Ryobi Pressure Washer Stopped Working [Quick Fixes]

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Updated in January 2026 | By John

There’s nothing more frustrating than a pressure washer that won’t start. You’re ready to clean your driveway, deck, or car, but your machine is just sitting there, useless. If you’re a Ryobi pressure washer owner, you’re not alone. This is a common problem with these machines. But don’t despair! In this guide, I’ll walk you through some simple troubleshooting steps that will help you get your Ryobi pressure washer up and running again in no time.

Reasons Why Ryobi Pressure Washer Stopped Working

No Water Flow

No water coming out of the spray gun

Cause:

Blocked water filter

Solution:

Remove and clean the water filter.

Water coming out of the spray gun in a weak stream

Cause:

Low water pressure

Solution:

Check the water pressure at the garden hose connection. If the pressure is low, check the water supply to the pressure washer.

Water coming out of the pressure washer with a lot of air

Cause:

Air leak in the pressure washer

Solution:

Inspect the pressure washer for leaks and tighten any loose connections.

No Power

Pressure washer won’t turn on

Cause:

Disconnected power cord

Solution:

Make sure the power cord is plugged into an outlet and that the outlet is turned on.

Pressure washer turns on but won’t start

Cause:

Faulty switch

Solution:

Replace the switch.

Pressure washer starts but won’t build pressure

Cause:

Faulty pressure switch

Solution:

Replace the pressure switch.

Other Problems

Pressure washer makes a loud noise

Cause:

Worn out pump

Solution:

Replace the pump.

Pressure washer leaks oil

Cause:

Damaged oil seal

Solution:

Replace the oil seal.

Pressure washer won’t start after winterizing

Cause:

Frozen water in the pump

Solution:

Thaw out the pump by running warm water over it.

How to Troubleshoot and Fix: Ryobi Pressure Washer Stopped Working

Symptoms of a Ryobi Pressure Washer that has Stopped Working

There are a few different symptoms that can indicate that your Ryobi pressure washer has stopped working. These include:

The pressure washer won’t start
The pressure washer makes a loud noise when it’s turned on
The pressure washer leaks water
The pressure washer doesn’t produce any pressure

Troubleshooting a Ryobi Pressure Washer that has Stopped Working

If your Ryobi pressure washer has stopped working, there are a few things you can check to try to troubleshoot the problem.

1. Check the power cord:
Make sure that the power cord is plugged into an outlet and that the outlet is working. You can also try plugging the pressure washer into a different outlet to see if that fixes the problem.

2. Check the water supply:
Make sure that the water supply to the pressure washer is turned on and that there is enough water pressure. You can also try disconnecting the water hose from the pressure washer and reconnecting it to make sure that the connection is tight.

3. Check the oil level:
If your Ryobi pressure washer has an oil reservoir, check the oil level and add oil if necessary.

4. Check the air filter:
The air filter on your Ryobi pressure washer can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can prevent the pressure washer from starting or operating properly. Remove the air filter and clean it with a brush or compressed air.

5. Check the spark plug:
The spark plug on your Ryobi pressure washer can become fouled or damaged, which can prevent the pressure washer from starting. Remove the spark plug and inspect it for damage. If the spark plug is damaged, replace it with a new one.

6. Check the fuel filter:
The fuel filter on your Ryobi pressure washer can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can prevent the pressure washer from starting or operating properly. Remove the fuel filter and clean it with a brush or compressed air.

7. Check the carburetor:
The carburetor on your Ryobi pressure washer can become dirty or clogged, which can prevent the pressure washer from starting or operating properly. You can try cleaning the carburetor yourself or you can take it to a qualified technician to have it serviced.

8. Replace the starter motor:
If the starter motor on your Ryobi pressure washer is not working properly, it can prevent the pressure washer from starting. You can try replacing the starter motor yourself or you can take it to a qualified technician to have it serviced.

How to Fix a Ryobi Pressure Washer that has Stopped Working

Once you have identified the problem with your Ryobi pressure washer, you can fix it yourself or you can take it to a qualified technician to have it repaired.

If you decide to fix the pressure washer yourself, you will need to follow the instructions in the owner’s manual. You may also need to purchase replacement parts for the pressure washer.

If you decide to take the pressure washer to a qualified technician, they will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the pressure washer for you.

