What was recalled
In early February 2018, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) joined forces with John Deere to announce a significant safety recall affecting a specific lineup of residential riding lawn mowers. This action was taken because these machines, known by the ZTrak™ brand name, were found to have a mechanical defect that could lead to serious injury. The recall is not limited to just one or two models; it encompasses a diverse range of popular residential units designed for homeowners who maintain larger lawns. Specifically, the affected products include the John Deere Z335M, Z345M, Z345R, Z355R, and Z375R models. These are green and yellow riding lawn mowers that feature the distinctive John Deere logo printed on the front, making them instantly recognizable to many gardeners across the country.
If you own one of these machines, it is crucial to understand exactly which units are involved, as the recall is based on precise manufacturing dates and serial number ranges rather than just the model name. The affected mowers were produced with serial numbers that begin with "1GX" and are located on the rear frame of the machine, near the engine. Because John Deere produces these mowers in various configurations and batches, the recall covers several specific serial number intervals for each model type. For instance, the Z335M models are affected if their serial numbers fall between 1GX335MB+++080001 and 080545, or between 1GX335MC+++080001 and 080020. Similarly, the Z345M, Z345R, Z355R, and Z375R models have their own unique serial number ranges that define whether a specific unit is part of this recall.
The character sequences marked by "+" in these serial numbers can vary depending on the specific production run, so it is important to check your exact serial number against the official list provided by John Deere. The recall does not specify a total number of units sold in terms of a single aggregate figure for consumers to memorize, but rather provides detailed ranges that collectively cover thousands of individual mowers. These products were sold at authorized John Deere dealerships and potentially through other retail channels that carry the brand. If you purchased any of these ZTrak models during the production periods corresponding to these serial numbers, your machine may be one of the recalled units. The announcement was made on February 1, 2018, and John Deere has been in the process of contacting purchasers directly to inform them of the issue and the steps required to resolve it.
To determine if your mower is included, you must physically inspect the machine for the model number and serial number. The model number is printed on the front of the green and yellow colored riding lawn mower, while the serial number is found on the rear frame near the engine. By comparing these numbers to the ranges listed in the official recall notice, you can confirm whether your specific unit needs attention. This recall highlights the importance of keeping track of your equipment’s identification numbers, as they are the key to accessing free repairs and ensuring your safety while using the machine.
The hazard, explained
When you sit on a riding mower like the affected John Deere ZTrak models, you are relying on an invisible safety system designed to keep you and your family safe. This system typically includes a "seat interlock" or operator presence sensor. Under normal circumstances, this sensor acts as a gatekeeper for the engine’s power transfer to the blades. The logic is straightforward: if the operator is in the seat, the blades can spin; if the operator leaves the seat, the system should immediately cut power to the blade drive mechanism, causing the blades to stop spinning.
In the case of this recall, that critical safety link has failed. Specifically, the mower’s blades can continue to rotate under power even after the operator has left the seat. This is not a minor glitch; it is a fundamental breakdown of the primary safety feature intended to prevent injury during dismounting. The mechanism likely involves a faulty sensor, a wiring issue, or a software error in the interlock system that fails to register the loss of operator weight or presence. Because the blades remain active, they become an uncontrolled hazard the moment you step away from the machine.
Why is this so dangerous? The harm usually occurs during the transition between sitting and standing. Most users dismount by swinging one leg over the side while still holding onto the handlebars or seat for balance. In that split second, your foot or leg may be dangerously close to the discharge chute or the underside of the mower deck where the blades are spinning. Because the blades do not stop as expected, they can catch clothing, skin, or limbs with significant force. A laceration hazard means the sharp edges of the rotating blades can cut deeply into flesh, potentially causing severe bleeding, tendon damage, or even amputation in extreme cases. This risk extends beyond just the operator; bystanders, including children or pets who might approach the machine thinking it is off, are also at serious risk.
It is important to understand that this hazard is not about the mower moving forward or backward. While those are risks with riding mowers, this specific defect isolates the danger to the cutting mechanism itself. You could be perfectly stationary, having just finished a cut, and still be in danger if you do not realize the blades are still spinning. This is why the CPSC has classified this as a laceration hazard rather than a crush or impact hazard. The injury comes from contact with the moving parts, not from being run over by the vehicle.
