HRX217VLA
(HRX2175VLA, HRX217K5VLA )
Features
- Electric start
- Self-propelled, variable speed Select Drive®
- 4-in-1 Versamow System™ with Clip Director® - mulch, bag, discharge, and leaf shred
- MicroCut® Twin Blades
- Worry free lifetime limited warranty NeXite® deck
- Easy starting Honda GCV190 engine with Auto Choke System
- 5 year mower warranty
$779*
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*Manufacturer's suggested retail price. Price excludes applicable taxes. Dealer sets actual selling price.
Choose your speed: Honda Select Drive®
Easily adjust the mower's speed to your stride by rotating the speed adjust dial. Then engage the Select Drive control for intuitive, comfortable speed control. Variable speed from 0 to 4 mph.
Learn More4-in-1 Versamow System™ with Clip Director® - Mulch, bag, discharge and leaf shred with no tools or attachments required
Honda's revolutionary Versamow System™ allows you to mulch, bag, discharge, and shred leaves - or even a combination of mulching and bagging! Just slide the convenient Clip Director® knob to choose how much grass is bagged or mulched. No tools or costly attachments are needed. It's the ultimate in convenience and versatility.
Learn More Watch VideoHonda MicroCut® Twin Blades: superior mulching and bagging
Honda's exclusive twin blade MicroCut System® uses four cutting surfaces that result in ultra fine clippings for superior mulching and more clippings per bag. The end result? A perfect cut, less time emptying the bag, and less work for you.
Learn More Watch VideoRust-free, no-dent NeXite® mowing deck with lifetime warranty
The HRX's 21" deck is made of NeXite®. This high impact resistant material does not dent, rust, or corrode over time. So durable it comes with a lifetime warranty!
Learn More Watch VideoReliable Honda GCV190 Engine
Easy-starting, fuel efficient, and powerful, Honda's premium residential GCV190 engines are legendary for providing years of reliable service. All Honda lawn mower engines are certified to meet 50-state EPA and CARB emission levels.
Watch VideoHonda Auto Choke™ System - easy starting
No engine choke required! Just turn the key and go!
5 year residential warranty
You can rest easy, knowing your lawn mower is covered from top to bottom for 5 full years.
Want to mulch, but worried about leaving clumps? No problem.
The Versamow System™ helps you to mulch or partially mulch even in severe conditions. Just adjust the 10 position Clip Director to the right setting for your lawn.
Learn MoreGo further before emptying the bag.
Smaller grass clippings mean more grass fits in the bag. So you can mow up to 30% farther before you have to empty the bag.
Learn MoreEasy, convenient rear discharge
The HRX has a convenient rear discharge door that improves maneuverability, eliminating the need for a separate discharge chute attachment. Clippings are directed out the bottom at the rear of the mower.
Make quick work of leaves, with no attachments necessary.
The HRX Versamow System™ makes leaf shredding easy. Tiny pieces minimize the use of leaf bags for collecting debris. No attachments or tools are necessary.
3-position Quick Release adjustable handle
The quick release handle is easy to adjust to one of 3 positions for comfortable mowing. Or fold it over for more compact storage.
Watch VideoLarge 9" ball bearing wheels
Ball bearings in all four wheels offer better maneuverability, smoother drive, and increased durability.
7 position cutting height adjustment (.75" to 4")
Convenient height adjustment levers to set mowing height for lawn conditions.
Watch VideoLarge 2.5 bushel capacity grass bag
Our large capacity grass bags are balanced so they are easy to empty, saving you time and effort.
Flywheel brake safety system
Quickly stops the engine when you let go of the flywheel brake lever.
Watch VideoManual fuel shut-off valve
The fuel valve can be shut off for transport, storage, or to perform maintenance.
