The STIHL FS 38 typically costs about $180-$220 new from a U.S. dealer, when available; used units often sell for $60-$140 depending on condition. The final price depends on local dealer pricing, included accessories, availability, and whether the trimmer needs maintenance or repair.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New FS 38 | $180 | $200 | $220 | Dealer price; availability varies |
| Used, running | $60 | $100 | $140 | Price depends on age and condition |
| Basic tune-up | $40 | $75 | $120 | Shop labor and parts vary |
| Fuel and line for a season | $20 | $40 | $70 | Depends on use and fuel choice |
How much does a new STIHL FS 38 cost?
A new FS 38 generally lists or sells for roughly $180-$220 before any applicable sales tax. This lightweight, gas-powered trimmer uses a 27.2 cc engine and is intended for routine grass trimming and edging around a home. Because STIHL products are sold through independent dealers, prices and stock are not uniform across the country.
For a standard new unit, a practical pre-tax budget is about $200. The estimate assumes a trimmer sold in normal retail condition with its standard cutting head, guard, and basic documentation. Confirm the exact package with the dealer, since accessories or service arrangements can differ.
Assumptions: standard FS 38 configuration, ordinary retail availability, and no major repair or delivery charge.
What the dealer price covers beyond the trimmer
A quote may include the machine and standard parts, while fuel, replacement line, and optional protective gear are usually separate purchases. Ask whether the dealer has already assembled or checked the unit and whether setup is included in the quoted price. Local sales tax is generally added at checkout.
| Quote component | Typical price | What can change it |
|---|---|---|
| FS 38 trimmer | $180-$220 | Dealer, availability, and local market |
| Replacement trimmer line | $5-$15 | Spool size and line type |
| Two-cycle fuel or premix | $8-$30 | Container size and fuel choice |
| Eye and hearing protection | $15-$60 | Basic versus higher-grade gear |
| Shop setup or inspection | $0-$40 | Dealer service policy |
Accessories and initial setup can add about $20-$100 to the purchase budget. A buyer who already has compatible protective equipment and fuel may spend less, while a first-time owner should account for them rather than comparing only the machine sticker price.
How 27.2 cc power and cutting parts affect the quote
The FS 38’s 27.2 cc engine, overall condition, and included cutting head are useful details when comparing listings. A used trimmer with a functioning engine and intact guard may be worth more than one with worn line-feed parts, a damaged starter, or signs of fuel-system problems. On a used unit, ask the seller to start it from cold and run it long enough to check idle and throttle response.
Repair costs can quickly narrow the gap between a used and new machine. A replacement head or starter repair may cost roughly $15-$60 in parts, while a shop repair can bring the bill to $50-$150 or more, depending on diagnosis and labor. A carburetor or engine problem can make a low asking price a poor value.
Condition and repair needs matter more than a small difference in asking price. Verify the model label and included parts, and do not assume that a listing described as “running” has been serviced or is ready for regular use.
New versus used FS 38 prices and repair risk
Used FS 38 units commonly appear around $60-$140, with exceptionally clean machines or local demand pushing prices higher. A non-running trimmer may be advertised for $20-$60, but that price leaves the buyer responsible for diagnosing the failure and sourcing parts. There is no single used-market price because age, storage, and maintenance history vary substantially.
Compared with a used purchase, a new unit costs more upfront but reduces uncertainty about prior use. Dealer coverage and warranty terms depend on the seller, product eligibility, and current manufacturer policy; buyers should confirm the terms in writing instead of assuming every sale includes the same coverage.
For a used trimmer, leave at least $50-$100 in the budget for possible service. If the asking price plus likely repairs approaches the cost of a new model or another current trimmer, compare complete out-the-door prices before deciding.
Why FS 38 prices vary between U.S. dealers
Dealer inventory, local operating costs, and seasonal demand can affect the price. In higher-cost metro areas, the same model may be about 5%-15% more expensive than at a lower-cost rural or suburban dealer. These are budgeting differences, not fixed regional markups, and a nearby dealer may price differently based on stock or promotions.
Availability is especially important when a specific model is not regularly stocked. If a dealer needs to locate or order one, ask whether freight, setup, or a special-order charge applies. Compare the total before tax rather than relying on an online listing that may not reflect local inventory.
Two local quotes can reveal whether a higher price reflects service or simply limited stock. Compare the included parts, setup, and warranty terms alongside the dollar amount.
How much fuel and routine upkeep add each year
Fuel, line, and ordinary upkeep are usually modest compared with the purchase price, but annual spending depends on run time and storage habits. Occasional residential use might require about $20-$70 per year for fuel and line. A shop tune-up, if needed, can add approximately $40-$120, with repairs charged separately.
Use fuel and oil in the mixture specified in the owner’s manual, and avoid storing old mixed fuel for long periods. Keeping the air filter and cutting head in serviceable condition can help prevent avoidable performance problems. Fuel prices and the choice between pump fuel and packaged premix affect the total.
A realistic first-year budget is roughly $200-$300 for a new FS 38 with basic supplies. That estimate does not include major repairs, premium protective equipment, or unusually heavy use.
When a repair bill makes replacement the cheaper choice
A tune-up may be reasonable when a trimmer has a clear, limited issue and otherwise runs well. For example, spending $50-$90 on diagnosis and routine service can make sense for a dependable machine. If the estimate rises above $120-$150, compare it with the cost of a new trimmer, especially when several worn parts need attention.
Repair shops may charge a diagnostic or minimum labor fee, commonly around $30-$60, even if the owner declines the work. Ask whether that fee is credited toward the repair and request an estimate for parts and labor before authorizing service.
Set a repair limit before approving work, rather than deciding after parts have been installed. A written estimate helps distinguish routine maintenance from a repair that approaches replacement value.
Ways to lower the FS 38 purchase price
Check more than one authorized local dealer and compare the complete package, including setup, accessories, and any quoted service fees. If buying used, inspect the trimmer in person and test starting, idling, acceleration, and line feed before paying. A seller who cannot demonstrate operation should price the unit accordingly.
Buying during a quieter period may improve access to inventory, although discounts are not guaranteed. Avoid paying extra for accessories that are not needed, but do not cut the budget for eye and hearing protection. For a repair, obtain a second estimate when the first quote exceeds $100 or includes several parts.
The most reliable savings come from comparing complete quotes and avoiding unverified used-machine risk. A slightly higher dealer price can be reasonable if it includes setup or useful support, while a low sticker price may not be a bargain after tax, supplies, and repairs.