While no incidents have been reported in the official records for this specific recall, the potential for harm is immediate and severe whenever the mower is used as intended. The fact that John Deere is conducting a direct recall indicates they have identified a pattern or testing result that confirms this failure mode exists across the affected serial number ranges. Understanding this mechanism helps explain why simply turning off the ignition key is not enough; you must rely on the mechanical interlock to stop the blades, and in these recalled units, that reliance is misplaced.
Who is most at risk
The primary group affected by this recall consists of homeowners and residential landscape enthusiasts who own John Deere ZTrak™ riding mowers. Specifically, individuals who purchased the Z335M, Z345M, Z345R, Z355R, or Z375R models between the identified serial number ranges are at risk. These machines are designed for large residential properties where a riding mower is necessary to maintain efficiency and reduce physical strain. If you own one of these specific green and yellow mowers with a serial number beginning with 1GX within the affected ranges, you are part of the group that needs immediate attention.
While the mechanical failure itself does not discriminate by age, the consequences of the hazard pose a severe threat to bystanders, particularly children and pets. The defect allows the mower blades to continue rotating under power even after the operator leaves the seat. This creates a dangerous situation where a child might approach the machine thinking it is off because the driver is no longer in the operator’s position. Young children are especially vulnerable because they may not recognize the sound of spinning blades or understand that the machine is still active and dangerous. They often lack the situational awareness to predict that a blade could lacerate skin on contact, making them highly susceptible to serious injury if they wander too close to the mower while it is unattended.
Elderly users or those with mobility challenges may also face heightened risks, though not necessarily from the blade mechanism itself. The reliance on this safety interlock system suggests that a user might incorrectly assume the machine has stopped functioning when they step away, perhaps to take a break or check something nearby. If an elderly operator has balance issues or cognitive decline, they might not immediately realize the blades are still spinning if they hear only the engine idling. Furthermore, bystanders who are less physically agile may find it difficult to escape the area quickly if the mower moves unexpectedly or if debris is ejected while the blades are active.
The risk extends to anyone standing near the mower during operation or maintenance. Since the blades can rotate under power when the operator leaves the seat, any bystander in the vicinity could suffer lacerations from flying debris or direct contact with the blade assembly. This includes family members helping with yard work or neighbors who might be working nearby. The lack of reported incidents to date is reassuring, but it does not eliminate the potential for harm. The vulnerability lies in the unpredictability of the hazard; users cannot rely on the standard safety protocol that leaving the seat stops all cutting functions. Therefore, anyone in close proximity to these specific ZTrak models must exercise extreme caution until the free repair is completed.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own a John Deere ZTrak residential riding mower, it is important to verify whether your specific machine falls within the scope of this safety recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued this alert on February 1, 2018, targeting a specific set of models that were manufactured with a defect allowing the blades to continue rotating even when the operator leaves the seat. Because these mowers are visually similar and share the same iconic green and yellow color scheme, identifying your exact model requires looking at two specific locations on the machine: the front panel and the rear frame.
First, look at the front of your mower. You will see the "John Deere" brand name printed clearly on this area. More importantly, you need to locate the model number, which identifies the specific type of ZTrak mower you have. The recalled models are strictly limited to the following residential units: Z335M, Z345M, Z345R, Z355R, and Z375R. If your mower has a different model number, it is not part of this recall. However, having one of these model numbers is only the first step; you must then verify the serial number to confirm if your individual unit was included in the production run.
To find your serial number, move to the rear frame of the machine, near the engine. The serial number begins with "1GX" and is printed directly on this metal frame. Because there are many variations within each model line, the CPSC has provided precise serial number ranges for the affected units. Note that in the official records, characters marked by a plus sign (+) indicate they can vary. Your mower is recalled if its serial number falls within any of these specific ranges:
- Z335M Models: Serial numbers 1GX335MB+++080001 through 080545, and 1GX335MC+++080001 through 080020.
- Z345M and Z345R Models: Serial numbers 1GXZ345B+++064067 through 064200; 1GX345MB+++080001 through 081117; 1GX345MC+++080001 through 080095; 1GX345MD+++080001 through 080010; 1GX345ME+++080002 through 080112; 1GXZ345R+++064384 through 064764; and 1GX345RB+++080001 through 080491.