Engine | Honda GCV190 |
Deck Material | NeXite<sup>®</sup> |
Cutting Width | 21" |
Mowing height range | 3/4" - 4" |
Mowing height adjustments | 7 |
Drive Control | Infinitely Variable Select Drive<sup>®</sup> |
Transmission | Variable Speed Fixed Gear Belt Clutch |
Ground speed | 0 to 4 mph |
Starter | Electric / Recoil |
Choke System | Automatic |
Throttle Control | Fixed |
Drive | Slipping Belt |
Handle | 1" Steel Tube |
Handle Height Positions | 3 |
Wheels | 9" Plastic |
Ball Bearing Wheels | All |
Standard Functions | 4 in 1 Mulch/Bag/Leaf shred/Discharge |
Bag | Standard |
Bag capacity (bushels) | 2.5 |
Blade(s) | Twin blades (MicroCut System<sup>®</sup>) |
Blade Control | Flywheel brake |
Side/Rear Discharge | Rear standard |
Dry weight | 93 lbs. |
Operating weight | 95 lbs. |
Residential warranty | 5 years |
Deck warranty (non-commercial) | Lifetime |
Commercial warranty | 90 days |
Lawn Mower Cover
Stainless Steel Guard Decks
Battery Charger
So far so good
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, December 14, 2017keembo
Papaikou, HI
Type of use: Residential
warranty no good
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, November 1, 2017charlie
Glen Rock, PA
Type of use: Residential
Fills my needs in a mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, October 30, 2017Bill
Brooklyn, OH
Type of use: Residential
Very good Product
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, September 18, 2017john
Sioux Falls, SD
Type of use: Residential
Brandnew Mower Turns off. wont stay on
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Friday, September 15, 2017Vikas
Virginia Beach, VA
Type of use: Residential
HRX217VLA fitted me best.
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, September 12, 2017Jim
Columbus, OH
Type of use: Residential
outstanding
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, September 4, 2017Chuck
Laurel, MD
Type of use: Residential
Electric Start Doesn't Work After One Use
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Friday, August 25, 2017Andrew
Hudson, FL
Type of use: Residential
I was really looking forward to the electric start. The manual start is easy but I went for the extra money and I am disappointed. The first time I mowed I assumed the battery would charge. The second time I used the mower, today, the key worked twice and no more. I had to stop several times as the weather was extremely hot.
What is the point of this electric start and charging system if it doesn't work? It is extremely difficult to go back to Home Depot with it for repairs after only the second time. At this point, although the cutting features are find, I am very disgusted with the electric start feature for all the money this mower costs.
Hopefully the last mower I ever buy!
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, August 20, 2017Frank
Dunwoody, GA
Type of use: Residential
Set up was easy and fast. Everything works so far. Speed control takes some getting used to due to use on hilly and sloping lawn. First cut on very high grass and weeds at full mulch which left numerous shreds of uncut grass. Next cut will be at full bagging and not so high grass. I expect better performance. Quality is very good.
Back to Honda Mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, August 1, 2017Don
Broken Arrow, OK
Type of use: Residential
I've gone back to a Honda lawn mower after owning two Hondas then switching two other brands. Both of the
other brands were Honda powered but neither would cut and/or mulch like the Hondas. I will stay with the
Honda lawn mowers from now on!
Better then most
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, July 9, 2017Joe
Holly Springs, NC
Type of use: Residential
Great engine and well built. Mows very well and does as advertised. Bags and mulches better then most of its competitors. One of the highlights is the mower deck not being metal is awesome. Does not build up grass like most other mowers.
The only negative is the wheel height adjusters are a little hard to move. Won't matter if your not moving them every time you mow.
Premium price for a premium mower.
Fantastic Purchase
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, June 19, 2017Keith
Bellingham, WA
Type of use: Residential
Honda Self Propelled Electric Start HRX217K5VLAA (GH)
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Friday, June 9, 2017Reliable
Hermitage, PA
Type of use: Residential
This review is for my recent purchase of a Honda Self-Propelled Mower with Electric Start. Model #HRX217K5VLAA GH Please note: You should update your site to include my Model #...I had to choose the selection for Model #HRX217VLA since my Model # was not listed.
1. The mower has "wheel-hop" when using even the Lowest self-propelled setting. Of course this can be dangerous if you are not expecting it to happen. (Possible solution: Increase the angle of the handle one or two more settings to allow a little more stability and ergonomic comfort when mowing.)
