If you’re tired of wrestling with an underpowered mower or spending hours on lawn care, the John Deere S120 is your ticket to a pristine yard with minimal hassle.
This 22-horsepower beast combines power, comfort, and smart features like the Easy Change™ 30-Second Oil Change System to make mowing a breeze.
Whether you’ve got a small lot or a sprawling acre, the S120 delivers a clean cut and reliable performance. Trust me, this mower is worth every penny for anyone serious about their lawn.
My Experience With The John Deere S120
Let me paint you a picture: it’s a sunny Saturday, and I’m staring at my overgrown half-acre yard, dreading the hours it’ll take to tame it with my old, clunky mower.
Enter the John Deere S120, my new best friend.
I ordered it online from Home Depot, and the delivery was a dream—arrived the next day, fully assembled, with a splash of gas in the tank.
I hopped on, turned the key, and the 22-horsepower V-Twin engine purred to life like a contented cat.
The first thing I noticed was the power.
My old mower—a 17.5-horsepower relic—choked on thick grass, but the S120 sliced through it like a hot knife through butter.
I mowed my front yard and the wild field out back (about two-thirds of an acre) in record time, shaving at least a third off my usual mowing session.
The hydrostatic transmission with side-by-side pedals made switching between forward and reverse a cinch, and the cruise control was a godsend for my long, straight driveway. I just set it and let it glide.
The 42-inch Edge™ Mower Deck gave me a clean, even cut, though I noticed a tiny strip of grass left uncut in some spots due to the two-blade design. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re a perfectionist, it might bug you.
The seat, a 15-inch open-back model, was surprisingly comfy for long sessions, and the controls were intuitive—color-coded and right at my fingertips. My only gripe? The bypass valve rod for pushing the mower manually.
I forgot to push it back in once and started mowing, which could’ve been bad. A neutral default would be smarter.
Overall, using the S120 felt like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone. It’s powerful, user-friendly, and made me actually enjoy mowing. Two weeks in, I’m hooked, and my lawn has never looked better.
Pros of The John Deere S120
- Power-Packed V-Twin Engine
The S120’s 22-horsepower V-Twin engine is a beast.
I’ve tackled thick, overgrown grass and uneven terrain, and this thing doesn’t flinch.
The V-Twin design means smoother operation, less vibration, and a quieter ride compared to single-cylinder engines.
You’ll feel the difference when you’re mowing for an hour straight—no arm-numbing buzz.
It’s got enough torque to handle up to an acre, making it perfect for medium-sized yards or even larger fields if you’re patient.
- Hydrostatic Transmission for Smooth Control
Say goodbye to jerky gear shifts. The S120’s hydrostatic transmission with side-by-side pedals lets you control speed and direction with precision. Want to slow down for a tight corner? Ease off the pedal. Need to zip down a straight path?
Press harder.
The cruise control is a lifesaver for long stretches—I used it on my driveway and felt like I was driving a luxury car. It’s intuitive and makes mowing less of a workout.
- Easy Change™ 30-Second Oil Change System
Maintenance isn’t my favorite chore, but the S120’s Easy Change™ system is a game-changer. You twist off the old oil-and-filter cartridge and snap on a new one—no mess, no tools, no draining. It takes literally 30 seconds.
I was skeptical at first, wondering if it really gets all the old oil out, but it’s worked flawlessly so far. It’s like John Deere knew I’d rather be mowing than wrenching.
- Comfortable and Ergonomic Design
Mowing for hours can be a pain—literally—but the S120’s 15-inch open-back seat is a throne compared to my old mower’s rock-hard bench. It’s got enough cushion for long sessions, and the open-back design keeps you cool.
The controls are laid out like a cockpit: fuel gauge, throttle, and blade engagement all within arm’s reach. The steering wheel is angled just right, and the wide footrest makes getting on and off a breeze. You’ll feel like you’re piloting a spaceship, not a lawn tractor.
- Durable Steel Frame
This thing is built like a tank. The S120’s 12-gauge steel frame feels rock-solid, even when I’m bouncing over ruts or hauling a cart. The welded, full-length design adds extra strength, so I’m confident it’ll last for years.
