STIHL RM 248 Petrol Lawn Mower – 46cm Push Mower

Is the STIHL RM 248 right for your lawn?

The STIHL RM 248 Petrol Lawn Mower, also identified as the current RM 248.3 generation, is a 46 cm / 18-inch push mower for homeowners maintaining small to medium-sized lawns.

It combines a durable sheet-steel cutting deck with a 127 cm³ STIHL EVC 205.0 petrol engine, central cutting-height adjustment and a 52-litre grass collector. The mower can collect clippings, leave them behind, discharge them from the side or mulch them using the appropriate configuration.

The RM 248 is a push mower and does not have self-propelled wheel drive. It is therefore most appropriate for flat or reasonably level gardens where the user is comfortable pushing a 30 kg mower.

For sloping gardens, larger areas or customers who want the machine to drive itself, compare the STIHL RM 248 T self-propelled lawn mower.

STIHL RM 248 at a glance

Who should choose a push petrol lawn mower?

A push mower can be a sensible choice when your lawn is reasonably level and you do not need powered wheel drive. Removing the self-drive mechanism helps keep the purchase price lower while retaining the engine power and cutting width of a substantial petrol mower.

The RM 248 is particularly suitable when:

• Your lawn is mainly flat or has only gentle slopes
• You want a wider 46 cm cutting width
• You are comfortable manually pushing the mower
• You want petrol power without a cable or battery runtime limit
• You want to collect, mulch or side-discharge grass
• You prefer a steel cutting deck

It may not be the best choice when:

• Your garden contains significant slopes
• You have limited strength or mobility
• You regularly mow long grass on uneven ground
• You specifically want the mower to propel itself
• You want the lower noise and reduced maintenance of a cordless mower

46 cm cutting width for efficient mowing

The RM 248 has a 46 cm / 18-inch cutting width. This is wide enough to cover open lawn efficiently while remaining more manoeuvrable than larger 51–53 cm petrol mowers.

A 46 cm deck is a practical size for many family gardens because it reduces the number of passes needed compared with a compact mower but can still be guided around borders, trees and garden features.

STIHL states that the mower can cover up to approximately 1,200 m² on a full tank under suitable mowing conditions. This is an indicative maximum rather than a universal garden-size recommendation. Lawn layout, grass length, slopes, obstacles and the user’s willingness to push the machine should all be considered.

Four ways to mow

The STIHL RM 248 supports four different mowing methods, allowing the machine to be adapted to the lawn and grass conditions.

1. Cut and collect

Fit the 52-litre grass collection box to collect the clippings as you mow. This produces a tidy finish and is the most appropriate option when you do not want cut grass left on the lawn.

2. Cut and drop

Remove the grass collector to leave the cut grass behind the mower. This can be useful on less formal areas where collecting every clipping is unnecessary.

3. Side discharge

The integrated side-discharge opening directs clippings away from the cutting deck. Side discharge can be helpful when grass is longer or too heavy to collect efficiently.

4. Mulching

In the appropriate mulching configuration, the multi-blade cuts the clippings more finely and returns them to the lawn. Fine grass particles can then break down naturally rather than being collected and removed.

Please confirm the supplied mulching components for the current machine package at the time of ordering.

Central cutting-height adjustment

The cutting height can be changed centrally between 20 mm and 100 mm. Rather than adjusting each wheel separately, one control changes the deck height across the mower.

The broad height range allows the machine to deal with:

• Regularly maintained lawns
• A higher first cut after winter
• Longer grass during dry weather
• Less formal areas that are intentionally kept taller

Avoid removing too much of the grass blade in one cut. Where grass has become very long, begin at a higher setting and reduce the height over subsequent cuts.

127 cm³ STIHL EVC 205.0 engine

The RM 248 is powered by a 127 cm³ STIHL EVC 205.0 petrol engine. The engine incorporates an easy-start system intended to support reliable starting when cold or warm.