2. The Mower Bag often seems impossible to completely empty. (Always grass clippings in the corners of the bag which get caught under the metal structure framework. And, once the bag is filled the weight of the clippings tend to pull the front wheels off the ground.) Also not safe for one and all...
3. A plastic wedge would have been nice to place in the rear discharge area to keep out the unexpected pile of grass clippings that fill this cavity when the mower is in Mulch Mode. (Cleaning this is a turnoff and time consuming.)
4. Maneuverability could be better in tight areas. (Perhaps the above mentioned "Increase in the angle of the mower handle" could limit this problem as well as some of the "wheel-hop" when engaging the rear wheel drive.)
5. So far, the Electric Start Feature Does Work as it should. (I saw many complaints on this from other reviews.)
6. After only 6 or 7 mowings, I noticed the edges of the Nexite Mower Housing is already starting to scratch on both sides. (Perhaps the affected area could have been vinyl coated.)
7. There is an open area under the mower that leaves the drive belt exposed and this fills up with grass clippings. We faithfully cut every week here so this is not from extra long grass pile-ups. (I would have preferred this area to be less exposed.)
8. The 190cc engine seems to be powerful enough to handle the cutting tasks.
9. The Honda Mulching Blade Stacked Configuration may be the cause of the "uneven cuts" many are complaining about. (I would prefer a different configuration in the placement of the blades to get a more even cut and better follow-up with the second blade making a better second cut after the initial cut.)
10. If anyone in the Honda R&D or Engineering Department reads this I would appreciate the expertise of your response.
unpacking
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, June 7, 2017TONY
ALLISON PARK, PA
Type of use: Residential
An Amazing lawnmower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, May 27, 2017D.W. Daniels
Waterloo, IA
Type of use: Residential
I was relieved to receive my new mower on May 24, 2017. I waited eight days for delivery. The box enclosure was beaten and the handle bars were sticking out the end of the shipping box. But there was no damage to the mower itself. I do believe the mower should have been better supported inside of the shipping box.
Set up was easy, I did install the optional mower deck guard kit, P/N: 06761-VHT0000AH. Used four 6" wood clamps to secure a tight fit before drilling the second hole. This is a must accessory, and should be standard. The electric start worked first turn of the key after adding oil and gasoline. The select drive control took a little trial and error to figure out how it was suppose to work. I am 6'2" and do wish the handles would or could be adjusted a bit higher.
I set the blade height at #3 and full mulch. The HRX217 is easy to control, I have a lot of shrubs to mow around the unit is much easier to maneuver with back & forth motion. I have about a ¼ acre with half on a hillside it goes up hill with little or no effort, nice. Can this mower be washed when hot or will the bearings suck water and destroy them?
Happy with my purchase
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, May 25, 2017Glenn
Loudon, TN
Type of use: Residential
AWESOME!!
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, May 24, 2017HAPPY MOWER
South Yarmouth, MA
Type of use: Residential
So far, this mower is nothing less than FANTASTIC!!!
Have now mowed three times and it runs beautifully. That second blade really cuts well through thicker patches. Easy to start and easy to maneuver. I LOVE it!!
?
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, May 22, 2017WALTER HEGER
CROWN POINT, IN
Type of use: Residential
HRX217VLA Lawn Mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, May 18, 2017Steve
Warwick, NY
Type of use: Residential
Excellent mower, the features are very simple and easy to use. The mulch blades are phenomenal they make the lawn look great. The engine is quite and clean. The clip director knob for bagging, mulching or a combination of both are a great design. The select drive control is very impressive makes mowing easy and fun.
The electric start is a great asset with a backup of the manual start if there is ever a problem. You can't loose with this mower. I would highly recommend this to anyone.
Unbelievable what I've been missing!!!!!!!!!
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, May 9, 2017Brian
Parrish, FL
Type of use: Residential
I've had a Toro Personal Pace Recycler for almost 10 years now. It wasn't dead but was dying. I decided it was time for a new Toro but decided to do some research first. Glad I did. All signs pointed to Honda and when I really broke the price down I couldn't find a reason not to order. Wow best decision ever.