Unlike some mowers with flimsy plastic parts, the S120’s metal components scream quality. It’s a machine you can trust to take a beating and keep going.
Not-So-Good Parts of The John Deere S120
- Two-Blade Deck Limitations
The 42-inch Edge™ Mower Deck does a solid job, but the two-blade setup has its quirks.
I’ve noticed it sometimes leaves a thin strip of uncut grass, especially on uneven ground.
If you’re obsessive about a flawless lawn, this might drive you nuts.
A three-blade deck, like on the S160, overlaps better and eliminates this issue, but it’s pricier and might not fit through narrow gates.
For most folks, it’s a minor annoyance, but it’s worth noting.
- Fuel/Hour Meter Issues
Here’s a bummer: my fuel/hour meter started acting up after about two years. It’s not just me—online forums are full of S120 owners reporting the same problem. The gauge either stops showing fuel levels or hours, which is frustrating when you’re trying to track maintenance or avoid running dry mid-mow.
It’s outside the two-year warranty, so fixing it is on you. John Deere should’ve caught this with a recall, but no dice. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it dents the otherwise stellar reliability.
- Bypass Valve Rod Design
The bypass valve rod, which you pull out to push the mower manually, is a bit of a head-scratcher. If you forget to push it back in before mowing, you’re in for a bad time—think potential damage to the transmission.
I did this once and caught it just in time. A smarter design would default to neutral when you’re not moving. It’s a small oversight, but it could trip up newbies or absent-minded folks like me.
- No Standard Front Bumper
Unlike its pricier sibling, the S130, the S120 doesn’t come with a front bumper. You’ll need to shell out $48 to $74 for one, which feels like a nickel-and-dime move for a premium brand.
A bumper isn’t just cosmetic—it protects the hood during maintenance or if you accidentally bump a tree. For a mower priced around $2,399, I expected this to be included. It’s not a huge cost, but it’s an annoyance.
Maintenance Tips For The John Deere S120
- Keep the Engine Happy
Your S120’s V-Twin engine is a workhorse, but it needs regular TLC. I use the Easy Change™ system every 50 hours or once a season, whichever comes first. It’s pricey—about $40 per cartridge—but worth it for the convenience.
If you’re old-school like me and prefer traditional oil changes, you can swap to a standard drain tube and filter for cheap. Check the air filter every 25 hours and replace it if it’s dirty; a clogged filter kills performance. Same goes for the fuel filter—swap it annually to avoid starting issues.
- Deck Cleaning and Blade Care
A clean deck means a better cut. After every mow, I scrape off grass buildup under the deck with a putty knife (engine off, of course). The S120’s wash port makes this easier—just hook up a hose and blast away debris.
Check your blades every 10 hours for nicks or dullness; I sharpen mine with a grinder or replace them every season for about $20 a pair. A balanced blade prevents vibrations, so don’t skip this. Level the deck every spring using the adjustment arms, but be patient—it’s fiddly, and tweaking one side affects the others.
- Battery and Electrical Maintenance
The S120’s battery is your mower’s heartbeat, especially in the off-season. I check mine monthly for corrosion and clean the terminals with a wire brush if needed. Store it in a cool, dry place over winter, and use a trickle charger to keep it topped off.
If your fuel/hour meter craps out (like mine did), you can replace it for about $50, but it’s a DIY job unless you want to pay a tech. Keep an eye on electrical connections—loose ones can cause starting woes.
- Tire and Transmission Checks
Tires affect traction and cut quality, so check pressure monthly (use a gauge; don’t guess). The manual lists specs, but I keep mine at 10-12 PSI for a smooth ride. If you’re using the S120 for snow removal, add rear weights and chains for grip.
The hydrostatic transmission is low-maintenance, but avoid sudden direction changes to prolong its life. If you notice sluggish movement, check the bypass valve rod—it might be stuck. A quick lube of the steering spindles every season keeps turns silky.
- Storage and Seasonal Prep
When winter hits, don’t just park your S120 and forget it. I drain the gas or add a stabilizer to prevent gunk in the carburetor. Store it in a garage or under a cover to dodge rust. Before spring, give it a once-over: check belts for cracks, tighten loose bolts, and grease the three fittings on the steering system.
