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Averaging around 100 hours on my mower each season, I have always changed the oil and filter at the end of the season before winterizing my machine. I have never had an oil related problem but recently an acquaintance insisted that the oil should be changed at the beginning of the season because oil changed at the end of the season is subject to collecting impurities while sitting unused over the winter.

Is there any evidence that either choice is best or is it more a personal choice?

The only significant "impurities" the crankcase oil may collect is water vapour.
The next time you use the machine AND it gets to its loaded (working) running temperature, for at least 30 minutes, the water vapour will be driven off.

I live in Australia (opposite seasons to you). I have always done my annual small motor servicing, between Christmas & New Year - annual summer holidays BUT about mid season grass growing . Works for me!

I prefer beginning of season. I also check the shroud and cooling fins to make sure Micky & Minnie haven't moved in.

Hello N.,

I have been servicing my equipment at the beginning of the cutting season for many years.

It also provides an opportune time to address any little problems and correct them before they become big ones.