Right out of the box it took me a little more than 2 minutes to set up and crank. Started immediately. I decided to torture test it right out of the box. I have lemon grass all over the yard and hate cutting and bagging it. I decided to see if this mower could handle it. Boy did I have no clue. In a little over 2 minutes this thing chewed through what would have taken me at least 10-15 minutes to bag. And used half the space in a trash bag. It then made quick and easy work of the yard in record time. The self propelled mechanism on the Honda is far and beyond the personal pace system on a Toro. Cutting my lawn was effortless.
Could not even imagine a way to be happier with this purchase.
In love
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, May 9, 2017Envieddesigns
Perth Amboy, NJ
Type of use: Residential
HRX217VLA
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, May 8, 2017Nor
Warwick, RI
Type of use: Residential
Honda
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, May 3, 2017Ole
Overland Park, KS
Type of use: Residential
Honda Consumer
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, May 1, 2017Arthur
Wichita, KS
Type of use: Residential
Clean Cutter
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, April 23, 2017Diesldoc
Puyallup, WA
Type of use: Residential
Wilson Green(owner)
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, April 23, 2017Bill
Endicott, NY
Type of use: Residential
Excellent mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, April 4, 2017'Jack
Centerville , OH
Type of use: Residential
I use to have a small lawn business after I retired, about 30 lawns. I was a believer in Toro lawn mowers until the last 7-8 years. I felt their quality had declined terribly. I purchased a generic mower to get through last season, it was too heavy and once again I was not pleased with this product. I knew I was going to purchase a Honda mower this Spring, 2017, and I kept returning to The Home Depot to see if they had their lawn mowers out yet. Last year the higher end Honda mowers that The Home Depot carried were the electric start and the NeXite deck. This year their Honda selection was not as good, the higher end were either made of heavy duty steel or they were not electric start.
While checking the mower selection the end of March the saleman stated they had 3 of last years models left. I was so happy because it was exactly what i wanted, electric start and NeXite deck. I have used the mower 3 times since I bought it and I love it. I would recommend this mower to everyone. Easy to operate, light weight, electric start, no clumping of grass, and the drive control is great.
Powerful lawn mower clean cut
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, March 26, 2017Coach
Riverbank, CA
Type of use: Residential
easy start
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, March 15, 2017Mike
Lewiston, ID
Type of use: Residential
Cutting grass for 62 years
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, February 7, 2017Mickey
Grove City, OH
Type of use: Residential
Best Lawn Mower I Have ever Owned, period.
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Friday, December 2, 2016jnh
Severna Park, MD
Type of use: Residential
new owner
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, November 16, 2016DOC
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Type of use: Residential
Very well engineered!
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, November 2, 2016Rick
Salem, SC
Type of use: Residential
Concerns
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, November 1, 2016ken
eden Prairie, MN
Type of use: Residential
i do not like the way it moves in reverse when trying to back up
the front seems too light - the wheels do not stay on the ground
i don't likle the fact that i had to purchase a battery charger the first weekend
i cannot get the battery charged while using the mower
hope this mower was worth the investment
So far it's fine....
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, October 22, 2016utahjock
Bountiful, UT
Type of use: Residential
lawn mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, September 29, 2016joe
schenectady, NY
Type of use: Residential
Great Mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, July 10, 2016Alan L
Bixby, OK
Type of use: Residential
Works well out of the box!
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, July 9, 2016Hate Mowing
Hilo, HI
Type of use: Residential
Not all that
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, July 9, 2016Nate
Fayetteville , NC
Type of use: Residential
Takes getting used to
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, June 27, 2016Des
Camp Hill, PA
Type of use: Residential
Self Propelled Mower with Electrical Start
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, June 22, 2016Lois
Spokane Valley, WA
Type of use: Residential
1ST cUT
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, June 18, 2016CHIEF
NORTH PORT, FL
Type of use: Residential
I CUT FOR OVER AN HOUR AND A HALF;;;;;STARTER DID NOT SO MUCH AS TICK
VERY DISAPPOINTED
Best Mower Ever
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, June 15, 2016Roger
Rochester, NY
Type of use: Residential
As always, Honda Quality
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, June 6, 2016Bill
Ellisville, MO
Type of use: Residential
This is my second Honda lawn mower, and they keep getting better and better. The new drive system took a little getting used to but once I adjusted to it, it worked to perfection. Also the electric start is awesome and much appreciated when you have a bad back. That's why you buy Honda products, pure quality!