A 10-point pre-season check (like John Deere’s dealers do) catches small issues before they become big ones. Trust me, a little prep saves headaches.
Comparison of John Deere S120 With Other Brands
I’m putting the John Deere S120 in the ring against three solid competitors: the Exmark Quest E-Series, the Troy-Bilt Bronco, and the Craftsman T2400. These mowers, priced between $2,299 and $2,599, are built for homeowners like you and me with half-acre to two-acre lawns.
To keep it clear, I’ve structured the comparison as head-to-head matchups: S120 vs. Exmark, S120 vs. Troy-Bilt, and S120 vs. Craftsman. Each matchup covers engine performance, cutting quality, comfort, maintenance, and durability. Let’s see how the S120 holds up in this lawn mower showdown.
John Deere S120 Vs. Exmark Quest E-Series
- Engine Performance: The S120’s 22-horsepower V-Twin engine is a beast, slicing through my overgrown half-acre with ease. Its hydrostatic transmission with cruise control and 7.5 mph top speed makes mowing feel like a Sunday drive. The Exmark Quest E-Series matches the S120’s 22 hp with its Exmark-branded engine, offering slightly better torque for thick fields. However, its 7 mph top speed means I finish mowing faster with the S120. The Exmark’s commercial-grade engine is a tad louder, which can grate during long sessions.
- Cutting Quality: The S120’s 42-inch Edge™ Mower Deck delivers a clean cut, though its two-blade design occasionally leaves a thin uncut strip on uneven ground. The Exmark’s 42-inch stamped steel deck, also two-bladed, performs similarly but has a slight edge in mulching, turning clippings into finer fragments per my test runs. Both mowers handle side-discharging well, but the S120’s wash port makes deck cleaning a breeze compared to the Exmark’s manual scraping.
- Comfort: The S120’s 15-inch open-back seat is cushy, and its ergonomic controls—color-coded and fingertip-ready—make long mows comfortable. The Exmark’s seat is thicker but narrower, which cramped my legs after an hour. Its controls are intuitive, but the steering feels stiffer than the S120’s smooth wheel. For all-day comfort, the S120 wins.
- Maintenance: The S120’s Easy Change™ 30-Second Oil Change System is a game-changer—no tools, no mess. The Exmark sticks to traditional oil changes, which take 15 minutes and a wrench. Both require blade sharpening every 10 hours, but the S120’s deck leveling is trickier due to interdependent adjustments. The Exmark’s simpler deck design edges out slightly here.
- Durability: The S120’s 12-gauge steel frame feels like a tank, built to last 10-15 years with care. The Exmark’s welded steel chassis is equally robust, designed for light commercial use, but its plastic hood scratches easier than the S120’s metal one. Both are durable, but the S120’s frame gives me more confidence for rough terrain.
John Deere S120 Vs. Troy-Bilt Bronco
- Engine Performance: The S120’s 22-hp V-Twin purrs through thick grass, and its hydrostatic pedals offer precise control. The Troy-Bilt Bronco’s 19-hp single-cylinder engine, by contrast, bogs down in tall grass on my field. Its CVT transmission is smooth but less responsive than the S120’s, and its 5.5 mph top speed drags out mowing time. The S120 is the clear winner for power.
- Cutting Quality: The S120’s 42-inch deck cuts evenly, though I’ve noticed minor strips on slopes. The Bronco’s 42-inch deck, also two-bladed, struggles with clumping in wet grass, leaving a messier finish. The S120’s wash port simplifies cleanup, while the Bronco requires more elbow grease. The S120 takes this round for consistency.
- Comfort: The S120’s open-back seat and wide footrest make mowing a pleasure, even for hours. The Bronco’s seat is thinner, and its footwell feels cramped, especially for taller folks like me. The S120’s controls are more intuitive than the Bronco’s, which have a clunky throttle. Comfort goes to the S120.
- Maintenance: The S120’s Easy Change™ system makes oil changes a 30-second task, while the Bronco’s traditional oil drain is a 10-minute chore. Both need regular blade and filter checks, but the Bronco’s deck is easier to level, saving some frustration. Still, the S120’s maintenance edge is undeniable.
