Common Problems with John Deere Lawn/Garden Tractors and Ride-On Mowers

John Deere’s lawn tractors and ride-on mowers are designed to mow ranch and yard lawns, move dirt, and tackle small-scale farming tasks, and they have been a trusted companion for years. Yet, they’re not without their problems and peculiarities.

From finicky fuel systems to problems with mower decks, let’s dig into the common problems that occur in our favorite green and yellow tractors and ride-on mowers. We’ll also hear firsthand from a few seasoned owners who’ve come across these problems and were able to solve them.

Below are the list of most common problems by series, and by individual model:

Table of Contents

Overview of Problems with John Deere Lawn/Garden Tractors by Series

100 Series Problems

The 100 Series is John Deere’s entry-level lawn tractor series. These tractors are perfect for small to medium-sized lawns and offer a variety of features, including a comfortable ride, easy operation, and a variety of mowing deck options. However, they are also the most basic of the John Deere lawn tractors, and as such, they may not be as durable or powerful as some of the other series. Some common problems and issues with the 100 Series include:

Engine problems, such as stalling or overheating

Electrical problems, such as dead batteries or blown fuses

Mowing deck problems, such as uneven cuts or blades that won’t engage

X300 Series Problems

The X300 Series is a step up from the 100 Series and offers more features and power. These tractors are perfect for medium to large lawns and feature a variety of mowing deck options, a comfortable ride, and easy operation. They are also more durable and powerful than the 100 Series, making them a good choice for homeowners with larger lawns or more demanding mowing needs. However, they are also more expensive than the 100 Series.

Some common problems and issues with the X300 Series include:

Engine problems, such as stalling or overheating
Electrical problems, such as dead batteries or blown fuses
Mowing deck problems, such as uneven cuts or blades that won’t engage
Transmission problems, such as slipping or not shifting gears

X500 Series Problems

The X500 Series is John Deere’s mid-range lawn tractor series. These tractors are perfect for large lawns and offer a variety of features, including a comfortable ride, easy operation, a variety of mowing deck options, and more power than the 100 Series or X300 Series. They are also more durable and powerful than the 100 Series or X300 Series, making them a good choice for homeowners with larger lawns or more demanding mowing needs. However, they are also more expensive than the 100 Series or X300 Series.

Some common problems and issues with the X500 Series include:

Engine problems, such as stalling or overheating
Electrical problems, such as dead batteries or blown fuses
Mowing deck problems, such as uneven cuts or blades that won’t engage
Transmission problems, such as slipping or not shifting gears
Steering problems, such as loose or binding steering

X700 Series Problems

The X700 Series is John Deere’s top-of-the-line lawn tractor series. These tractors are perfect for large, demanding lawns and offer a variety of features, including a comfortable ride, easy operation, a variety of mowing deck options, more power than the X500 Series, and more features. They are also the most durable and powerful of the John Deere lawn tractors, making them a good choice for homeowners with the largest lawns or most demanding mowing needs. However, they are also the most expensive of the John Deere lawn tractors.

Some common problems and issues with the X700 Series include:

Engine problems, such as stalling or overheating
Electrical problems, such as dead batteries or blown fuses
Mowing deck problems, such as uneven cuts or blades that won’t engage
Transmission problems, such as slipping or not shifting gears
Steering problems, such as loose or binding steering
Hydraulic problems, such as leaks or failure

Model-Specific John Deere Problems and Solutions

Remember, every John Deere model is unique and may encounter different issues not listed here. If you’re looking for model-specific problems and their solutions, we have individual pages for each tractor. Make sure to check them out to keep your John Deere running as smoothly as the day you brought it home.

Below are links to the most common John Deere lawn and garden tractors we’ve seen people complain about. We’ve created custom and detailed troubleshooting guides for each of them based off of our experiences and work with these models. We are continuing to expand this list:

1. Fuel System Problems Overview

The fuel system — encompassing the fuel pump, filter, and lines — plays a critical role in your lawn tractor’s performance. It’s like the cardiovascular system of your tractor, pumping life-sustaining fuel to the engine. When it malfunctions, the engine may sputter, stall, or refuse to start. “I thought I’d bought a lemon,” recalls Sam from Nebraska. “Turns out, the culprit was a clogged fuel filter. Now, I check it regularly.” A timely reminder for us all — preventative maintenance can save headaches later. Common symptoms include:

Engine may sputter
Engine may stall
Engine may refuse to start
Leaking fuel

2. Engine Problems Overview

The engine — the heart of any lawn tractor — can cause quite a stir when it acts up. Overheating, not starting, backfiring, vibrating excessively or running poorly are common symptoms of a problematic engine.

“Lost an entire afternoon to a cranky engine,” admits Emily, a small-scale farmer from Iowa. “Turns out, it was a simple air filter issue that was clogged due to years of dust.” Sometimes, the simplest fixes can alleviate the biggest headaches.

3. The Spark Plug Problems Overview

A spark plug in good condition is essential for a well-running engine. If it’s faulty, the engine may refuse to start or run unevenly and/or sputter

Bob from Kentucky swears by this advice: “Check your spark plug regularly —it’s simple but it’ll save you a world of trouble.” Sage advice from a seasoned owner of multiple lawn and garden tractors.

4. The Carburetor Problems Overview

A dirty or malfunctioning carburetor can lead to stalling, hard starts, or a poorly running engine. This nifty device mixes air and fuel for combustion — essential for your tractor’s performance.