P.S. The other Honda mower still runs like a champ, but I bought the new one for the electric starter
Hate this mower!!
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, May 23, 2016Plynn
Philadelphia, PA
Type of use: Residential
Purchased this mower in March of 2014, it has seen two mowing seasons, since owning I have had to bring it in for service twice because the autochoke would fail and I could not get the mower to restart when the engine had warmed up. The autochoke was replaced both times, but after the second replacement it seemed to be fine. In addition to that problem the electric start is randomly none existent, also this mower has always left random blades of uncut grass.
I have tried every suggestion from Honda and searching on the net, service dealer tells me there is nothing wrong, I have documented pictures of the random blades sticking up about a hour after I cut and I have to re mow the lawn, I have also read other people having this problem so it's just not me or something I am doing wrong. This will be the start of my third cutting season and after two mows I can't deal with it anymore. I just placed an order for a new Cub Cadet, I owned a Cub Cadet prior to this Honda and never had a single problem in the several years I owned it. This Honda will be going on Craigslist.
Nice mower EXCEPT for the starter
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, April 28, 2016DCN
Sandy, UT
Type of use: Residential
This is a nice lawnmower except it will not keep enough of a charge to start it each time. I like the variable bagging system and the blade.
We have run it several times for 45 min to an hour each time and it still won't start when cold. The local dealer said to get the expensive charger. If this mower needs a charger most of the time, why doesn't Honda ship it with one.
Another feature would be nice would be a maximum speed setting. Several times when we hit a high grass area that slows the mower down, we accidentally push forward and it takes off - fast.
Horrible mower!!! Do NOT buy!
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, April 26, 2016J.S.
Portland, OR
Type of use: Residential
I'm on my second one of these after repeated issues with the first one I purchased from a local dealer. Apparently the type of fuel required for these delicate mowers does not exist because no matter how new, stabilized or premium the fuel is, it apparently is still the cause for the catastrophic engine damage I caused according to Honda. The letter I received from Honda regarding my issues was quite condescending to say the least.
At least the manager who sold me the first mower felt this to be extraordinary and offered to exchange the old one for another new one of the same model, the HRX2174VLA. Not even five times around the yard and I already have a "dirty carburator" due to "bad ethanol fuel." Nevermind that it's completely new fuel and I put stabilizer in it. I don't leave fuel in the gas tank and run it dry.
Now I have to pay for yet another repair on a mower that's not even 6 months old. I will never buy another Honda and certainly not anything with the Honda name on it. This is robbery pure and simple. These mowers are complete garbage with a Cadillac price. Whatever you spent to purchase one of these, plan on doubling that value because it'll cost you hundreds to repair.
I plan on selling this mower as soon as I get it back, taking my losses and buying a different brand. I can't do this anymore.
Not up to Honda Standard
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, April 9, 2016MLW
Swainton, NJ
Type of use: Residential
Poor Design, I do not recommend this mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, November 17, 2015Mower man
Ogden, UT
Type of use: Residential
A piece of garbage.
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, October 13, 2015joelm
Victoria, MN
Type of use: Residential
A badly designed product. It gave me a lot of headaches.
Has a major design flaws with handler and engine.
On first season (a brand new) I lost all the bolts, screws that holds handler.
I had a difficult time to find replacement. I decided not to use factory screws , because of a design flaws that problem will persist after replacement. Naturally mower vibrates and if you have uneven surface, many turns, bumps then handler will come off.
Another problem is with its engine. It burns oil very badly. You have to check oil every time you start the engine (it is fine printed in the manual). If engine stops working because of it is oil dry then Honda warranty will not cover it. I think this is show stopper. In my view this is a crime. Engine should not burn oil. It emits toxic substances into air that you breeze during the operation of mower and it is bad for environment in general. It reminds me engine of early 20th century that you need to keep adding oil to it in order to operate. Apparently, Honda engineers stock with that area of thinking.
