Strengths The engine itself has proven to be very reilable.

Weaknesses Throws mowing belts off like crazy...two to three each summer at $35.00 each. Paint started peeling off in big chunks after three years of use and garage kept. The mower looks ragged right now.

Overall I just bought a new Cub Cadet to replace the Deere, and the Cadet blows the Deere away in all categories.

Strengths I RECENTLY PURCHASED A NEW LA 115 LAWN TRACTOR I FIND THAT IT MOWS WELL, HAS PLENTY OF POWER CUTS LEVEL WITH A 48 INCH DECK. I HAVE OWNED SEVERAL JD TRACTORS HAVING WORKED FOR A DEALERSHIP FOR 30 YEARS

Weaknesses THE RIDE IS A LITTLE CHOPPY BUT COULD BE IMPROVED BY ADJUSTING THE AIR PRESSURE

Overall AS MOST DEERE PRODUCTS IT IS WELL WELL BUILT AND THERE IS A GOOD DEALER ORGANIZATION FOR SALES PARTS AND SERVICE

Strengths Overall appearance is good looking. I have a 21 HP motor which is very powerful and cuts like nothing thru grass that is 6-8" high. Starts well and runs & cuts grass well only on level surfaces.

Weaknesses Terrible tractor for cutting grass on unlevel surfaces. Scalpes the grass on the slightest of uneven surfaces not only when driving straight ahead but also when making turns. The deck needs 4-leveling wheels instead of two. Bagger unit is terrible and hard to use. The hook up coming from the deck shoot will not stay on and is very difficult to attach. I really don't think John Deere is in the business for manufacturing lower cost lawn tractors as they are for garden working tractors. To many issues with the performance as well as the bagging unit. I believe anybody who just wants a dependable grass cutting tractor should look at other models that just specialize in home owner weekend grass cutting. These models are designed for smaller yard landscapes and ease of use. John Deere products are better suited for garden and heavy duty use.

Overall Best rating 5

Strengths That word does not go with this tractor

Weaknesses Where do I start. After the first ring around the yard I flung the deck belt almost through my wife's car window. Then engine starts making a loud noise. Once the deck belt was repaired the engine noise did not go away. Ricthie Tractor says noise is normal! Trying to buy machine, salesman kept taking me to see z-turns. I should have listened or left then and there.

Overall I am in negotiations with local Cub Cadet dealer on trading in. Not happy at all. Do not recommend.

Strengths Comfort, ease of use, mulching capability.

Weaknesses This thing eats at least two belts a season and it's a bear to replace!Had the blade drive spindle go out under warranty. JD Dealer still charged me $356 for repairs. Said it wasn't lubed. It had been used twice. I wash it and lube it after every cutting of my residential lot. Argued wtih JD to no avail.

Overall Dissatisfied. Will sell it and go to a more reliable machine that doesn't eat belts or at least is easier to change if it does.

Strengths none

Weaknesses This thing stinks! Breaks and slings deck belt all the time! Trying to sell for $500.00, going to buy a cub!

Overall

Strengths Very easy to use and maintain.

Weaknesses So far none.

Overall This is a great little lawn tractor but you must remember that it is a light duty John Deere. Its not built to take the punishment that higher priced riders are built for. If you have under an acre of property that is flat and well maintained then you may want to look at this model. If you have more property that is hilly, rocky or over grown then don't expect this rider to satisfy your needs.

Strengths Strong built, solid

Weaknesses Only 2 deck wheels 4 would be much better and wouldn't cost that much more

Overall I find it a good mower but like anything these days could use improvements

Strengths Looks good, Has good reputation.

Weaknesses Front wheels toe in. No adjustment on rods,just preformed. The toe in looks like you turned the wheel to the left for one wheel and turned to the right for the other.When you go forward the tires drag side ways.Would probably tear grass as you go forward.Had to buy a 79.00 mulch kit.

Overall Dealed said that was normal. Told them to put it back on the trailer and want my 1850 money back. Very saddened by the quality of the front end.Looked at other lawn tractors and had adjustable front rods to correct the problem.My old 15 year old MTD never looked like that.