Petrol operation gives the mower freedom from electrical cables and battery runtime limits, making it practical for gardens where charging access or cordless working time would be inconvenient.

Always use the fuel and engine oil specified in the current STIHL instruction manual. Check the oil level before use and never tip or store the mower contrary to the manufacturer’s instructions.

52-litre folding grass collection box

The 52-litre grass collector provides useful capacity for a mower of this size. Its fill-level indicator shows when airflow has reduced and the box is approaching the point at which it should be emptied.

The collector opens to make emptying easier, while its side vents direct air towards the ground rather than towards the operator.

Comfortable mono-handlebar

The mono-comfort handlebar is mounted on one side, creating clearer access to the grass collection box. This makes removing and replacing the collector easier than on many conventional two-sided handle designs.

The handlebar is height-adjustable, helping different users find a more comfortable working position. A soft grip is designed to reduce the amount of vibration felt through the hands and arms.

Quick-release fittings allow the handle to fold without tools for storage and transport.

Warranty clarification: STIHL states that the mono-handlebar carries a 10-year domestic warranty, subject to STIHL’s current warranty terms. This should not be interpreted as a 10-year warranty covering every component of the mower.

Steel cutting deck

The sheet-steel deck gives the RM 248 a solid construction and supports its four mowing configurations. Like any steel mower deck, it should be cleaned and dried appropriately after use to reduce the risk of trapped wet grass causing corrosion.

Always disconnect the spark-plug lead and follow the instruction manual before accessing or cleaning the underside of the mower.

STIHL RM 248 versus RM 248 T

The RM 248 offers the core cutting features of the RM 248 T without powered wheel drive. Choose the RM 248 T when reduced physical effort is more important than achieving the lowest purchase price.

View the STIHL RM 248 T self-propelled mower.

Petrol or cordless?

The RM 248 is a strong option when you want petrol power and the ability to continue mowing by adding fuel. However, not every garden needs a petrol mower.

Choose the RM 248 petrol mower when:

• You do not want to depend on battery runtime
• You regularly cut heavier or longer grass
• You have suitable fuel storage and are comfortable maintaining an engine
• You want to refuel and continue working immediately

Consider the STIHL RMA 248 cordless lawn mower when:

• Lower noise is important
• You want push-button starting
• You want to avoid storing petrol
• You prefer reduced routine motor maintenance
• Your lawn can be completed within an appropriate battery setup

Why Masseys recommends the STIHL RM 248

At Masseys, we recommend the STIHL RM 248 to homeowners who want a well-sized petrol mower but do not need to pay extra for self-propelled drive.

The 46 cm cutting deck is wide enough to deal efficiently with a typical family lawn, while the four mowing options provide more flexibility than a basic collect-only machine. The central height adjustment, accessible grass box and folding mono-handlebar also make routine use and storage relatively straightforward.

We would not automatically recommend the RM 248 for every medium-sized garden. If the lawn has slopes, the user would find a 30 kg push mower tiring, or the grass is regularly left to become long and heavy, we would normally suggest comparing the self-propelled RM 248 T.

The RM 248 is particularly good value when:

• Your lawn is reasonably level
• You want a 46 cm rather than a compact 39–41 cm deck
• You value mulching and side-discharge capability
• You prefer petrol but do not need wheel drive
• You want support from a local STIHL approved dealer and workshop

Why buy from Masseys?

• STIHL approved dealer: genuine STIHL machinery with appropriate UK dealer support.
• Practical mower advice: help deciding between push, self-propelled, petrol and cordless models.
• Machine preparation: ask about current assembly and ready-to-mow preparation options.
• Warranty support: help registering the machine and handling eligible warranty issues.
• Local showroom: compare lawn mowers at Masseys in Woodville, Swadlincote.
• Workshop facilities: access to lawn mower servicing and machinery repairs.
• Fuel and maintenance products: browse Aspen alkylate petrol and garden-machinery oils and fuel products.

