Stihl Petrol Pressure Washer Review
Stihl is a powerhouse in outdoor power equipment, and their petrol pressure washers promise the high flow and mobility that cordless and electric units cannot match. This review examines Stihl's petrol range to help you decide if the investment in one of these commercial-grade machines is right for your heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
Quick answer
The Stihl RE 162 is the top pick for its balance of power and portability, offering 160 bar of pressure and a reliable Honda engine. For maximum cleaning speed on large surfaces, the Stihl RE 602 Plus delivers a massive 600 litres per hour flow rate, making it the best choice for professional users.
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Research updated June 2026.
Stihl RE 162
Best balance of pressure and portability for heavy-duty home and farm use.
Pros
- Reliable Honda engine starts easily and runs smoothly
- High quality pump and unloader valve for long life
- Excellent pressure and flow for cleaning concrete and vehicles
- Stihl dealer network for parts and service
Cons
- Heavy and not as portable as electric models
- Requires regular engine maintenance (oil, fuel, air filter)
Who is the Stihl Petrol Pressure Washer For?
Stihl petrol pressure washers are designed for users who need sustained, high-pressure cleaning away from mains electricity. They are ideal for farms, smallholdings, and large properties where you need to clean concrete yards, heavy machinery, and large vehicles. The petrol engine provides the power and flow needed for tough jobs like stripping paint, cleaning algae from walls, and washing down agricultural equipment.
These machines are not for light domestic use. If you only need to clean a car and patio once a year, a corded electric model will be lighter, cheaper, and quieter. However, if you need to clean for hours at a time without tripping a breaker or running out of battery, a Stihl petrol washer is a serious upgrade in capability.
Performance: Pressure and Flow
Stihl offers petrol washers with pressures from 100 bar to 180 bar, and flow rates from 400 to 600 litres per hour. The key specification for cleaning speed is flow rate. The Stihl RE 602 Plus, with its 600 L/h flow, can rinse a large concrete yard in half the time of a 400 L/h model. Pressure is more important for cutting into stubborn dirt and paint, and the 160-180 bar models are best for this.
Owner reviews on forums and retailer sites consistently praise the cleaning power of Stihl petrol washers. Users report that the Honda engines are reliable and start easily even after long periods of storage. The pumps are generally robust, with many owners reporting several years of heavy use without issues. However, some users note that the higher-end models can be quite loud, which is typical for petrol engines.
Build Quality and Reliability
Stihl petrol pressure washers are built to a high standard. The frames are made of heavy-duty steel tube, and the pumps are usually from reputable manufacturers like AR or Comet. The use of Honda engines is a major plus for reliability, as these engines are known for their longevity and ease of maintenance. The hose connections are brass and the trigger guns feel solid.
Stihl offers a standard warranty that varies by region, but is typically 2 years for domestic use and 1 year for commercial use. The dealer network is a significant advantage. If you need a part or service, you can take the machine to a local Stihl dealer, which is much easier than dealing with a mail-order brand. This support is a key reason why many professionals choose Stihl.
Alternatives to Consider
If you want a petrol pressure washer but Stihl is out of budget, consider the Karcher K 7 Premium Smart Control for a top-tier electric option, or the Honda pressure washers which use the same engines. For a lighter petrol option, the Ryobi petrol pressure washer offers a lower price point, though build quality is not as high. If you need the absolute highest flow, look at the Kranzle machines, which are German-made and built for daily commercial use.
FAQs
Are Stihl petrol pressure washers worth the money?
Yes, for heavy-duty use where power and reliability are critical. The Honda engine and robust pump justify the higher price compared to budget brands.
What engine do Stihl petrol pressure washers use?
Most Stihl petrol pressure washers use Honda GX series engines, known for their reliability and easy starting. Some models may use Stihl's own 4-MIX engine.
How do I maintain a Stihl petrol pressure washer?
Regularly check and change the engine oil, use fresh fuel, clean the air filter, and flush the pump with antifreeze if storing for winter. The owner's manual provides a full schedule.
Can I use a Stihl petrol pressure washer indoors?
No, never use a petrol engine indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. They must be used in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
What is the warranty on a Stihl petrol pressure washer?
Stihl typically offers a 2-year warranty for domestic use and a 1-year warranty for commercial use. Check with your local dealer for specific terms.
How loud is a Stihl petrol pressure washer?
They are loud, typically around 95-100 dB. Hearing protection is recommended when operating the machine for extended periods.
What is the difference between the Stihl RE 162 and RE 602 Plus?
The RE 162 has 160 bar pressure and 420 L/h flow, while the RE 602 Plus has 140 bar pressure but a much higher 600 L/h flow for faster rinsing.
Can I use detergent with a Stihl petrol pressure washer?
Yes, all models have a detergent injection system. Use only Stihl-approved detergents or other pressure washer safe soaps to avoid damaging the pump.
Where can I buy spare parts for a Stihl pressure washer?
Spare parts are available through any authorized Stihl dealer. This is a major advantage over many online-only brands.
Is a petrol pressure washer better than an electric one?
For heavy-duty, remote, or continuous use, yes. Petrol offers more power and portability. For light domestic use, electric is cheaper, quieter, and easier to maintain.
Our verdict
For users who need serious cleaning power away from a power outlet, the Stihl RE 162 is our top pick for its excellent balance of pressure, flow, and reliability. If your priority is cleaning large flat surfaces as fast as possible, the Stihl RE 602 Plus with its high flow rate is the best choice. Both models justify their price with long-term build quality and strong dealer support.