You're probably one of the Cub Cadet owners who experiences a blinking oil light, and you're worried because you don't know why and what to do. Worry no more because you're in the right place. We have researched this concern to bring you an answer.
The blinking of the oil light signal indicates that the oil level is low or needs an oil change. You can fix this issue by either filling up the oil to the full mark or changing the engine oil.
There are a few steps to fixing the blinking oil light issue on your Cub Cadet. Keep reading as we go through them in this post.
Why Does My Cub Cadet Oil Light Blinking?
When you're in the middle of working with your Cub Cadet and notice that the oil light is flickering, it means that the engine oil level is low. Additionally, if an audio alarm accompanies the blinking, then the oil level might be critically low. If this happens, you need to stop the engine immediately.
Moreover, if you notice that the blinking happens while the oil tank is still full, then there is a tendency for an oil change. If the oil is changed, its level is at the full mark, and the blinking persists, then something must be wrong with the sensor.
If you still insist on using your Cub Cadet while the oil light blinks, it can seriously damage your engine. It will be better to call a professional mechanic to fix it.
How Do You Fix A Blinking Oil Light?
Learning what to do with the blinking oil light on your Cub Cadet lawn mower can help you avoid costly repairs. Here are some things you can do to fix this:
Add Oil
Modern models of engines have oil level indicators. This serves as a signal for the owners to know that the engine is low on oil. One of the solutions to this problem is adding oil to the engine. You need to fill the engine with oil up to the full mark on the dipstick. If the light blinks after adding oil, there can be a more serious engine issue.
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Change Oil
There are instances when the engine's oil level is good, but the oil light is still blinking. If this happens, a change oil is needed. Unclean oil can be due to a dirty oil filter.
Changing oils still depends on the model of the machine. You can check the manufacturer's guide if you're unsure how to do it. However, here are some common steps on how to change the oil in your Cub Cadet lawn mower:
- Prepare your Cub Cadet lawn mower and place it on a flat and dry surface. Make sure to turn off the mower and that the engine is cool.
- Place a piece of cardboard underneath the work area to catch oil leaks. As for the used oil, you need to use an approved oil basin.
- Using a rag or a towel, clean the oil fill and drain areas. This is to prevent any debris from entering the engine.
- Place the drain hose over the oil basin and start draining the oil by removing the drain plug. Make sure to give ample time for the oil to drain.
- If the draining is complete, you can now reinstall the drain plug. Untighten the oil filter using a wrench. Don't forget to keep the work area clean, especially around the engine.
- In replacing the oil filter, it will be a great help if you put a small amount of oil on the lid of the new oil filter.
- Attach the new oil filter and put the new oil into the engine. Check your manufacturer's guide for the recommended oil levels.
- Lastly, clean the work area. Make sure that all the spilled and used oils are disposed of properly.
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How To Reset The Blinking Oil Light In A Cub Cadet?
The blinking oil light on your Cub Cadet lawn mower can be very distracting when working. So the question now is, how do you reset the blinking lights?
There is no method for manually resetting a Cub Cadet lawn mower. All you need to do is wait. The oil light display will automatically reset to normal after two hours between maintenance time.
Can I Use Synthetic Oil On My Cub Cadet?
Synthetic oils are lubricants made of chemical components that are produced synthetically. They improve the fuel consumption of engines. It is acceptable to use synthetic oil, but it must be combined in the precise proportions required for the engine. You should not follow any instructions on the oil package that says otherwise.
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How Much Oil Does A Cub Cadet Need?
A Cub Cadet lawn mower uses both gasoline and motor oil to operate. Regular maintenance of this engine includes the correct amount and type of oil.
The recommended amount of oil for a Cub Cadet lawn mower is three pints, which equals one bottle of oil. However, always check with your operator's manual because engine oil capacity varies depending on the model.
Can You Use Car Oil In A Lawn Mower?
All engines need oil for better performance. This is to lubricate the engine before using the mower. However, different engines require various types of oil.
You can use car oil as an alternative, depending on the model of your mower. Old lawn mower models need special oil specifically made for them. You can use some of the better automobile oils in your mower if it has one of the more recent four-stroke engines.
Can I Drive With Flashing Oil Light?
Since flickering oil lights signal that your engine's oil level is low, driving it while the signal is on is not safe. If you continue doing so, it may pose serious damage to your engine or lead the engine to quit eventually. If you're unsure whether to use the engine, it will be best to have your automobile inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
What Causes A Cub Cadet Not To Start?
It's very inconvenient when your Cub Cadet lawn mower suddenly fails to start when you're ready to trim the lawn. What causes your lawn mower not to start?
Here are some of the most common causes why your Cub Cadet won't start:
Old Or No Fuel On The Engine
Engines fuel can last for only 30 days. If you're not using the engine for that period, the fuel might lose its volatility leading to not combusting.
Quick fix: Drain the old fuel and replace it with new fuel. In this way, the fuel will be fresh enough to combust.
Fuel Accessories Are Clogged
If fuel was kept within the machine for a long time, the old fuel mixture might have clogged up the areas like the fuel lines and metering needles.
Quick fix: Clean the carburetor and other fuel accessories and ensure they're not clogged before reinstalling. You can call a professional to do this work.
Faulty Spark Plug
One common cause of the Cub Cadet not starting is a faulty or fouled spark plug. The carbon build-up is normal, but you need to set a schedule to clean them as they may be one of the causes for your mower not starting.
Quick fix: You have to have regular maintenance or replace the spark plug if needed.
Failed Ignition Coil
If you insert your key and start the engine, nothing happens. There must be wrong with your ignition coil. Although this is unusual, it does occur from time to time.
Quick fix: Use a multimeter to test the ignition switch. If the ignition coil is faulty, you have to replace it. If the engine still doesn't start, you need to go back to your operator's manual and check if you are correctly following the procedures.
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Conclusion
Signal lights on any engine are essential. The blinking oil light signals that your Cub Cadet's oil level is low and will let you know when to check on them.
Follow the aforementioned repair solutions to use your lawn mower at the best performance possible. Check the manufacturer's manual before starting to repair since the instructions may vary depending on the model. If you're unsure what to do, it is best to call a professional to do it.
If you find this article helpful, be sure to check out these other posts that may interest you:
Cub Cadet Belt Keeps Coming Off – Why And What To Do?
Cub Cadet Blowing White Smoke – Why And What To Do?