Explore the complete STIHL lawn mower range, compare other petrol lawn mowers, or browse all lawn mowers available from Masseys.

STIHL RM 248 technical specifications

Fuel, maintenance and winter storage

Petrol lawn mowers require regular maintenance to remain reliable. Check the current STIHL manual for the correct fuel, oil, servicing and storage instructions.

Typical maintenance requirements include:

• Checking the engine-oil level
• Keeping the air filter clean
• Inspecting and sharpening the blade
• Cleaning grass from the deck and discharge areas
• Checking control cables and fasteners
• Using fresh, suitable fuel
• Having the mower serviced at the recommended intervals

Old pump petrol can cause starting and fuel-system problems after storage. Masseys stocks Aspen 4 alkylate petrol, which is formulated for four-stroke garden machinery and long-term fuel stability.

For annual maintenance or repair work, see the Masseys machinery workshop and servicing information.

Frequently asked questions

Is the STIHL RM 248 self-propelled?

No. The STIHL RM 248 is a push petrol lawn mower, so the operator supplies the forward movement. Choose the STIHL RM 248 T if you want a single-speed self-propelled drive.

What size lawn is the STIHL RM 248 suitable for?

The RM 248 is designed for small to medium-sized home lawns. STIHL gives an indicative maximum coverage of up to approximately 1,200 m² on a full tank, but the practical suitability depends on the lawn’s slope, layout, grass conditions and the user’s willingness to push a 30 kg mower.

Can the STIHL RM 248 mulch grass?

Yes. The RM 248 supports mulching when it is placed in the appropriate configuration with the relevant mulching components. Mulching finely cuts the clippings and returns them to the lawn instead of collecting them.

Does the STIHL RM 248 have side discharge?

Yes. The deck includes a side-discharge option. This can be useful when mowing longer or heavier grass that would fill the collection box quickly.

What is the cutting width?

The STIHL RM 248 has a 46 cm / 18-inch cutting width. This provides a useful balance between covering open lawn quickly and remaining manageable around common garden obstacles.

What cutting heights are available?

The cutting height can be adjusted centrally between 20 mm and 100 mm across seven settings.

How large is the grass box?

The folding grass collection box has a 52-litre capacity and includes a fill-level indicator to help show when it needs emptying.

How heavy is the STIHL RM 248?

The mower weighs approximately 30 kg without fuel. Because it does not have powered wheel drive, customers with slopes or limited mobility should consider the self-propelled RM 248 T.

Does the whole mower have a ten-year warranty?

No such claim should be assumed. STIHL states that the mono-handlebar carries a ten-year domestic warranty, subject to the manufacturer’s terms. The warranty applicable to the complete mower should be checked against the current STIHL warranty policy when purchasing.

Can Masseys assemble the mower?

Masseys offers mower preparation and assembly services. Confirm the current preparation package, cost and delivery arrangements when ordering, as these may differ between collection and delivered machines.

What is the difference between the RM 248 and RM 248 T?

Both use a 46 cm deck and share many mowing features. The main difference is that the RM 248 is pushed manually, whereas the RM 248 T has a single-speed self-propelled drive. The T model is generally easier on slopes and larger lawns.

Is there a cordless alternative?

Yes. The STIHL RMA 248 uses a similarly sized 46 cm deck but is powered by the STIHL AK cordless battery system. It offers lower noise, push-button starting and no petrol storage, although its working area is limited by the selected battery setup.

Safe operation

Read the instruction manual before using the mower. Wear robust footwear and suitable clothing, and inspect the lawn for stones, wire, toys, branches and other objects before starting.

Keep children and animals away from the mowing area. Stop the engine and allow moving parts to come to a complete stop before removing the grass box, clearing a blockage, changing settings or inspecting the blade.

Never access the blade area while the machine is running. Follow the STIHL manual when cleaning, transporting, refuelling or tipping the mower.