My neighbor for example has Toro mower for 10 years now and according to him he even did not change the oil for that many years and never adds any drop of oil and it is working fine.
I purchased it mainly because of advertisement about it is noise reduction features. But, it is still loud.
I have contacted to Honda and tried to get rid of this piece of garbage that they call a lawn mower. But, Honda refuses to do anything about it. I think, this product should be recalled.
Thanks for the Home Depot. They listened my problem and agreed to take it back even though a return period has passed for a long period of time.
From now on will not trust Honda. Will not consider even their cars, trucks.
BAD MOWER- BAD HONDA
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Friday, September 11, 2015MIKE
DEPOE BAY, OR
Type of use: Residential
WORST LAWN MOWER I'VE EVER BOUGHT. MOWED MY LAWN 6 TIMES, CLEANED IT 6 TIMES, CHANGED OIL 1 TIME, AND AFTER ALL THAT, I HAD TO HAVE IT REPAIRED, BECAUSE WATER GOT ON THE COLD START LINKAGE AND CORRODED IT SO IT WOULDN'T WORK AND WATER GOT ON THE ELECTRIC WIRING AND ELECTRIC PARTS SO THE KEY START WOULD NOT WORK.
SO FOR $650.00, IF I MOW MY LAWN APPOX. 6 TIMES OR SO, I GET TO SPEND AN ADDITIONAL $53.00
TO GET IT FIXED. WHAT A BARGAIN! AT $53.00 FOR REPAIRS EVERY 6-8 WEEKS, I CAN TRUTHFULLY TELL YOU I CAN'T AFFORD TO EVER BY ANOTHER ONE!!!!!!!! IT'S A PIECE OF JUNK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Honda Lawn Mover - unsatisfactory workmanship
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, July 19, 2015Sohan Rahi
Somerset, NJ
Type of use: Residential
Opened and as per instruction Manuel filled with gas and supplied bottle of engine oil. Self-start did not work. The instruction stated that "start the engine with pulling the string and use it for about couple of hours to recharge the battery that may drain and loose power due to shelf life. The self-start again did not work and it looked that there was no charge. On the morning of July 15 I contacted the supplier Movers Direct. The lady there told that since the item has been gassed, they can’t accept it back and that I need to talk to Honda technical support at their phone #770-497-6400 and she transferred me to that number. They told me to contact the Honda dealer and gave me telephone # 7329680778 in Bond Brook area in New Jersey or asked to talk to Honda dealer in Belmead. I spoke to Honda dealer in Bond Brook. They told me that since the time is brand new received only a few days back, I need to talk to the supplier. I again called the supplier Movers Direct and spoke to Katty and her supervisor Sherry but they told me the same thing again and said they accept no responsibility for this defective item and that since Honda has five years warranty, I need to talk to them for this. Again I was transferred to Honda tech support at 770-497-6400. Spoke to Mike. He again wanted to pass the buck back to the Dealer and asked me to take this item to them. But when asked to speak to the Manager for purpose of my record and that of my attorney, he took the details of the Lawn Mover, its model and serial # and the supplier and the date of purchase and my contact phone number and said that I will be getting a call from them soon. Mike called in the in the evening a left a voice mail stating that the case manager has asked him to send a new battery for the Lawn Mover and that it is being sent. It is still awaited.
I am an old person and the seventies. I went for electric start for ease of use and the name of HONDA even though the item was expensive in comparison to what is available in the market. I can not move this item myself and have no means of moving around with this item. I fail to understand as to why Honda or the supplier does not accept their responsibility for supplying a defective item? Why I am being bounced from here to there and nobody is ready to take any responsibility for this defective item? The did not pay to buy a machine that is defective from the very beginning. I am quite frustrated and want this item either to be replaced or refunded immediately.
