In my extensive experience with zero-turn mowers, Husqvarna undeniably stands out as a heavyweight in the industry. The pivotal question remains: does the premium price they ask translate into unmatched quality compared to rivals, or is there a risk of significant buyer’s remorse? I will delve into this with my detailed reviews of several Husqvarna zero-turn mowers.
Reviews of the Top Husqvarna Zero Turn Mowers
1. Husqvarna Z254
The Husqvarna Z254 zero turn mower from is powered by a 26HP Kohler engine and can reach a 6.5mph max speed so you can get the job done quickly. The speed is one thing, but the lawn mower is also easy to control so you don’t have to worry about losing control. The patent-pending parking brake is activated and deactivated by moving the steering levers.
The Husqvarna Z254 is endowed with advanced air induction mowing technology that takes in air from both the top and bottom of the cutting deck for a far better cut than competitors.
What I Like
- It has a 6.5mph top speed
- It features a 26HP Kohler engine
- The zero turn radius is a nice addition
- It has a 54-inch deck
- It has the air induction mowing technology
- It has a patent-pending parking brake system
- It has a reinforced steel cutting deck
- Allows you to mulch, bag, or discharge clippings
- It has a maintenance-free transmission
What I Don’t Like
- It has no headlight
- Assembly is required
2. Husqvarna MZ61
I loved the MZ61, which comes with a 27HP Briggs & Stratton engine for the comfort it provides. The MZ61 has a high back seat, which can’t be said for many of the other models on the list. If you’re looking to mow for long hours, this is the product of choice.
The Husqvarna MZ61 also has a very large cutting deck, which helps you get the job done quicker. The heavy-duty 11-gauge steel reinforced deck has a superior lifting system that is easily adjustable right from your seat.
The MZ61 zero turn mower allows you to mulch, bag, or discharge the clippings, although the mulching kit is sold separately.
What I Like
- It has a high back chair
- It features a 27HP Briggs & Stratton engine
- It has armrests
- It has padded foam grips
- It can dispel clippings in 3 ways
- It has a fabricated 11-gauge steel deck
- It has a cupholder
- It includes an hour meter with service reminder
- It is the best zero turn mowers for comfort
- It has vibration dampeners
What I Don’t Like
- It has no headlights
- The mulching kit is sold separately
3. Husqvarna MZ61 24HP
The Husqvarna MZ61 24HP is a smaller zero turn riding lawn mower that has extra safety features compared to its larger counterpart above. The 24HP Kawasaki engine provides quick and reliable startups and fast speeds.
This particular zero turn riding lawn mower is among the safest because it comes complete with ROPS (Roll-over Protection System) that makes it suitable to operate in all weather conditions.
It also has a very large high-quality fabricated steel cutting deck and has all the comforts the other MZ61 zero turn riding mower provides including a high-back chair and armrests.
What I Like
- It features a 24HP Kawasaki engine
- It is fast and reliable
- It has a roll-over protection system
- It features a high-back chair with armrests
- It has foam-padded hand grips
- It has vibration dampeners
- It deals with clippings in 3 ways
- It has a 11-gauge steel deck
- It is a zero turn riding lawn mower
What I Don’t Like
- It can be a bit difficult to get out of the package
- The bagger attachment is sold separately
4. Husqvarna MZ54F
For power with a slightly smaller cutting deck, I prefer the Husqvarna MZ54F. This particular mower still has an impressive 24HP Kawasaki engine, which is known to be reliable and a preferred option for the lawn care industry.
A 54-inch cutting deck may still be a bit bigger for a zero-turn radius mower, but the zero turn riding lawn mower is excellent for an acreage. It has an auto parking brake system and the high-performance blades work well with the powerful engine that will make cutting grass a breeze.
There is a high-back seating area with armrests, foam pad grips, and vibration dampeners that makes this more comfortable than other lawn mowers.
What I Like
- It has a 24HP Kawasaki engine
- The startups are reliable
- It is a zero-turn riding mower
- It features a ClearCut deck
- It is more comfortable than other riding mowers
- It has an easy grass lift
- It has a comfortable seat with armrests
- It has padded grips
- It has anti-vibration dampeners
What I Don’t Like
- It has no gas gauge
- It has no trailer hitch bracket
5. Husqvarna Z254F
For lower maintenance lawns that don’t need large Husqvarna lawn mowers, the Husqvarna Z254F is an excellent choice. It still has a decent cutting deck size with ClearCut Technology and a hydrostatic design transmission that is maintenance-free and suited for rough terrain.
