5 Most Common DeWalt String Trimmer Problems (Troubleshooting)

Gardening is never easy, even when you have years of experience. However, with the right tools, the job can become more enjoyable.

Brands like Ryobi and DeWalt have been helping gardeners with a variety of trimmers and gardening equipment. These devices will help you maintain an aesthetic garden.

String trimmers are handy tools that are used to trim grass in places where a lawnmower has difficulty reaching. These places include grass near fences or near shrubs and plants. You can also use the tool to clear out the edges in a more effective way.

Most Common DeWalt String Trimmer Problems

Although DeWalt is one of the most popular providers of tools like string trimmers, certain users don’t seem to have a good experience with their products.

These users have mentioned experiencing all kinds of problems with their DeWalt string trimmers.

If you have also ended up facing a common problem with their string trimmers, then you have come to the right place!

Using the article, we will be giving you a list of troubleshooting steps through which you can easily resolve the problem for good! All of them are mentioned below:

1. String Trimmer Won’t Start

This is one of the most common issues that you are bound to run into if you are using the DeWalt string trimmer.

Most users who end up with this issue are no longer able to start up their string trimmer. Due to the tool not turning on, they can’t use it in any way possible.

Luckily, there are a few things that you can check. We recommend that you start by checking the batteries of the string trimmer. Batteries that have gone bad could be the cause behind the trimmer not turning on.

You can further check this by simply swapping the batteries or trying them in a different tool.

Similarly, the battery charger is another thing you should get checked. It might not be charging the batteries, due to which the trimmer might not be getting any power at all.

If you notice all of them to be working perfectly fine, then you might need to call in a professional.

2. Unit Will Shut Down During Use

There’s nothing more annoying than to have your unit suddenly shut down during use.

In case you are experiencing the same thing with the string trimmer, then you should first check the batteries first. They are the main source of power for the trimmer.

You should also check if there is any kind of debris around the spool, as it might also cause the same issue.

Also, check if someone has removed the guard from the string trimmer. If so, then you will have to reinstall the guard on the trimmer.

One last thing you can do is to try and reduce the limit of the trimmer to 13 inches (which should be 330 mm) MAX.

3. Unit Runs Slowly

Another common issue with these string trimmers, in particular, is that they won’t operate at full speed. Instead, they run at a really slow speed and are not able to fully cut or trim the grass.

In this case, the first thing we recommend you do is to depress the variable speed trigger. The level at which the trigger has been set directly affects the unit’s speed.

Try checking the spool and make sure that it can fully rotate without any kind of interruption. Try cleaning it but do be careful so as not to cause any damage to the unit or to yourself.

Additionally, also check if the cutting lines do not protrude any more than 4-13/16” (122 MM) from the spool. If it is, then you will have to cut it in a way that barely reaches the trimming blade.

4. Excessive Noise & Poor Handling

Over time the performance of the unit can decrease by a decent margin if you don’t keep track of the maintenance.

Many owners complain about there being excessive noise and poor handling from this device. So, if you’re in the same boat, check the condition of the spool.

If the spool is damaged, you will have to get a fresh replacement for your trimmer. However, the problem might just be with the line length.

So, if the line is a bit short, make sure to replace the line. Ideally, that will be enough to help you through minor vibration issues.

You should also consider the jamming situation in the head section. If you’ve not cleaned the unit in a while, then the problem is likely with the head being clogged up by gunk.

So, you need to remove this gunk and then recheck the response from your smart unit.

5. String Issues

The problems with the DeWalt trimmer string are not that rare. You will get uneven cuts, high disturbance, and poor trimming performance from this device when the string is not in good condition.

The most common reason behind this issue is that owners are relying on cheaper string brands.

If you’re also trying to save on a bit of cash, try to go with a more reliable unit. Going with an off-brand replacement will only create more issues.

So, try to find the right string for your DeWalt system and manage the length accordingly. From there, you won’t have to worry about any string errors.

Is DeWalt A Good Brand?

When you’re talking about the best power tools on the market, DeWalt will always be a part of that conversation. This brand is simply better than the majority of other devices on the market.

You will enjoy years of consistent performance and improved handling.

So, Yes! DeWalt is a good friend. In fact, it might just be the perfect brand for your DIY projects. The power and the battery capacity for its devices are top of the line.

You will get close to an hour of uptime with the trimmer. However, that can vary a bit depending on the environment.

Similarly, you will get at least a year of component warranty for your devices. Moreover, some units also bring close to five years of consistent support. So, your purchase is completely secure with this brand.

Is This Trimmer Better Than Ryobi?

While the customer response on the DeWalt systems is pretty great, you will find Ryobi to be more exceptional.

The Ryobi units specialize in garden maintenance and will optimize your control over the length of the grass in your yard. So, if you’re not worried about the device, Ryobi is the unit for you.

DeWalt is undoubtedly the best brand when it comes to power tools. However, gardening equipment is an entirely different segment.

Ryobi will suit you far better, and you won’t have to deal with as many clogging errors. Moreover, it is pretty easy to use this unit when compared with DeWalt.

The only upside that you will realize with DeWalt over the Ryobi system is the price point. Other than that, Ryobi is the superior trimmer in all segments. You can seek further support from a local contractor, and they will point you in the right direction.

The Bottom Line:

Facing problems with the DeWalt string trimmer? The article discusses the most common problems that you might end up facing with the string trimmer.

Furthermore, we have also attached all the possible troubleshooting methods for each and every single problem mentioned.

If you’re not sold on the DeWalt trimmer after going through these fixes, then it might be a good idea to check the Ryobi system. This brand is far better in terms of performance and consistency. However, the pricing can be a bit high.

This increased price is supported by increased performance and consistent cleaning cycles.

The best thing about Ryobi is that you won’t have to deal with debris flying out everywhere, so if you want a unit that will serve you for years, Ryobi is the brand for you.

With that said, we highly recommend that you follow every piece of instruction written in the article for effective troubleshooting. Also, in case of any confusion, all you have to do is to leave down a comment below!