happens:
- Verify safety key inserted
- Check bail engaged
- Ensure both batteries installed
- Look for error lights on display
If click but no spin:
- Blade may be jammed
- Motor overload triggered
- Controller fault
Reduced Motor Power
Motor seems weak:
- Charge batteries fully
- Switch Intellicut to turbo mode
- Sharpen blade
- Clean deck (buildup reduces efficiency)
Motor Overheating
Symptoms: Mower shuts off mid-use.
Thermal protection triggers when:
- Grass too tall/thick
- Ambient temperature high
- Blade dull (motor works harder)
- Mowing too fast
Allow 10-15 minutes to cool. Prevent by:
- Raising cutting height
- Making multiple passes
- Mowing during cooler hours
- Keeping blade sharp
Strange Motor Sounds
Normal: Electric whine under load Abnormal: Grinding, scraping or rattling
For abnormal sounds:
- Check for debris in deck
- Inspect blade for damage
- Verify blade bolt tight
- Motor bearing may be failing
Intellicut System
WORX Intellicut automatically adjusts motor power based on grass thickness.
Intellicut Not Responding
Symptoms: No power variation in different grass.
Check:
- Verify Intellicut enabled (not in manual mode)
- Sensors may need cleaning
- Firmware update may help
- Sensor failure possible
Intellicut Too Aggressive
Motor constantly boosting:
- Grass may be uniformly thick
- Lower cutting height increases load
- Dull blade triggers boost constantly
Switching to Manual Mode
Some users prefer consistent power. If your model allows:
- Access mode setting (button or display)
- Select desired power level
- Manual mode disables auto-adjustment
Cutting Performance
Uneven Cut
Check:
- All wheels at same height setting
- Blade condition (bent, damaged?)
- Deck level (should be slightly nose-down)
- Consistent walking speed
Poor Mulching
WORX mulching improvements:
- Sharpen blade - critical for mulching
- Mow dry grass only
- Don’t remove more than 1/3 of height
- Slow down in thick areas
- Clean deck regularly
Scalping
Mower cutting too low in spots:
- Raise overall cutting height
- Slow down over uneven ground
- Level low spots in lawn
- Check for bent blade
Discharge/Bagging Issues
If side discharge clogs:
- Grass too tall or wet
- Blade dull
- Moving too fast
- Discharge chute blocked
If bag doesn’t fill:
- Remove mulch plug
- Verify bag installed correctly
- Clean chute area
- Check bag for holes
Maintenance Guide
After Each Use
- Remove debris from deck
- Clean battery contacts if dirty
- Store batteries at room temperature
Weekly (During Season)
- Inspect blade for damage
- Clean deck underside
- Check wheel operation
Monthly
- Sharpen blade or inspect closely
- Deep clean mower
- Lubricate any pivot points
- Check all fasteners
Storage
- Clean thoroughly
- Store batteries at 40-50% charge
- Keep indoors (not freezing garage)
- Charge batteries every 2-3 months
Troubleshooting Specific Issues
Mower Stops Randomly
Possible causes:
- Thermal shutdown - Motor overheated
- Battery depleted - Check charge level
- Overload protection - Blade hit object
- Loose battery - Check connection
Height Adjustment Won’t Stay
If cutting height changes on its own:
- Height lever mechanism worn
- Spring broken
- Detent positions damaged
- May need replacement part
Wheels Don’t Roll Smoothly
Check:
- Debris around wheels/axles
- Bearing condition
- Height adjustment mechanism
- May need lubrication
Common Parts
| Part | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Blade (17”) | WA0034 | $15-22 |
| Blade (20”) | WA0027 | $18-25 |
| 4.0Ah Battery | WA3578 | $89-109 |
| 2.0Ah Battery | WA3575 | $49-69 |
| Charger | WA3875 | $39-59 |
Warranty Information
WORX warranty:
- 3 years on tool
- 2 years on battery
Covered: Manufacturing defects, motor/electrical failure Not covered: Normal wear, abuse, commercial use
Frequently Asked Questions
How does WORX compare to EGO or Greenworks?
WORX is more budget-oriented. Quality is decent but not premium. Good for smaller lawns and light use.
Can I use my 20V batteries?
Yes, two 20V batteries create 40V. This is the WORX Power Share system. Single 40V batteries also work where applicable.
Is Intellicut worth it?
It extends battery life by reducing power when not needed. Useful for varied grass conditions.
How long do WORX batteries last?
Expect 2-4 years depending on use and care. Store properly for best lifespan.
WORX mowers offer good value for budget shoppers. Keep the blade sharp, batteries maintained and deck clean for reliable performance.