Similar to Husqvarna Z246i mower model, it has 23HP Kawasaki engine that powers through grass. You also have the choice of discharging, bagging, or mulching the clippings. There is also an ergonomic control panel onboard with a comfortable seat and an anti-slip foot area.
You can get up to a 6.5 mph ground speed that’s fast and makes your cutting job fun and quick.
What I Like
- It has a 23HP Kawasaki engine
- It has a fast ground speed
- It has a hydrostatic design transmission
- It has a zero turn feature
- The clippings can be discharged, mulched, or bagged
- It has a comfy seat
- It has an ergonomic control panel
- It features an anti-slip area for feet
- It features a deep ClearCut deck
What I Don’t Like
- It is not the best for wet grass
- It has no head or tail lights
6. Husqvarna Z248F
It’s a little pricey, but the Husqvarna Z248F is worth it with the 21.5HP engine from Kawasaki with a top speed that matches my top choice. The hydrostatic-style transmission is worry and maintenance-free, which makes lawn mowing a fun task rather than a chore.
The ClearCut deck has a deeper design than other zero turn lawn mowers, which allows for superior airflow for a better cut paired with high-performance blades. The controls on the zero turn mower are highly intuitive and there is an anti-slip foot pad that makes sure you always have a secure foothold during mowing.
What I Like
- It has a zero turning radius
- The grass clippings can be dealt with in 3 ways
- It has a clearCut deck
- It features a 21.5HP engine by Kawasaki
- It has better airflow
- It has superior blades
- It has hydrostatic transmission
- It has an anti-slip foot pad
- It has Intuitive controls
What I Don’t Like
- It has a high price tag
- It doesn't have a high back seat
Husqvarna Zero Turn Mower Buyer’s Guide
This Husqvarna zero turn mower review took a lot of time, but I wanted to consider everything a consumer would value in a riding mower, such as the cutting blades, cutting deck, cutting width, and even the traction of the rear wheels. Follow this list of priority features to look for.
Size and Design
There are various sizes of zero turn mowers, and which one you should get depends on the size of your lawn. Will a residential mower do the job for you, or do you need something more commercial because you are on an acreage or farmland? Common deck sizes are 51, 54, and 61 inches.
To look at it simply, a larger cutting deck will help you get the job done quicker, but for those who have obstacles on the land or many sharp corners, even a Husqvarna zero turn mower will have trouble maneuvering those circumstances. In cases such as this, I recommend going for a smaller size.
There are 2 different types of zero turn mowers – 2 and 3 function options. This is very important because most Husqvarna zero turn riding lawn mowers are 3 functions. The best zero turn mower for you just needs to meet your needs.
A 2-function option will allow users to either mulch and bag the clippings or mulch and discharge. This type of mower usually has smaller blades, because they make a few passes at the grass in order to shorten it. It may sound like a tedious choice, but it’s actually a better choice for lawn care.
If you go for a 2-function mower, you will notice that your lawn looks healthier. However, this is not the option I would recommend for tall grass. So if you have types of tall grass on your land or often like procrastinate grass cutting, then go for the 3-function option.
The 3-function mower with zero turn radius capabilities can tackle tall grass without issue. Users can mulch, bag, and discharge the clippings, which you will notice all the Husqvarna zero turn mowers can do. This is the best type of zero turn mower for large amounts of grass.
Do you want a zero turn mower with headlights and even tail lights? It’s less of an issue if you always operate your Husqvarna zero turn mower during the day. For those who want the option to use the mower at any time of the day without limitations, then this is a feature to look for.
Cutting Performance
It’s no surprise that the cutting performance of a zero turn mower is a top consideration. The cutting width and height are the most important. The width is often in correlation to the size of the cutting deck, with mid-sized choices being around 45 to 50 inches while the larger ones suited for bigger properties range between 50 to 65, but there are also extra large ones that hit around 70.
Do you need such a large deck? As I mentioned, this Husqvarna zero turn mower review has shown that it will really cut your time in half, but if you go for something too large, the maneuverability will decrease. Bigger units are definitely better for tall and thick grass, but it may be overkill if you have a smaller lawn.
The issue with smaller zero turn mowers is actually stability. However, that isn’t usually a problem for regular mow jobs. Because I had the luxury of working with smaller Husqvarna zero turn mowers that were closer to 50 inches and ones that were 61, I could really feel the difference.
The smaller ones are considerably less stable. That’s not to say they weren’t well-balanced, but the bigger ones just gave a more stable operation. The smaller ones also had more trouble with traction, which was really noticeable on large acreage. 50 inches are considered mid-size zero turn mowers, so all of these elements weren’t as noticeable as they would be on a 34 inch.