Preventing Future Problems with Your Ryobi Pressure Washer

You can help prevent future problems with your Ryobi pressure washer by following these tips:

Regularly clean the air filter:
The air filter on your Ryobi pressure washer can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can prevent the pressure washer from starting or operating properly. Remove the air filter and clean it with a brush or compressed air every 25 hours of use.

Regularly change the oil:
The oil in your Ryobi pressure washer can become contaminated with dirt and debris, which can damage the engine. Change the oil every 50 hours of use.

Inspect the spark plug regularly:
The spark plug on your Ryobi pressure washer can become fouled or damaged, which can prevent the pressure washer from starting. Inspect the spark plug every 100 hours of use and replace it if necessary.

Keep the fuel tank full:
Running your Ryobi pressure washer with a low fuel level can cause the fuel pump to overheat and fail. Keep the fuel tank full to prevent this problem.

Store your Ryobi pressure washer properly:
When you are not using your Ryobi pressure washer, store it in a cool, dry place. Do not store the pressure washer outdoors or in a damp area.

By following these tips, you can help prevent future problems with your Ryobi pressure washer and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Also Read THis: Electric Pressure Washer Stopped Working

FAQs: Ryobi Pressure Washer Stopped Working

Why did my Ryobi pressure washer stop working?

There are a few possible reasons why your Ryobi pressure washer may have stopped working. Here are some of the most common causes:

The pressure washer is not getting enough water: Make sure that the water supply to the pressure washer is turned on and that the water pressure is sufficient.

The pressure washer is overheating: If the pressure washer is running for too long without a break, it can overheat and shut down. Allow the pressure washer to cool down for a few minutes before using it again.

The pressure washer is clogged: The pressure washer may be clogged with dirt or debris, which can prevent it from working properly. Clean the pressure washer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The pressure washer is not primed: The pressure washer must be primed before it can be used. To prime the pressure washer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

The pressure washer is broken: If the pressure washer is not working after you have checked all of the above, it may be broken. Contact a qualified technician for repairs.

What should I do if my Ryobi pressure washer won’t start?

If your Ryobi pressure washer won’t start, here are a few things you can try:

Check the power cord: Make sure that the power cord is plugged into an outlet and that the outlet is working.

Check the breaker: If the pressure washer is plugged into a circuit breaker, check to make sure that the breaker is not tripped.

Check the fuse: If the pressure washer is plugged into a fuse box, check to make sure that the fuse is not blown.

Try priming the pressure washer: If the pressure washer is not primed, it will not start. To prime the pressure washer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Try troubleshooting the pressure washer: If the pressure washer is still not starting after you have checked all of the above, you may need to troubleshoot the pressure washer. Contact a qualified technician for help.

How do I fix a Ryobi pressure washer that is leaking?

If your Ryobi pressure washer is leaking, here are a few things you can check:

Check the O-rings: The O-rings on the pressure washer may be worn out or damaged, which can cause leaks. Replace the O-rings if they are damaged.

Check the seals: The seals on the pressure washer may also be worn out or damaged, which can cause leaks. Replace the seals if they are damaged.

Check the hoses: The hoses on the pressure washer may be cracked or damaged, which can cause leaks. Replace the hoses if they are damaged.

Check the fittings: The fittings on the pressure washer may be loose or damaged, which can cause leaks. Tighten the fittings or replace them if they are damaged.

How do I clean a Ryobi pressure washer?

To clean your Ryobi pressure washer, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect it from the power source.
2. Remove the wand from the pressure washer.
3. Remove the nozzle from the wand.
4. Clean the wand and nozzle with warm, soapy water.
5. Rinse the wand and nozzle with clean water.
6. Dry the wand and nozzle with a towel.
7. Reattach the wand and nozzle to the pressure washer.
8. Turn on the pressure washer and test it to make sure that it is working properly.

How do I maintain a Ryobi pressure washer?

To maintain your Ryobi pressure washer, follow these tips:

Use the pressure washer according to the manufacturer’s instructions:

Clean the pressure washer after each use:

Store the pressure washer in a cool, dry place:

Inspect the pressure washer regularly for damage:

Replace worn or damaged parts as needed:

By following these tips, you can help to keep your Ryobi pressure washer in good working order for many years to come.

About The Author

Hi, I’m John, the creator of this site.
With years of hands-on gardening experience, I’m passionate about growing fresh fruits and vegetables and making gardening easy for everyone.
Here, I share tips, ideas, and inspiration to help you enjoy a thriving garden—no matter your skill level!