By Graham FisherUpdated November 2026
A Craftsman M250 lawn mower that won’t start is often a problem with the recoil starter, the starter assembly or an electrical component on the engine. Finding the right replacement part starts with matching your exact model and the part type that failed. This list compares six replacement options and explains which kind of owner each one suits. The selection criteria were fit to the M250 model listing, the part’s stated compatibility, build details named in the listing and general owner feedback patterns. We did not test these parts ourselves.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallFor Craftsman M250 21" Lawn Mower Model 12AVB2AQ793 Recoil Pull StarterView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for older Craftsman push mowersReplaces Model#12A-A26B793 11A-A2T2793 Lawn Mower Recoil Pull StarterView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for riding mower electrical starts4-Post, fits Craftsman LT2000, YT3000, YS4500, replaces Husqvrana 5321View on Amazon - 4
Best for multi-brand compatibility192507 Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna Poulan 532192507 582042802 58204View on Amazon - 5
Best budget pickStarter Solenoid for Husqvarna 192507 582042801 582042802 435-325 Craftsman Lawn TractorView on Amazon - 6
Best for Briggs and Craftsman enginesStarter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 Craftsman 14View on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| For Craftsman M250 21″ Lawn Mower Model 12AVB2AQ793 Recoil Pull Starter | M250 owners needing a model-matched starter | Listed for the M250 21″ model 12AVB2AQ793 |
| Replaces Model#12A-A26B793 11A-A2T2793 Lawn Mower Recoil Pull Starter | Owners of related Craftsman push mowers | Recoil starter with multiple listed model cross-references |
| 4-Post Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid 12V | Riding mower owners with a no-click or dead-start problem | 12V solenoid with 4-post terminal design |
| 192507 Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna Poulan Craftsman | Owners matching a 192507 part number | Broad cross-brand part number compatibility |
| Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna 192507 Craftsman Lawn Tractor | Budget-minded owners of lawn tractors | Copper contacts and direct-fit listing |
| Starter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 Craftsman 145673 | Owners with Briggs-based or Craftsman 145673 engines | Relay cross-referenced to several engine brands |
For Craftsman M250 21″ Lawn Mower Model 12AVB2AQ793 Recoil Pull Starter
For Craftsman M250 21" Lawn Mower Model 12AVB2AQ793 Recoil Pull Starter
Best for: M250 owners who want a starter listed for their exact model.
This is the most direct option for someone whose M250 has a broken or worn pull cord. Because the listing names the M250 21″ model and the 12AVB2AQ793 model number, it is the easiest starting point for matching fit.
Key specs
- Listed for Craftsman M250 21″ model 12AVB2AQ793
- Recoil pull starter assembly
- Designed as a replacement for the original starter
Pros
- Model-specific listing reduces guesswork
- Replaces the full starter assembly rather than a single piece
- Straightforward to match against the old unit
Cons
- Only useful if the failed part is the recoil starter
- Installation may require removing the blade cover and shroud
Bottom line: The first choice for an M250 owner whose pull cord or starter housing has failed.
Replaces Model#12A-A26B793 11A-A2T2793 Lawn Mower Recoil Pull Starter Compatible for Craftsman M110 M220 Push Mower
Replaces Model#12A-A26B793 11A-A2T2793 Lawn Mower Recoil Pull Starter Compatible for Craftsman M110 M220 Push Mower
Best for: Owners of older Craftsman push mowers with a recoil starter failure.
This recoil starter lists several Craftsman push mower models in its compatibility notes, making it a useful pick if your M250 part number is hard to find but a related model number matches.
Key specs
- Recoil pull starter for Craftsman push mowers
- Cross-referenced to model numbers 12A-A26B793 and 11A-A2T2793
Pros
- Multiple model cross-references broaden fit
- Useful when OEM numbers are discontinued
- Clear model listing for push mower owners
Cons
- Compatibility depends on matching the listed model numbers
- Not the best match if your M250 is a self-propelled unit with a different starter
Bottom line: A good alternative for push mower owners who want a starter that cross-references several Craftsman models.
4-Post, fits Craftsman LT2000, YT3000, YS4500, replaces Husqvrana 532192507, direct replacement, reliable starts Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid 12V
4-Post, fits Craftsman LT2000, YT3000, YS4500, replaces Husqvrana 532192507, direct replacement, reliable starts Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid 12V for 192507 582042801 582042802
Best for: Riding mower owners whose engine cranks slowly or doesn’t engage.