The type of terrain will also impact the cutting performance of your riding mower. If you have sloped areas or sandy ground, smaller zero turn riding mowers will have more trouble.
All that being said, I made sure to pick zero turns that range between 50 to 61 inches in size, which all perform exceptionally on various terrains and in different conditions.
One thing I will stress is to have a Husqvarna zero turn mower capable of height adjustments. Without this, your zero turn mowers will meet their match when facing off with thick grass and ones of a certain length.
For a regular string pull start system push mower, most of us wait until the grass has gotten to a certain height before mowing. But if you have a zero turn riding mower with adjustable heights, you can move the blades up or down to find the necessary setting to cut at the right length. Common adjustments are usually set at a quarter or half an inch increments.
Engine Power
Engines in zero turns like the Husqvarna Z242F have a horsepower (HP) [1] rating, similar to cars. The higher the number the more powerful the engine is. For the sizes of the zero turn mowers on this list, 24 to 27 HP ratings are the most common.
The faster the engine is, the more efficient your Husqvarna zero turn lawn mower will be. Again, based on my experience and expertise, it all depends on the job at hand. If you own a landscaping business, then you most definitely need a Husqvarna riding lawn mower with a lot of power.
For those who just want to get through their own property quickly or usually operate on small-scale properties, then a lower horsepower will do.
There are Husqvarna zero turn lawn mowers with Kawasaki, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton engines. Let’s take a closer look at what benefits they can yield for the rider.
Briggs & Stratton prides themselves on reliable starts, efficient fueling, and more power. Their engines usually withstand temperature changes quite well and start with a push of a button or the turn of a key. This system completely eliminates choke and starts when you want it to.
Some of their engines also provide better engine protection with an anti-vibration system that works to increase engine life and efficiency.
Kohler engine has commercial features for heavy-duty use. Kohler engine designs have cast-iron cylinder liners, Consistent Cut Technology which obliterates tall and thick grass, and Smart-Choke Technology. EFI engines from Kohler offer more power for less fuel to optimize efficiency.
There are a variety of Kohler engines for lawn care, but they all have one thing in common, which is longevity.
Kawasaki is another common engine for a Husqvarna zero turn riding lawn mower. Kawasaki engines were the first ones to be SAE certified, and of course, they also have a line of various engines that can power lawn mowers.
The FR and FD series are often found in zero turn mowers and they deliver smooth power outputs.
Which is the best engine choice? They are all excellent options, but what’s most important is the HP. Riders must first define their tasks to figure out the best HP.
For large commercial properties and use, I suggest going for a higher HP. For larger residential use or small scale properties, a lower HP within the 20 to 25 range would be sufficient.
Safety Features
Husqvarna zero-turn mowers have various safety features, ensuring a secure operation. These features include ROPS (Roll Over Protection System), head and tail lights for enhanced visibility, engine lubrication, a seatbelt for added security, a reliable braking system, and an automatic choke system, among other essential safety measures.
Let’s start with the ROPS, or Roll-over Protection System. Not every Husqvarna zero turn mower will have ROPS, but they are usually found on smaller models for the reasons I mentioned above.
Smaller riding mowers are usually less stable than larger ones, which is why ROPS are better utilized on these models. When in use, it’s important to keep the ROPS in the raised position. Doing so will eliminate the chances of the rider being pinned under the machine in the case of a rollover.
Not all Husqvarna zero turn feature lawn mowers will come with seatbelts, but if your zero turn does, make sure to wear it at all times. A cup holder seems like an added bonus, but I feel that it can be classified as a cupholder as well. Why? Because most of us take over an hour to mow through their properties, and it’s usually done in the morning.
It’s nice to enjoy a steaming cup of joe on top of your lawn mower and feel the powerful engine through the reinforced cutting deck. As you can probably imagine, a jostle or bump on rough terrain can splash steaming hot liquid all over you, which can also cause you to swerve. The presence of a cup holder, an unassuming feature, can eliminate this possibility.
Anti-vibration systems may also be equipped in zero turns. This feature will make the mower more stable and the rider more comfortable, but it also prolongs engine life.
The braking system is important in any vehicle, and it remains true for a riding lawn mower. The right zero turn mower will have intuitive controls that are easy to understand, including the braking system. Many Husqvarna zero turn mower models have an auto parking brake that activates and deactivates by moving the levers.
Then there is the automatic choke system, which is responsible for the regulation of air and fuel onboard your zero turns. During startup when the engine is warming, the auto choke system will kick in to regulate the air and fuel percentage to the proper ratio. This will keep the engine in tip-top shape in all conditions.
