Cutting System Blocked - Automower Blades Not Spinning

Very Common Easy to Fix Low Cost 5-30 Minutes
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Problem: The error message "Cutting system blocked" appears on the display and the Automower stops working. The cutting disc no longer rotates or only rotates to a limited extent. Often grass or cord wraps around the blade disc.

Problem Description

The error message "Cutting system blocked" appears on the display and the Automower stops working. The cutting disc no longer rotates or only rotates to a limited extent. This problem occurs particularly frequently with tall or wet grass. Often grass, cord, or other material wraps around the blade disc, blocking the drive.

Affected Models: All models, especially common with 310, 315, 420, 430X

Possible Causes

  1. Grass or cords wrapped around cutting disc (90% of cases) – The most common problem with this error
  2. Grass too tall for set cutting height – Cutting system overload
  3. Mower drives over obstacles – Tree roots, trampoline legs, or other objects cause blockage
  4. Slope too steep for the model – Mower reaches its limits
  5. Defective blade motor (rare) – Mechanical damage to the drive

Step-by-Step Solutions

SAFETY WARNING: Always wear work gloves! The blades are extremely sharp and can cause severe cuts. Always turn off the mower completely before turning it over.

Solution 1: Clean Cutting System

Time Required: 5-10 minutes

  1. Turn off the mower (press STOP button) and carefully turn it over
  2. Use a brush to remove grass residue from the cutting deck
  3. Carefully remove cords or wrapped grass from the cutting disc
  4. Thoroughly clean the area between chassis and housing
  5. Check if the cutting disc rotates freely (turn by hand)
  6. Turn the mower back over and restart
Tools Needed: Work gloves (mandatory!), brush, screwdriver if needed, cloth
Tip: Clean the cutting deck after each mowing session in wet conditions. This prevents grass buildup before it becomes a problem.

Solution 2: Adjust Cutting Height

Time Required: 2-3 minutes

  1. If grass is taller than 10 cm: Set cutting height to maximum (5-6 cm)
  2. Reduce height gradually over several days
  3. Use the "Spiral cut" function for tall grass (can be activated in Automower Connect app)
  4. Let the mower run daily to keep grass consistently short
Important: Never mow more than 1/3 of the grass height at once. This not only overloads the mower but also damages the lawn. It's better to reach the desired height in multiple passes.

Solution 3: Isolate Problem Areas

Time Required: 10-20 minutes

  1. Identify spots where the mower frequently gets stuck
  2. Create islands around tree roots or trampoline legs using boundary wire
  3. Use boundary wire to exclude steep slopes
  4. Check the maximum slope for your model (see manual):
    • 305/310: max. 25%
    • 315/320: max. 35%
    • 420/430X/440: max. 45%
    • 450X: max. 45%

When Should You Consult a Professional?

If the cutting disc does not rotate freely even after thorough cleaning, the blade motor or blade disc may be defective. With recurring problems despite correct cutting height and clean cutting deck, a workshop inspection is advisable. Also, if you hear unusual noises from the cutting system, do not continue operating the mower.

We offer professional diagnostics and stock all spare parts for the cutting system: blade discs, cutting discs, blade motors, and individual blades.

Preventive Measures

  • Clean cutting deck weekly – Especially in wet weather and spring/autumn
  • Keep grass short – Daily mowing prevents overload
  • Adjust cutting height seasonally – Start higher in spring, reduce in summer
  • Tidy up garden – Don't leave cords, ropes, or toys in mowing area
  • Check blades regularly – Replace dull or damaged blades
  • Check after garden work – Especially after scarifying or fertilizing
Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality original blades. Cheap replicas are often not balanced, leading to stronger vibrations and faster wear. Original Husqvarna blades cost only a few euros and last significantly longer.

Need Spare Parts for the Cutting System?

Blade discs, cutting discs, blade motors, and original blades for all Automower models can be found in our shop. If you have questions about repairs, we're happy to help.

Contact Us Now View Spare Parts
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