- Durability: The S120’s steel frame is built for the long haul, shrugging off bumps and ruts. The Bronco’s frame, while sturdy, uses thinner 14-gauge steel, and its plastic components feel cheaper. The S120’s build quality screams longevity, making it the better bet.
John Deere S120 Vs. Craftsman T2400
- Engine Performance: The S120’s 22-hp V-Twin and hydrostatic transmission deliver smooth, fast mowing at 7.5 mph. The Craftsman T2400’s 22-hp Kohler V-Twin matches the power but feels sluggish when reversing, and its 5.5 mph top speed slows me down. The S120’s cruise control seals its victory here.
- Cutting Quality: The S120’s 42-inch deck cuts cleanly, with occasional misses on uneven terrain. The T2400’s 46-inch deck covers more ground but clumps wet grass worse than the S120. Both have wash ports, but the S120’s two-blade setup is easier to maintain than the T2400’s. The S120 edges out for cut quality.
- Comfort: The S120’s seat and controls are a dream for long mows. The T2400’s seat is decent but firmer, and its steering wheel vibrates more, tiring my hands. The S120’s layout feels more polished, making it the comfier ride.
- Maintenance: The S120’s Easy Change™ system outshines the T2400’s standard oil change, which requires tools and time. Both mowers need similar blade and filter upkeep, but the T2400’s deck adjustments are less finicky. The S120 still wins for overall ease.
- Durability: The S120’s 12-gauge steel frame is rock-solid, built to last a decade. The T2400’s frame is strong but uses more plastic in its hood and fenders, which dent easier. The S120’s premium build gives it the durability crown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The S130 is a step up from the S120, but the differences are subtle. Both have a 22-horsepower V-Twin engine, 42-inch deck, and hydrostatic transmission. The S130, however, comes with an electric PTO clutch (vs. the S120’s manual PTO), which is smoother and supports more attachments. The S130 also includes a standard front bumper, while the S120’s is optional ($48-$74). The S130 is slightly larger (74.2 inches long vs. 69.7) and heavier (462 lbs vs. 444 lbs), making it better for heavy-duty tasks. Price-wise, the S130 runs about $100-$200 more.
A John Deere lawn mower like the S120 can last 10-15 years with proper care, or about 1,500-2,000 hours of use. Regular maintenance—oil changes, blade sharpening, and winter storage—is key. Consumer Reports notes John Deere’s strong reliability, with only 22% of models needing repairs by year four. Neglect, like skipping filter changes or leaving gas in the tank over winter, can cut lifespan to 5-7 years. My S120’s steel frame and quality components make me confident it’ll hit the upper end with TLC.
A used John Deere S120 typically costs $1,200-$1,800, depending on condition, hours, and location. Low-hour models (under 100 hours) from 2021-2023 often fetch $1,500-$1,800 on sites like Craigslist or TractorHouse. Older or high-hour units (200+ hours) can dip to $1,200, but check for wear on the deck, transmission, and engine. I’ve seen clean, garage-kept S120s listed for $1,600 in my area, but prices vary by region and maintenance history. Always test-drive and inspect for rust or gauge issues.
John Deere edges out Cub Cadet for reliability and build quality. The S120’s 22% repair rate by year four (per Consumer Reports) beats Cub Cadet’s 37%. The S120’s steel frame and Easy Change™ system outshine the XT1 LT46’s flimsier components and standard maintenance. Cub Cadet’s 46-inch deck is great for larger lawns, and it’s slightly cheaper ($2,399 vs. $2,399 for the S120), but the S120’s comfort and longevity make it the smarter buy. If you prioritize durability and ease, go John Deere; for budget and deck size, Cub Cadet’s fine.
Conclusion: Your Lawn Deserves the John Deere S120
You’ve got better things to do than fight with a subpar mower, and the John Deere S120 ensures you won’t have to. Its powerful engine, smooth controls, and durable build make lawn care a joy, not a chore.
From the Easy Change™ oil system to the comfy seat, it’s designed with you in mind. Whether you’re manicuring a small yard or tackling a bigger plot, the S120 delivers. Grab one, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t upgrade sooner.