When picking out your new zero turn mower, check to see if it has a rear engine guard. A rear engine guard will give your mower additional protection against any impact or debris, which makes the mower itself much more durable as well.
If you have a full pressure lubrication system onboard, then it makes refueling easier. Machines and engines can damage over time if they are forced to run until the very last second without fuel. With the lubrication system, you will take much less time refueling and the engines and gears will stay well oiled.
The best zero turn mower will also have headlights or tail lights – for those who do not want any operation limitations. You have to see where you’re going, and that’s a given when operating any vehicle. If you’re doing most of your mowing during the day, then this isn’t a very big problem.
However, for consumers who want the flexibility to mow at any time or don’t want to do a rushed job because the sky darkens earlier in winter months in some parts of the world, look for head and tail lights. It’s also useful for spotting little critters that are scurrying across your property.
Maneuverability and Comfort
The maneuverability ties into the cutting deck size as well as your experience. However, the best zero turn mower will definitely have some features aboard that make mowing an easier task.
First of all, look for an ergonomic control panel with everything clearly labeled. The levers should be easily accessible as well as the foot controls. Everything needs to work together intuitively for a smooth ride.
You have to check every detail before making such a pricey purchase to make sure the machine will provide a great deal of comfort. For larger land, it can take you hours to get through all the grass. What’s worse than sitting on top of an uncomfortable seat? You will end up with a lot of back pain and aches throughout your body.
Start with looking at the rear wheels. They should be much larger than the front wheels to provide excellent balance and stability. The larger wheels will also share in absorbing vibrations, which can really cause your rear to take a beating.
If you don’t have perfectly flat land, the larger wheels will also improve the efficiency of the Husqvarna zero turn lawn mower by taking stress off of the front wheels and the rest of the unit. The larger wheels are also a safety feature because they create more stability aside from comfort.
Lastly, I am going to spend a little more time diving into the details of the seating area. This is where you will be spending all your time onboard the riding lawn mower, so you have to make sure it is adequately padded. For those who take on long and arduous cut jobs, make sure the seat has a high back.
Smaller seats will only support your lower back. While this could be enough for an hour or maybe even 2 for the more resilient ones, but any longer than that could really cause some serious aches and pains. A high-back chair provides complete support to the whole of your back, which also prolongs your working time.
Another feature that may seem like a passing thought but can actually increase comfort by 100% is an armrest – or two. Having a place to put your elbows during a ride can take the strain off of your wrists, arms, and shoulders. I mentioned the cup holder, which many of us feel like it is a necessity, and one more feature is an anti-slip pad.
It could be a foot pad or the entire foot area of the zero turn mower could be anti-slip. This is a comfort and a safety feature that gives you a strong foothold when operating the machine.
Maintenance
How high maintenance is your vehicle? These Husqvarna zero turn mower reviews included analyzing the storage and maintenance of each unit. The engines need proper care to avoid issues when your Husqvarna mower fails to start, as most vehicles do, but Kawasaki, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton create excellent machines that don’t require much but a checkup once in a while.
Hydrostatic transmissions are also very low maintenance. These transmissions offer a much smoother ride as they use fluid to transfer power. When you purchase your zero turn mower, it will most likely come with a user manual that includes a maintenance schedule.
This time frame will vary from brand to brand, but I strongly recommend following what’s outlined by Husqvarna to the letter. This will ensure that your mower will operate at peak capacity for longer and it keeps the rider safe as well.
Common mower maintenance includes checking the oil and spark plugs, but the air filter is important as well. If the air filters are clogged with dirt and grime, your unit won’t be able to burn through fuel as efficiently. This is why it’s necessary to check the filters regularly and clean them out.
Maintenance of the cutting deck is a no-brainer. In order to optimize grass lift and enhance the cut quality, you have to clean the mower deck. This is the area of the mower that comes into contact with all the clippings, dirt, sand, dust, debris, and anything you meet along the way. You can imagine the amount of buildup that can accumulate without proper care.
Although most people may not want to do it after a long mowing job, I still recommend cleaning the blades after each use. It won’t take very long, just take a clean rag and wipe off the blades. Be careful when doing this as the mower blades can be sharp, so I recommend wearing gloves.
Aside from crusting up the blade and making it more difficult for your mower to cut, leaving dirt and grass on the surface of your blades can lead to corrosion. That alone should be enough incentive to keep the blades clean.
