Why buying lawn equipment from a dealership matters

Posted on:Aug 17, 2023

Whom are you going to call for mower service, repairs and answers? Your local dealer is equipped. 

You’re looking for a mower that can handle hours on a larger lawn—a machine that can cut grass efficiently and deliver quality. You’ve got options. There’s a surplus of mower types, make and models available at a box store or certified lawn equipment dealer. What’s the difference? 

Before you shop, compare buying a mower from a box store and a dealer and the benefits you’ll gain when working with a lawn equipment professional. 

Buying A Mower At A Dealership vs. Buying At A Box Store

You might think you’ll pay less if you buy a lawnmower from the local box store, but there’s much more to the price tag than your initial purchase. When mowers are assembled at a retailer that does not have experience servicing lawn equipment, you can end up needing repairs or experiencing premature component failures while working in the field. 

When choosing the right mower, consulting an expert for additional guidance is essential. And whom will you depend on for maintenance? The box store doesn’t have mechanics on staff and the sales staff doesn’t have specialized expertise on the mowers they sell. Even to them, it's "just another mower."

Longevity is another issue with many mowers at a box store. They aren’t built to last like the equipment you find at dealerships. So, while you may pay more, you’re getting better quality, service and support from your dealer—and you won’t have to replace the mower next season. When you need answers, an experienced Grasshopper dealer is here to help. 

Higher Quality Mowers From A Dealer

Box stores sell different quality mowers than landscaping equipment dealerships, which partner with industry-leading brands (such as Grasshopper mowers). 

You might wonder why certain mower brands are sold in dealerships and some in box stores. Retailers featured in big-box stores negotiate with these stores, using less rugged materials and shaving costs where necessary to achieve the desired price point. Sure, the mowers might have the same color and logo, but they’re different mowers than the ones you’ll find from a local dealership. It might seem like a great buy, but you get what you pay for. 

Mower brands that only sell through independent equipment dealerships are committed to providing the best quality mowers, OEM parts, and certified technicians. They stand by their mowers. 

Equipped To Answer Questions—Dealership Expertise

Local, independent lawn equipment dealers are experts on the mowers they sell and service, and they can accurately answer your questions. Mower manufacturers support their dealer networks with product training and education, so they are prepared to guide you toward the best mower for your needs. Dealers can also provide mower attachment advice for implements like collection systems, edgers and snow removal tools so you can use the mower during all four seasons, maximizing your investment.

The bottom line: When making a financial decision like buying a mower, you deserve the full attention of a knowledgeable dealer who is there as a ready resource after the sale. Dealers build relationships with their customers. You won't find a similar emphasis on customer service and satisfaction at a box store.

At Your Service—Dealers Maintain The Mowers They Sell

With manufacturer-certified technicians on staff, equipment dealers can help troubleshoot issues and advise on recommended routine maintenance so you can extend the life of your mower and achieve the highest quality cut. If you buy a mower from a box store, where will you go for repairs? (Don’t expect the customer service desk to do it.) You’ll have to find a mechanic who might have general knowledge but is not an expert on the mower brand. Also, retailers might stock some select parts like mower blades, but they won’t be from the manufacturer. You will sacrifice mower performance when you settle for off-brand or subpar mower parts. 

Your servicing lawn equipment dealer is trusted by the manufacturers they represent. Mower manufacturers invest in their authorized dealer networks to deliver the technical expertise to perform routine maintenance and complex repairs when necessary. 

We know repairs and maintenance are often not top-of-mind when purchasing a brand-new mower. But service, parts and technical support are essential for all equipment. If you leave these necessities out of the buying equation, you’ll pay more than the value of your mower in repair bills. Ultimately, you’ll gain the advantage of a low-maintenance mower if you buy from a local dealer.

Depend On Your Local Mower Dealer For Answers, Service And Ongoing Support

After you purchase a mower, who’s got your back? When you buy from an authorized lawn equipment dealer, you get much more than a new piece of equipment. Grasshopper dealers sell industry-leading, high-quality, rugged mowers and provide the knowledge, service and parts you need––before, during and after your purchase.

Interested in more mowing tips from the pros at Grasshopper? Check out our library of how-to videos or sign up for our newsletter. Thinking about a new mower? Our team can help you choose the best model for your needs.