Buyer Guide

Lawn Mowers Buyer Guide

Lawn mowers are essential equipment for maintaining green spaces, from residential yards to commercial properties and sports fields. This category serves homeowners, landscaping businesses, municipalities, and facility managers who require efficient and reliable grass cutting solutions.

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Fast facts

Used walk-behind and riding mowers typically range from $500 to $10,000, while commercial zero-turns and stand-ons can be $8,000 to $30,000+.
Operating weight varies significantly: walk-behinds around 50-150 lbs, residential riders 400-800 lbs, and commercial zero-turns 800-1,500 lbs.
Well-maintained commercial mowers can provide 1,500-3,000+ hours of reliable service; residential models often less, depending on duty cycle.
Fuel usage is typically gasoline, with some commercial models using diesel or propane; electric options are gaining popularity for smaller tasks.
Common attachments include mulching kits, bagging systems, dethatchers, snow blades (for tractors), and aerators.
Primary jobsite uses involve turf maintenance, including cutting, trimming, and mulching grass on various terrains and scales.
Engine sizes range from 5-10 HP for walk-behinds to 20-40+ HP for large commercial zero-turns.
Cutting deck widths typically vary from 21 inches for push mowers to 72 inches or more for commercial units.

What to look for

1Inspect the deck for cracks, bends, or excessive rust, especially around spindle mounts and discharge chutes; indicates hard impacts or neglect.
2Check blade condition for sharpness, balance, and any signs of impact damage; dull or bent blades lead to poor cuts and engine strain.
3Examine wheel bearings and tire condition (tread wear, dry rot, proper inflation); worn wheels impact maneuverability and stability.
4On riding mowers, test the steering linkage and hydrostatic transmission for smooth operation and responsiveness; listen for unusual noises.
5Verify the hour meter reading aligns with the general wear and tear of the machine; look for faded paint on high-contact areas vs. low hours.
6Review service records for consistent oil changes, blade replacements, and belt maintenance; a history of neglect is a major red flag.
7For zero-turn mowers, check hydraulic fluid levels and condition, and inspect hydraulic lines and pumps for leaks or damage; critical for drive system.
8Test all safety switches (seat, deck engagement, park brake) to ensure they function correctly, as they are often bypassed on neglected units.
9Look underneath for excessive grass buildup, which can hide structural issues and cause overheating or premature wear.
10If equipped with telematics, verify data consistency for usage patterns and maintenance alerts; can reveal operator abuse or skipped service.

Best makes & models

John Deere

Ztrak, X Series

Renowned for robust construction, powerful engines, and excellent dealer support, offering both residential and heavy-duty commercial options.

Kubota

Z Series

Praised for their durable diesel engines, comfortable operation, and reliable hydrostatic transmissions, particularly in commercial zero-turns.

Toro

TimeCutter, Grandstand, Z Master

A leader in innovation, offering a wide range of models known for their cutting performance, maneuverability, and advanced features for professionals.

Ferris

IS Series

Distinguished by their patented suspension systems, providing superior operator comfort and increased productivity on uneven terrain.

Exmark

Lazer Z, Vantage

Considered a top-tier choice for commercial landscapers, known for extreme durability, heavy-duty components, and exceptional cut quality.

Models with known issues

Commonly-reported issues from operators and technicians. Every machine varies — always inspect before you buy.

Certain brands Specific entry-level models from big-box stores

Some models are built with lighter components or less robust transmissions to hit lower price points, leading to premature wear if used for anything beyond light, infrequent duty.

Older Commercial Mowers Pre-2015 models without DPF or SCR (diesel)

While older diesel models can be reliable, parts for emissions systems on some early Tier 4 interim engines can be expensive and hard to source, making repairs costly if problems arise.

Lesser-known OEMs Various brands sold without established dealer networks

Parts availability can become a significant headache, especially for proprietary components or after a few years, making even minor repairs difficult and costly.

Specific model years Certain 2008-2012 residential riding mowers

Industry chatter suggests some brands during this period experienced issues with undersized transaxles or problematic electrical harnesses that were prone to intermittent failures.

Frequently asked questions

What's a good price for a used commercial zero-turn mower?

A good price for a used commercial zero-turn mower can range from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on hours, condition, and deck size. Expect to pay more for late-model units with low hours or premium features.

How many hours are 'too many' on a used lawn mower?

For commercial-grade mowers, 1,500-2,500 hours is generally considered moderate use; anything above 3,000 hours suggests it's nearing the end of its typical lifespan without major overhauls. Residential mowers rarely see more than 500-1000 hours.

Can I finance a used lawn mower?

Yes, financing is available for used lawn mowers through equipment lenders, banks, or sometimes directly from dealers, especially for higher-value commercial units. Interest rates and terms will depend on the equipment's age, your credit, and the loan amount.

What's the typical cost to ship a riding mower?

Shipping costs for a riding mower within the contiguous US can range from $200 to $800+, depending on distance, size, weight, and whether it's transported open or enclosed. Obtaining multiple quotes is recommended.

Do used lawn mowers come with a warranty?

Most used lawn mowers are sold 'as-is' without a warranty, though some certified pre-owned programs from dealers may offer limited short-term coverage. Always clarify warranty status before purchase.

What factors impact the resale value of a lawn mower?

Resale value is primarily impacted by brand reputation, hours of use, overall condition, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable features or attachments. Popular commercial models hold their value better than entry-level residential units.