A Stihl FS 45 weed eater typically costs about $50-$150 used, with a working, complete example averaging around $100. Since the model is discontinued, condition, local availability, included accessories, and repair needs matter more than a current retail list price.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Used FS 45 | $50 | $100 | $150 | Running, ordinary wear, common private-sale pricing |
| Needs repair | $20 | $45 | $70 | Price depends on whether the engine starts |
| Clean, complete used unit | $100 | $150 | $200 | Higher end for good condition and accessories |
| New old stock | $180 | $240 | $300 | Uncommon; confirm condition and seller terms |
What a working Stihl FS 45 usually costs
Most buyers should budget $75-$150 for a used FS 45 that starts, idles, and cuts properly. Around $100 is a reasonable planning figure for a basic, usable trimmer with its cutting head and guard. Units with heavy wear, missing parts, or uncertain running condition can sell for less; unusually clean examples may be priced higher.
The FS 45 is a lightweight gas trimmer with a 27.2 cc engine. It is an older, discontinued model, so pricing reflects local used-equipment supply rather than a standardized new-product price. A listing marked “new” may be old inventory, refurbished, or simply unused; check exactly what the seller means.
Assumptions: U.S. private-party sale, ordinary wear, complete trimmer, and no major engine or fuel-system repairs.
How fuel-system parts and labor shape the quote
A low purchase price can be offset by a tune-up or repair. Small-engine shops commonly charge a diagnostic or minimum service fee, then add parts and labor. The figures below are broad U.S. estimates; shop policies and parts availability vary.
| Quote item | Typical price | What it may include | Cost note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel-line or filter service | $20-$60 | Basic fuel delivery parts | May be billed with a minimum fee |
| Carburetor cleaning | $50-$100 | Cleaning and adjustment | Replacement parts can add $15-$50 |
| Spark plug and tune-up | $30-$80 | Plug, inspection, minor adjustments | Ask what is included |
| Shop labor | $75-$125 per hour | Diagnosis and repair work | |
| Cutting head or guard | $15-$50 | Replacement or compatible accessory | Verify fit before purchase |
A $50 repair estimate can be worthwhile; a $150-plus repair may approach the price of another working used trimmer. Ask whether the estimate includes diagnosis, parts, labor, and tax, and whether the shop will call before exceeding the quoted amount.
Engine condition and included parts move FS 45 prices
Running condition is the biggest price divider. A trimmer that starts cold, idles steadily, and accelerates without stalling supports a higher asking price than one that only starts after warming up. A machine that will not start may have a simple fuel-line issue, but it could also need carburetor or engine work.
Missing equipment also affects value. Check for the cutting head, deflector, handle, and intact fuel tank. A damaged starter, cracked housing, or missing guard can add replacement expense or make safe operation impractical. A seller’s claim that it “just needs a tune-up” is not a confirmed diagnosis.
Compare the complete, running unit—not just the engine or the advertised price. If a seller asks more than $150, the condition, maintenance history, and included accessories should justify the premium.
Keep the purchase price down without inheriting repairs
Test the trimmer before paying when possible. Ask the seller to start it from cold, then let it idle and run at full throttle. Confirm the cutting head spins as expected and that the stop switch works. If it cannot be demonstrated running, treat it as a repair project and offer accordingly.
Compare several local listings and include transport, replacement line, and any shop inspection in the budget. Avoid paying extra for accessories that will not be used, but do not remove required safety equipment to save money. A written receipt with the model and sale price can help document the transaction.
Set a maximum total budget before bargaining. For example, a $60 nonrunning unit plus a $100 repair is a $160 purchase, not a $60 bargain.
Used FS 45 prices versus newer Stihl trimmers
A used FS 45 can be economical for occasional trimming if it runs reliably and parts are available. A newer entry-level gas trimmer may cost roughly $180-$250 before tax, depending on model and dealer pricing. New equipment generally costs more upfront but may include a warranty and easier access to current support.
Battery trimmers are another comparison. A basic tool-only model may cost about $100-$200, while a kit with battery and charger can run roughly $150-$350. Those prices vary by brand and battery capacity. For buyers who already own compatible batteries, tool-only pricing may be relevant; otherwise, compare the full kit price with gas equipment.
Assumptions: Typical U.S. retail ranges for entry-level equipment; local dealer prices, promotions, and included batteries vary.
When an FS 45 repair makes financial sense
For a unit already owned, a minor fuel-system or ignition repair may cost less than replacing the trimmer. A practical decision compares the full repair estimate with the price of a verified working used FS 45 or a newer entry-level alternative. Age, storage history, and repeated starting problems matter because another repair may follow the first.
If a shop estimates $50-$100 for a defined repair, the work may be reasonable on a sound machine. If the estimate reaches $150-$250, replacement often deserves comparison, particularly when the trimmer also has a damaged starter, worn cutting head, or engine compression concerns.
Three realistic FS 45 buying budgets
Budget the full transaction, including likely service—not only the seller’s asking price. These examples show how condition changes the effective cost; repair totals are estimates, not guaranteed diagnoses.
| Scenario | Purchase | Likely added expense | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Working private-sale unit | $90 | $10-$25 for line or minor supplies | $100-$115 |
| Starts inconsistently | $45 | $50-$100 shop cleaning or fuel service | $95-$145 |
| Clean, complete example | $150 | $0-$30 for basic supplies | $150-$180 |
For a nonrunning trimmer, ask for a specific repair estimate before committing. The buyer’s total can exceed $150 quickly if diagnosis reveals multiple failed components, while a tested unit near $100 may offer a lower-risk purchase.