Ryobi & TORO Battery Zero Turn Mowers are becoming more popular by the day, but are the manufacturers doing enough to provide adequate service and support for these products? We called TORO & Ryobi dealers, as well as big box stores like Lowe's & Home Depot that sell these products, to see if they are up to the task of providing servicing for the products that they are selling to their customers.
Choosing Between Toro and Ryobi: A Customer's Guide to Electric Lawn Mower Support
As battery-powered mowers become more popular, Toro and Ryobi are leading the charge. While both brands offer innovative electric mowers, the real test comes when you need support. Whether it's a broken blade motor or a warranty claim, knowing which brand has the best service department is crucial. We did our homework to find out which company truly delivers when things go wrong.
Understanding Customer Expectations
When buying an electric mower, most people are looking for a low-maintenance option. They want to skip oil changes and avoid dealing with spark plugs or blades. But electric mowers, like any other machine, can break down. So, what happens when they do? Are you prepared to haul it to a dealer miles away?
Customer Service Experiment: Ryobi's Performance
Ryobi's Servicing Network
The experience with Ryobi's support begins with finding a service dealer. Using Ryobi's dealer locator, we discovered the closest dealer was 40 miles away, with others even further. Calling the nearest servicing dealer revealed some promising points. The dealer was professional, willing to work on the mower, and offered pick-up service if needed. However, the far distance was a downside, especially considering the unpredictable nature of repairs.
Big Box Stores and Ryobi
When contacting big box stores like Home Depot, which sells Ryobi, the results were disappointing. Home Depot no longer offers repair services, transferring the responsibility back to Ryobi. This approach leaves customers feeling unsupported and the prospect of a costly or long trip for service.
Customer Service Experiment: Toro's Performance
Toro's Support Network
Toro offers a more robust dealer network, with numerous options within a short distance. Testing response and support, we contacted a Toro dealer, Main Street Mower. The experience was seamless. They offered reasonably priced pick-up service and quick estimates on repair times. Their proximity allowed for efficient service and a reassuring level of support.
Big Box Stores and Toro
The experience with Lowe's, a Toro retailer, was similarly frustrating, with uncertain guidance on where to go for repairs. Again, the lack of in-store service leaves customers without clear support solutions.
The Importance of Local Support
Choosing the right brand involves more than just the purchase price. The level of local support, dealer availability, and service efficiency are crucial factors that influence overall satisfaction. For Ryobi, fewer dealers mean longer journeys for service, while Toro's widespread network offers peace of mind with multiple nearby service options.
Conclusion: Which Brand Takes the Lead?
When considering long-term ownership and support, Toro stands out. Their extensive dealer network provides faster and more reliable service, especially in densely populated areas. Ryobi, while professional in response, struggles with dealer availability, which can lead to delays.
For anyone in the market for an electric lawn mower, do your homework. Check local service options before committing to a brand. Support your local dealers by choosing a brand that not only meets your needs upfront but continues to in the long run. Ultimately, Toro's superior support network makes it the better choice for a hassle-free experience.
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Product Discussed In The Video
- TORO TimeCutter 60V MAX 42 in. (107 cm) Zero Turn Lawn Mower (75841)
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