New HRX2174VLA mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, July 15, 2015NJ
Coral Springs, FL
Type of use: Residential
nice mower but
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, July 14, 2015el gato
HARVEYS LAKE, PA
Type of use: Residential
Electric start
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, July 4, 2015Norm
York, ME
Type of use: Residential
This if my 4th Honda mower in 21 years. I just bought it the morning and went to mow my lawn. The electric start did not work. It seemed to not be engaging the clutch. So I went and started it manually. It ran fine and I mowed my half acre of lawn. When I finished, the electric start battery seemed to be pretty dead.
Really does a nice job cutting the lawn ( I mulch) but I am not looking forward to lifting that into the trunk to take it for repair. These days that is a 3 to 4 week proposition.
Horrible Product - Do Not Buy
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, July 2, 2015Unhappy Customer
Ringwood, NJ
Type of use: Residential
Honda HRX217VLA
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, June 18, 2015John
Fuquay Varina, NC
Type of use: Residential
Good Machine
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, June 13, 2015Sue
Muskego, WI
Type of use: Residential
I Like the throttle control. Easy to use when mowing around trees, burms and other landscaping features. The maintenance features are easy to get at.
Best Mower Ever!!!
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, May 30, 2015TIM
MAGNOLIA, NJ
Type of use: Residential
AWESOME
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, May 27, 2015AUGI
FENTON, MO
Type of use: Residential
New Honda Lawnmower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, May 26, 2015Buddy
Huntington, NY
Type of use: Residential
great upgrage
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, May 25, 2015T
Redford, MI
Type of use: Residential
HONDA LAWN MOWER
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, May 18, 2015BOB
CONCORD, NC
Type of use: Residential
Repeat buyer
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, May 18, 2015Gary
Endicott, NY
Type of use: Residential
Missing oil manual key from box
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, May 12, 2015Rick
Hicksville, NY
Type of use: Residential
this is my second honda lawn mower , if the first one is as good as the this one I will name my next grand child after honda.when I received my new honda it was missing the manual , oil , and key one call from customer service they quickly sent out my missing items . Being a ex MARINE we have and old saying
SEMPER FI. Which means all ways faithfull
Should have bought years ago
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Monday, May 11, 2015Lucites
Penfield, NY
Type of use: Residential
Honda Mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, May 10, 2015Lawnman
St. Joseph, MO
Type of use: Residential
Easy to start
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Friday, May 8, 2015Mark
Plainfield, IL
Type of use: Residential
Best on the market
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, May 5, 2015Bernie
St. Clairsville, OH
Type of use: Residential
Just purchased a new HRR model and a new HRX model. These are the third and fourth Honda mowers I have
bought in the last 15 years. The two cost me $1400.00. My neighbors think I have lost my grip on the limb for
spending that much on two lawn mowers. I tell them I spend that much to get the best product on the market
and enable me to have a better looking lawn than them.
These mowers start on the first pull each and every time, even after sitting all frigid winter in my garage. They
cut 8" high grass like it was half that height and they never "bog down." The lawn looks "manicured" after it is
cut. Their convenience and safety features are so many that it is inconceivable to me that there could be any
more! If these lawn mowers were cars, you could say they're "loaded." Considering a new mower? Do yourself
a big favor and go to your Honda dealer first. You will buy one if you try one!
Good, but doesn't start.
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, May 3, 2015Tate
Helena, MT
Type of use: Residential
Engine does not run
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, April 25, 2015Dave
Albuquerque, NM
Type of use: Residential
Great Mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, April 19, 2015AP
Omaha, NE
Type of use: Residential
Love key start
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, April 15, 2015pagenutt
N/A, OH
Type of use: Residential
Since time has taken it's toll on my shoulders, I looked into a mowers that could be started with a key.
I looked at most, and went with the Honda and really like the ease of the electric start now.
Neighbor has one and loves it, had it for years. So it was a no-brainer.
Have not mulched with it yet, will wait till grass is dry, but so far so good!