- Z355R Models: Serial numbers 1GX345RC+++080001 through 080020; 1GX345RE+++080001 through 080064; 1GXZ355R+++064088 through 064253; and 1GX355RB+++080001 through 080206.
- Z375R Models: Serial numbers 1GX355RC+++080001 through 080010, 1GX375RF+++080001 through 080327, and 1GX375RG+++080001 through 080025.
If your mower matches one of the listed model numbers and its serial number falls within these ranges, you should stop using the equipment immediately. John Deere is actively contacting purchasers directly, but if you have not heard from them, do not wait. Instead, contact an authorized John Deere dealer or call Deere & Company at 800-537-8233 (available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET on Saturday) for confirmation and repair instructions.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled John Deere ZTrak riding mowers, your immediate priority is to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and anyone else who might come near the machine. The CPSC has identified a serious laceration hazard because the mower blades can continue to rotate under power even after you leave the operator’s seat. This mechanical failure means the equipment cannot be trusted to stop cutting when you expect it to. Therefore, the very first and most critical step is to stop using the recalled riding mowers immediately. Do not attempt to operate them for any reason, including routine maintenance or moving them short distances, until they have been properly repaired. Treat the mower as if it were a live hazard until John Deere confirms it has been fixed.
Once you have secured the machine and kept it away from active use, you need to initiate the remedy process. John Deere is handling this recall by offering a free repair to correct the issue. You should contact an authorized John Deere dealer to schedule this service. The manufacturer notes that they are also contacting purchasers of the recalled lawn mowers directly, so keep an eye on your mail or phone for communication from Deere & Company. However, do not wait passively if you have not heard from them; take the initiative to reach out yourself to ensure your unit is included in the repair queue.
To get started with the repair process, you can contact Deere & Company directly by calling 800-537-8233. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET on Saturdays. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.deere.com. Navigate to the drop-down menu under Services & Support and click on Product Recall Information. This online portal will provide you with specific details about your model and help guide you toward an authorized dealer who can perform the free repair. When you call or visit a dealer, have your serial number ready, as it begins with 1GX and is located on the rear frame of the machine near the engine. Providing this accurate information ensures that the correct parts and procedures are used for your specific mower model.
It is important to remember that there is no cost to you for this safety fix. The remedy provided by John Deere is a free repair, meaning you should not be charged for labor or parts associated with correcting the blade rotation issue. By following these steps—stopping use, contacting the manufacturer or an authorized dealer, and scheduling the free repair—you are effectively eliminating the risk of serious injury from the laceration hazard. Do not delay in taking these actions, as the safety of your household depends on the mower being in a safe, repaired condition.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled John Deere ZTrak riding mowers, it is important to understand that the remedy provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Deere & Company focuses on correcting the mechanical defect rather than offering a full refund or a new machine. The primary resolution for this recall is a free repair. This means you will not be charged for parts or labor to fix the issue, and you do not need to purchase a replacement mower. John Deere has committed to contacting purchasers of the recalled lawn mowers directly to initiate this process, which is a significant advantage as it reduces the burden on you to track down specific repair instructions.
The core of the remedy involves an authorized John Deere dealer performing a free repair on your specific unit. This is the standard and most effective way to address the laceration hazard described in the recall. The issue at hand—blades continuing to rotate under power when the operator leaves the seat—is a safety-critical failure that requires professional inspection and modification. Attempting to fix this yourself or using a non-authorized service center could void warranties or fail to address the root cause of the danger. Therefore, the official path is to rely on the network of authorized dealers who have been equipped by John Deere to handle these specific repairs at no cost to you.
To initiate this process, you should contact Deere & Company directly if you have not yet received their outreach. You can reach them by phone at 800-537-8233. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET. Alternatively, you can visit www.deere.com and navigate to the Product Recall Information section found in the drop-down menu under Services & Support. This online portal is designed to provide you with specific details about your model and guide you toward the nearest authorized dealer who can perform the free repair.
It is crucial to note that this recall does not list refunds or replacements as available options for consumers. The remedy is strictly limited to the free repair conducted through an authorized dealer. While it might be tempting to seek a refund if the mower is older, the official stance from John Deere and the CPSC in this alert is focused on restoring safety to the existing equipment. By accepting the free repair, you ensure that the mower meets current safety standards without the hassle of disposing of a functional machine or navigating complex return policies. Please do not invent alternative remedies; stick to the official channel provided above to ensure your safety and compliance with the recall.
