How to inspect a used Stihl iMOW — UK guide
Stihl iMOW is the orange answer to Husqvarna Automower. Better dealer network, similar reliability, slightly higher used prices. Here's what to check before paying.
Before you go
Bring: phone, a torch. The iMOW PIN should be the seller's — they'll need to factory-reset it before transfer.
Confirm the original charging station and AKM battery are included. Stihl chargers are model-specific.
1. Power-on and battery health
Power on, check the display. Battery info screen shows cycles and capacity.
Cycles under 200 = excellent. Over 800 = expect to replace battery within 12-18 months. £140-£220 OEM.
2. Inspect cutting disc
Same razor-blade design as Husqvarna. Three blades on a steel disc.
Worn blades = £6 set, change before use. Disc out of true (visible wobble) = £35 part.
3. Test docking
Place mower 1m from charging station and command Home via menu. Should locate the dock within 60 seconds and engage.
Fails to find dock on entry models = walk away (sensor module failure, dealer-only fix £180+).
4. Boundary loop test
iMOWs use a buried wire. Steady green on the dock = healthy loop.
Red flashing = broken wire. Splice with a Stihl-supplied connector (£8) — see our boundary-wire repair guide.
5. What to pay in 2026
RMI 422 / 522: £400–£650 working with intact accessories.
RMI 632 / 632 P / 632 PC: £650–£1,100 mid-condition.
iMOW 6 EVO (current generation): £1,200–£1,600 with low cycles.
Add £150 if you can document Stihl dealer service history.
FAQs
iMOW vs Automower — which is the better used buy?
Husqvarna has the older / wider used market and slightly lower prices. Stihl has stronger UK dealer network for parts. If a Stihl dealer is local, lean iMOW; otherwise Automower is the safer pick.
What about the new wireless iMOW (no boundary wire)?
The iMOW 6 EVO is wire-based. The fully-wireless Stihl iMOW EVO 6 with EPOS-style positioning is a 2025+ release and rarely on the used market yet — wait until 2027 for sensible used prices.
Is the Stihl PIN system a problem on used buys?
No, but the seller must factory-reset before you take delivery. If they can't or won't, walk away — the mower is locked to their account and only Stihl HQ can unlock it.
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