The mower blades can also be sharpened, and it’s inevitable that they will dull over time. Luckily, grass isn’t much of an abrasive material so it will be a while before you need to think about blade sharpening. I say 2 to 3 times a year should be enough depending on your usage.
You can choose to sharpen the blades on your own, but I don’t recommend it unless you’re very experienced. There are plenty of saw blade sharpening services around, so just one up that’s close to your location.
The tires also require regular maintenance so it’s good to check the tire pressure before you take the mower out for a spin. Uneven tires can lead to uneven cuts, which is not something you want if you’re going for a pristine lawn.
Lastly, the storage of your unit is also crucial in prolonging its lifespan. You have to keep the mower away from the elements. Constant rain, snow, sleet, wind, and sun will do it no favors. Not only will it damage the engine and inner components, but the paint will fade, the seat will crack, and in the end, the mower just won’t start.
Our tip is to store the mower in a garage, barn, or anywhere that’s shielded from the weather. On top of that, purchase a cover that keeps dust off of it all year round, and doing so can also prevent pests and little critters from making a home on or inside your zero turn mower.
One last consideration that will keep your mower durable and operational is the build. Materials such as heavy flat stock steel and a fabricated deck can withstand a ton of wear and tear over the years. This could save you from dealing various product issues on your Husqvarna mower in the future.
Price and Warranty
These devices are not cheap. In fact, it could be one of the priciest lawn care investments you make. This alone will make finding one with an extended and comprehensive warranty a top priority. Husqvarna offers a 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty, but you have to register your unit on their site to be eligible for the protection.
What is a bumper-to-bumper warranty? It means the warranty covers the protection and maintenance of your vehicle from bumper to bumper – but only what’s stipulated in the warranty agreement. It’s usually a very comprehensive warranty that covers all the parts and components from the front to the back bumper. If you have a zero turn mower with belt that keeps coming off, then, it can be protected using a warranty.
The warranty period from Husqvarna is not the longest, especially since it’s such a pricey unit, but it’s certainly better than just a 1-year promise. For more details about the bumper-to-bumper warranty, head over to Husqvarna’s website.
As for the price, it’s not possible to find a zero turn mower from the brand that’s offered below a couple thousand. They usually range from 3K and above, so you have to be sure you’re willing to shell out that amount.
We understand that the cost is a cause for concern for some people, but I say it is really a great investment if there is a need for it and it will last for years. What exactly impacts the price of the mower and how can you balance value for money?
First of all, the size will definitely impact the cost. Larger decks come at a higher cost. Unfortunately, if you have the need for a 61-inch deck, then there really is no way around the 6 to 7K expense. The same goes for those who need a heavy-duty machine.
One last tip before you pick out your machine is to not sacrifice quality for the price. A higher price will get you more comfort with a high-back chair, more safety with ROPS and a durable tubular frame, as well as a tougher construction.
It’s true that some zero turn riding mowers from other brands could be slightly cheaper, but does the quality compare? More often than not, you won’t get as many add-ons and bonus features as you would with a pricier unit no matter what brand you go for.
Opting for a unit that does not have these features and comes with a smaller cutting deck when you need a heavy-duty machine could cost you more in the long run. You will quickly find that the machine does not meet your needs and the replacement is another hefty expense.
FAQ
Are Husqvarna zero turn mowers any good?
Yes, Husqvarna zero turn mowers are good. They come with a variety of engines geared towards power and efficiency. You have your choice of bagging, mulching, or dispensing the grass clippings and the hydrostatic transmissions are very low maintenance. Not to mention, some models have a comfortable chair, armrests, and cup holders too.
How long do Husqvarna zero turn mowers last?
Husqvarna zero turn mowers can last for about 15 years. This is just a generalization and there are models that go for even longer. It all depends on the right maintenance and care. You should clean your mower blades after every use and store the mower properly to protect it from the elements.
Where are Husqvarna Zero Turn Mowers made?
Husqvarna zero turn mowers are American-made. More specifically, the company has factories in various states including South Carolina and Georgia. Many consumers prioritize where a machine is manufactured, so rest assured that Husqvarna mowers come with American quality control. It also makes it easier for repairs and to look for replacement parts.
Our Top Pick For a Husqvarna Zero Turn Mower:
Husqvarna Z254
The Husqvarna Z254 is the clear winner of these Husqvarna zero turn mower reviews. The unit is not as expensive as some of the larger models and it is equipped with a 26HP Kohler engine allowing it to reach ground speeds of up to 6.5 mph. The parking brake system, air induction tech, and fabricated deck come together and create one heavy-duty workhorse.
Other products you can consider:
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
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