A starter solenoid is an electrical switch, not a mechanical starter. If your mower clicks but doesn’t crank, or does nothing when you turn the key, this is the part category to test before replacing the engine or battery.
Key specs
- 12V starter solenoid
- 4-post terminal design
- Listed for Craftsman LT2000, YT3000, YS4500 and Husqvarna 532192507
Pros
- Clearly lists compatible tractor models
- Part category addresses a common electrical failure
- Four-post design matches many riding mower solenoids
Cons
- Not a fit for push mowers with recoil starters
- Wiring should be checked before installation
Bottom line: Best suited to riding or lawn tractor owners with an electrical no-start problem.
192507 Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna Poulan 532192507 582042802 582042801 Craftsman LT2000 YS4500 YT3000 Trombetta 862-1241-211-12 Ariens 21546294 Riding Lawn Mower Tractor
192507 Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna Poulan 532192507 582042802 582042801 Craftsman LT2000 YS4500 YT3000 Trombetta 862-1241-211-12 Ariens 21546294 Riding Lawn Mower Tractor
Best for: Owners who want a solenoid matched by part number across several brands.
This listing cross-references a long list of part numbers and brands, which can help if the original solenoid’s label is worn or unreadable.
Key specs
- Starter solenoid, part family 192507
- Cross-referenced to Husqvarna, Poulan, Craftsman, Trombetta and Ariens part numbers
Pros
- Wide cross-reference list helps identify fit
- Useful when the original part number is unreadable
- Covers several riding mower brands
Cons
- Long cross-reference lists mean you must confirm your exact part number
- Terminal layout should be compared to the old solenoid before buying
Bottom line: A strong option for riding mower owners who need to match a solenoid by number across brands.
Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna 192507 582042801 582042802 435-325 Craftsman Lawn Tractor
Replaces 532192507 582042801 582042802 435-325, fits Poulan MTD Cub Cadet Trombetta, copper contacts, direct fit Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna 192507 Craftsman Lawn Tractor
Best for: Budget-minded owners of lawn tractors who need a direct-fit solenoid.
This solenoid lists several part numbers and compatible brands, and it is a practical choice when you want a straightforward replacement without paying for extra features.
Key specs
- Starter solenoid, part numbers 192507, 582042801, 582042802 and 435-325
- Listed for Husqvarna, Poulan, MTD, Cub Cadet and Trombetta equipment
Pros
- Direct-fit listing for common part numbers
- Copper contacts are named in the listing
- Good fit for a budget repair
Cons
- Brand-specific fit should be confirmed before ordering
- Limited to solenoid replacement, not starter assemblies
Bottom line: A sensible pick for owners of lawn tractors who want a no-frills solenoid swap.
Starter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 Craftsman 145673 AYP 109946 John Deere L100 L110 L118 L120 Cub Cadet 725-04439
Starter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 Craftsman 145673 AYP 109946 John Deere L100 L110 L118 L120 Cub Cadet 725-04439
Best for: Owners of Briggs-based engines or Craftsman models that list part 145673.
This relay is cross-referenced to several engine and mower brands. It is most relevant if your M250 uses a Briggs-based electrical system or if your existing relay carries the 145673 reference.
Key specs
- Starter relay for Briggs and Stratton 146154 and Craftsman 145673
- Cross-referenced to AYP, John Deere and Cub Cadet part numbers
Pros
- Cross-references several engine brands
- Useful for Briggs-based engines
- Clear part number listing
Cons
- Relay type is not the same as a solenoid; confirm which your mower uses
- Cross-reference list is long, so verify your model before buying
Bottom line: Worth considering for owners of Briggs-based or 145673-reference Craftsman mowers.
Buying Guide
Confirm the exact model and part number
The M250 model number is printed on a label near the engine or on the deck. Matching the exact model and any part number on the old component is the most important step. A part that is close but not exact can fail to fit or fail to start the engine.