If you have any questions about the scope of the free repair or need help locating an authorized dealer, the contact information provided is your best resource. Remember, the goal here is to eliminate the laceration hazard quickly and safely. By following the official remedy steps—contacting John Deere and scheduling a repair with an authorized professional—you are taking the most responsible action for yourself and anyone who might use or be near the mower in the future.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might want to power through a weekend of yard work rather than stopping to wait for a repair. The mower works well, the grass is growing, and life gets busy. However, ignoring this specific defect turns a routine chore into a serious safety gamble. The core issue with these John Deere ZTrak models is not that the blades will suddenly stop working or fail to cut; it is that they continue to spin with significant force even after you have left the operator’s seat. This design flaw removes the primary mechanical safeguard intended to keep bystanders and the operator safe during dismounts.
The real-world consequence of this malfunction is a high risk of severe laceration. When the blades remain under power, they become an invisible, high-speed hazard. If you step off the mower while the engine is still running, or if the blade rotation engages unexpectedly as you approach the machine to check on it, there is no physical barrier to stop your foot or clothing from contacting the spinning metal. In the context of residential lawn mowing, this often happens when an operator dismounts to move an obstacle, check the deck for debris, or simply walk away because they think the job is done. Without the recall repair, the machine does not "know" you are no longer in control.
While the official records from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) indicate that no injuries have been reported for this specific batch of mowers as of the recall date, silence on injury reports does not mean the risk is low. It simply means that, so far, luck has been on everyone’s side. The potential for harm is immediate and physical. A laceration from a riding mower blade is rarely a minor scratch; it can result in deep tissue damage, tendon injury, or significant blood loss requiring emergency medical attention and surgery. You are essentially betting your physical safety against the convenience of finishing your yard work early.
Furthermore, there is an element of unpredictability. The hazard affects not just you, but anyone nearby. Children, pets, or other family members who do not realize the blades are still spinning may come close to the mower, unaware that a dangerous mechanical component is active and rotating. By delaying the free repair, you are prolonging the window during which this unpredictable danger exists in your home environment. The remedy provided by John Deere is straightforward and cost-free, making the choice to ignore it a choice to accept unnecessary physical risk for no financial gain.
Staying safe: broader tips
Owning a riding lawn mower is a significant convenience for maintaining large properties, but it also places you in control of a powerful piece of machinery that demands respect and regular attention. While the specific recall we discussed addresses a critical mechanical failure, true safety extends far beyond fixing one defect. It requires a proactive approach to maintenance, awareness of your environment, and a commitment to staying informed about product reliability. By adopting these broader habits, you can protect not only yourself but also your family, neighbors, and pets from preventable accidents.
First and foremost, establish a rigorous routine for inspecting your equipment before every use. Over time, vibration and wear can loosen bolts, damage blades, or cause hoses to fray. Regularly check that all safety switches, including the seat interlock system we just discussed, are functioning correctly. If a switch feels stiff, broken, or unresponsive, do not attempt to bypass it with tape or wire; these devices are your last line of defense against runaway machinery. Additionally, keep the area around your mower clean and well-lit. Debris such as rocks, branches, or toys hidden in the grass can become dangerous projectiles when struck by rotating blades. Clearing your lawn of obstacles not only protects bystanders but also prevents damage to your machine that could lead to future mechanical failures.
Equally important is the habit of staying informed about product safety without waiting for an accident to occur. Many consumers do not realize they can register their appliances directly with manufacturers after purchase. Taking a few minutes to register your mower, trimmer, or other power tools ensures that the company has your current contact information. This allows them to reach you promptly if a new defect is discovered in the future. You should also periodically check official government resources, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website, for new recall alerts. Subscribing to email notifications from these agencies can help you stay ahead of potential hazards before they cause harm.
Finally, consider your personal safety practices while operating heavy equipment. Always wear appropriate footwear and eye protection, and never allow children or unauthorized individuals to operate the mower. If you must dismount the machine for any reason—even to clear a clog—always turn off the engine, remove the ignition key, and wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop. These simple, consistent habits create a culture of safety that complements the technical repairs provided by manufacturers, ensuring that your outdoor maintenance remains a safe and pleasant part of your routine.