As Fred from Ohio quips, “A clean carburetor equals a happy tractor. And a happy tractor equals a happy owner.” Common symptoms include:

John Deere won’t start
John Deere starts and then dies
John Deere backfires from running lean
Engine is sputtering and running rough

5. Transmission Problems Overview

Transmission issues can make gear changing a chore or even halt the ride-on mower or lawn tractor’s movement and potentially cause you to fall off. It’s like your tractor’s nervous system — when it’s out of sync, everything else follows suit. Some common symptoms for transmission problems include:

Difficulty in shifting gears
Grinding noise when shifting gears
Slipping gears
Stuck in gear
Leaking transmission fluid
Burning smell from the transmission

6. Battery Problems Overview

A weak or dead battery can bring your tractor’s operations to a standstill. Some common symptoms for battery problems include:

Tractor won’t start
Dimming headlights
Slow cranking
Clicking sound when turning the key

7. Starter Motor Problems Overview

Much like the battery, issues with the starter motor can prevent your lawn tractor from starting. Some common symptoms for starter motor problems include:

Tractor won’t start
Clicking sound when turning the key
Whirring noise when turning the key

8. Drive Belt Problems Overview

A worn or broken drive belt can halt the tractor in its tracks or reduce its grass-cutting efficiency. Some common symptoms for drive belt problems include:

Squealing noise from under the hood
Burning smell from under the hood
Reduced grass-cutting efficiency

9. Tire and wheel Problems Overview

Low pressure or punctures can impact your tractor’s performance and maneuverability. Some common symptoms for tire and wheel problems include:

Flat tire
Low tire pressure
Vibration while driving

10. Mower Deck Problems Overview

Damaged blades or a broken belt can hamper your lawn tractor’s cutting performance. Some common symptoms for mower deck problems include:

Uneven cutting
Poor cutting quality
Excessive vibration

11. Steering System Problems Overview

Issues with the steering system can make your lawn tractor hard to control. Some common symptoms for steering system problems include:

Difficulty steering
Loose steering wheel
Vibration while driving

12. Braking Problems Overview

Faulty brakes aren’t just a nuisance — they’re a safety risk. Some common symptoms for braking problems include:

Brakes won’t engage
Spongy brake pedal
Grinding noise when braking

13. Oil Filter Problems Overview

A dirty or clogged oil filter can lead to engine problems. Some common symptoms for oil filter problems include:

Engine won’t start
Engine runs rough
Oil pressure warning light

14. Ignition Problems Overview

Problems with the ignition system can make starting your little tractor a frustrating experience.

“I remember spending hours trying to get my tractor started. Found out it was an ignition issue,” sighs Frank from Texas. “Since then, I always keep an eye on the ignition system.”

15. PTO (Power Take Off) Clutch Problems

A faulty PTO clutch can stop your mower deck or other attachments dead in their tracks.

Jane from Florida shares her experience: “My mower deck simply stopped working one day. It was the PTO clutch — a quick fix, but it had me worried for a minute there.”

16. Hydraulic Problems

Issues with the hydraulic system can impact the operation of your tractor’s attachments. Symptoms may include a weak hydrostatic transmission, difficulty steering or driving straight, and shaking or vibrating while operating

17. Cooling System Problems

A malfunctioning cooling system can lead to an overheated engine — a surefire way to put a damper on your day’s work. Symptoms may include dirty cooling fins, damaged electrical connections, incorrect ignition settings, malfunctioning throttle cable, and a blocked air cleaner

18. Electrical Problems

Electrical problems can cause a wide range of issues, from a no-start condition to faulty lights. Symptoms may include engine running roughly due to dirty cooling fins, damaged electrical connections, incorrect ignition settings, malfunctioning choke cables, and a clogged air cleaner

Old vs. New John Deere Lawn Tractors – Which ones are better?

Interestingly, older John Deere lawn tractors — those roughly 20 years old — are sometimes considered superior to their newer counterparts. These vintage models often feature better Kawasaki engines, larger and tougher transaxles (indicated by a 5 lug wheel pattern), heavy-duty frames made from thicker steel, and more robust mower decks.

Tom from Minnesota, a proud owner of a 20-year-old John Deere, says, “They don’t make ’em like they used to. My old Deere runs smoother and stronger than some of the new models I’ve tried.”

However, this isn’t to say that newer models don’t have their advantages. Modern tractors often offer improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and advanced features for comfort and convenience. It’s a matter of personal preference and the specific requirements of your lawn or garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average life of a John Deere lawn mower?

Regular maintenance of a John Deere lawnmower typically extends its lifespan to an average of 1,000-1,500 hours. Thus–with regular use–users can expect to get several decades of service life out of their mower before needing to replace it.

Are John Deere riding mowers reliable?

Overall, the surveyed experience of John Deere riding mowers indicates strong performance and reliability across measures, making them a reliable choice for consumers.

This is especially true when considering the cost-effectiveness of the mowers, as well as the customer service and support offered by the company. The mowers are also easy to use and maintain, making them a great choice.

What causes a John Deere compact tractor not to start?

When your John Deere won’t start, it could be caused by a bad battery or a problem in the connection between the starter and the battery. Make sure all of your connections are clean and secure to ensure that your John Deere will start properly. Additionally, check your battery to see if it is still functional.