Good picks for this: For Craftsman M250 21″ Lawn Mower Model 12AVB2AQ793 Recoil Pull Starter, Replaces Model#12A-A26B793 11A-A2T2793 Lawn Mower Recoil Pull Starter
Decide whether the problem is mechanical or electrical
A recoil starter that won’t pull or won’t re-engage is mechanical. A solenoid that clicks but doesn’t crank is electrical. Identifying the failed system prevents buying the wrong part. Consult a qualified small engine technician if you are unsure, especially with electrical components.
Good picks for this: 4-Post, fits Craftsman LT2000, YT3000, YS4500 Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid 12V, Starter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 Craftsman 145673
Check cross-references carefully
Many replacement parts list several brands and model numbers. A long cross-reference list is useful, but it means you should compare the terminal layout, length and mounting points against the original part before installing.
Good picks for this: 192507 Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna Poulan Craftsman, Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna 192507 Craftsman Lawn Tractor
Consider the engine and mower type
The M250 is a push mower, so a recoil starter is the most likely failed part. Riding or tractor models use solenoids and relays. Make sure the part category matches your machine type.
Good picks for this: For Craftsman M250 21″ Lawn Mower Model 12AVB2AQ793 Recoil Pull Starter, Replaces Model#12A-A26B793 11A-A2T2793 Lawn Mower Recoil Pull Starter
Look at build quality and contact materials
For solenoids, copper or well-plated contacts help maintain a good electrical connection. For recoil starters, look for a complete assembly with a sturdy housing and rope or cord rather than a bare pulley.
Good picks for this: Starter Solenoid for Husqvarna 192507 Craftsman Lawn Tractor, 4-Post, fits Craftsman LT2000 Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid 12V
Plan for installation and care
Disconnect the spark plug wire before working on the starter. Keep battery terminals clean on electrical systems, and keep the mower’s air filter and fuel system in good condition so that a replacement starter is not wasted on a fuel or compression problem. Consult a professional if the engine has other faults.
Good picks for this: For Craftsman M250 21″ Lawn Mower Model 12AVB2AQ793 Recoil Pull Starter, Starter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 Craftsman 145673
FAQ
Why won’t my Craftsman M250 start even though it has fuel?
Fuel alone does not guarantee a start. Spark, compression and air flow also matter. If the recoil starter does not pull, the engine may not turn over, which is a starter problem. If the engine turns but doesn’t fire, check the spark plug, fuel quality and air filter.
How do I know if the recoil starter is broken?
If the pull cord has no resistance, does not retract, or feels loose without engaging the engine, the starter assembly or pulley is likely the problem. A cord that snaps at the handle or housing is another sign.
Can I replace a recoil starter myself?
Many owners replace recoil starters with basic hand tools. Remove the spark plug wire first and follow the manufacturer’s manual for the M250. If you are uncomfortable with the disassembly or the spring tension, a small engine shop can do the job.
Do I need a solenoid for a push mower?
Most push mowers, including the M250, use a recoil starter rather than a solenoid. Solenoids are typically found on riding mowers and lawn tractors. Confirm your machine type before ordering an electrical part.
What should I check before buying a replacement part?
Check the model number, the part number on the old component, the terminal layout and the mounting points. Compare the listed compatibility with your label. If the part is a solenoid, verify whether your system is 12V.
Is it safe to work on the starter with the mower plugged in or running?
No. Disconnect the spark plug wire and, for electric-start machines, disconnect the battery before working on electrical or starter components. Work on the mower only on a level surface with the engine cool.
Conclusion
For most Craftsman M250 owners, the model-matched recoil starter is the best first step if the pull cord or starter housing has failed. Push mower owners with older Craftsman models may find the cross-referenced recoil starter more useful. Riding and tractor owners with an electrical no-start problem should look at the solenoid or relay options, but confirm the part category and wiring before buying. Matching the exact model and part number remains the most important factor for a successful repair.
Sources
- Safety guidance for operating and maintaining power lawn equipment (cpsc.gov)
- Workplace safety standards that apply to powered tools and equipment maintenance (osha.gov)
- General information on small engine efficiency and maintenance practices (energy.gov)
Related reading
- Craftsman V20 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 6 Best Replacement Parts (2026)
- Craftsman M320 Lawn Mower Won't Start: Step-by-Step Fixes
- Craftsman M260 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 8 Causes and Fixes
About Graham Fisher
Graham Fisher is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our lawn mowers guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
