If your trimmer isn’t cutting clean or running right, bring it in if you notice:

• Hard starting / won’t stay running — only fires on choke, stalls when you squeeze the trigger

• Bogging in thicker branches — revs in the air but dies or slows under load

• Ragged, torn cuts — dull blades, poor blade set/clearance, or sap buildup

• Blades won’t move / stop intermittently — gearbox wear, clutch issues, or trigger/switch faults

• Clicking, grinding, or whining — dry/worn gears, bad bearings, or low grease in gear case

• Excessive vibration — bent blade, loose fasteners, or worn anti-vibe mounts

• Overheating or hot smell — clogged spark arrestor, lean carb settings, or resin-packed blades

• Fuel leaks / strong fuel odor — brittle lines, bad primer bulb, or tank grommet leak

• Safety problems — blade brake slow to stop, damaged guards, or sticking trigger

• Battery/cordless issues — short run time, won’t charge, or intermittent power

Catching problems early prevents costly damage (gearbox, piston/cylinder, blades) and keeps your trimmer cutting safely and cleanly.

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time for a tune-up or repair. Addressing problems early can prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of your string trimmer.