High recommend
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, April 14, 2015Roger
Orlando, FL
Type of use: Residential
Performs as I hoped
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, April 11, 2015Bob
Omaha, NE
Type of use: Residential
Great Product
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, April 8, 2015Kevin
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA
Type of use: Residential
Satisfied Customer
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Sunday, April 5, 2015sag817
Madison, TN
Type of use: Residential
Worst mower I've ever owned
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Saturday, October 25, 2014Bill
Erie, PA
Type of use: Residential
Excellent Mower
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, October 23, 2014CutTheGrass2
Bethesda, MD
Type of use: Residential
Smart Drive not so smart
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, September 25, 2014Dave
Grand Ledge, MI
Type of use: Residential
In this price range, you expect design features to be light years ahead of mowers of half the price, but such is not the case.
Maybe it’s because I’m tall, but I could not find a comfortable position for the Smart Drive control paddles. The flat paddles are designed to be held with your palms, but are positioned to be operated with your thumbs. All of the pictures show the operator using their thumbs to press the paddles. You cannot hold a steady speed with your thumbs, and holding the flat paddles with your palms is awkward.
- Removing the grass bag requires several steps, when simply designing a different handle would make for a smooth, one step removal and installation process.
- Grass clippings collect in cavities at the rear of the mower and spill when the bag is removed. Requires extra time for cleaning. Unique to the NeXite® deck?
- Smart Drive controller with infinite positions and a locking ring instead of 5 positions would allow anyone to find a comfortable position for the paddles.
- Make up your mind: design the drive paddles for thumb use, or position them for palms.
- Rear wheel drive makes it difficult to turn and control. The mower tends to lift the front wheels off the ground as the grass catcher bag fills. Front wheel drive is a better design.
- The bottom lip of the NeXite® deck is wider than a steel deck, preventing close trimming around trees.
- I expected the engine to be quieter. It’s nearly as loud as the 16-year-old Briggs & Stratton it replaced.
- Once it was warmed up, it would not restart with the electric start (cranked, no start). Used the pull start with no problem.
The cut is smooth and even, the engine is powerful and did not bog down at all when mowing my heavy grass at 3½ inches. The grass was longer than normal due to the demise of my old mower and subsequent search for a replacement. I did not test its mulching ability due to the length of the grass, but I suspect it would do an excellent job based on the size of the clippings in the bag.
I had an incredibly quiet Honda HT3813 that performed very well for nearly 20 years. It was still running and working well when I sold it for nearly half the original purchase price. The very positive experience with that lawn tractor was the driving force behind another Honda. However, I am returning this HRX217VLA to the dealer today and getting the HRX217HZA (buying from a dealer has many advantages over the box stores or online). I’m hoping the drive system on the HZA is smoother than the VLA. Look for an un-biased review of the HZA in the coming weeks.
Electric Start - Poor Design
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, July 1, 2014Jeff
Grand Haven, MI
Type of use: Residential
I love the overall quality of this lawn mower with the exception of the electric start. After following the owners manual and after (3) attempts of charging the battery while running for at least 1 hour the electric start still does not work properly. Simply put the battery does not appear to be robust enough to turn the engine and get it to start. After about 6 seconds of very slow cranking the battery charge gives out; the pull start will start the engine on the first try.
After calling the local Home Depot they told me I'm the 7th or 8th person this summer with the same problem on the electric start Honda lawn mowers.
Honda engineering needs to revisit the design of this electric start and come up with a better solution.
Don't like the control for self-propel
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, June 26, 2014Bill
Greenwood, SC
Type of use: Residential
Have mowed my yard twice so far (~ 5-6 hours total) and my only complaint is with the drive system. It has a delay if attempting to move slowly but once it gets moving it is very, very hard to maintain speed control.
With the design of the throttle, every time the mower hits a bump or a dip, that of course makes the handle jump up or down immediately, and by having to maintain a steady pressure on the throttle, when that pressure is altered by the handle movement, so is the speed.
I have had occasions where I would suddenly either ram my body into the handle or the mower would literally jump out of my control.
This system is ideal for a golf green, but not, IMHO, a residence of any size unless it is a smooth as a green
If I would not lose so much on a trade, I would get another brand with a different drive system immediately.
My old mower had the “push harder, go faster” system, and it took a little getting used to, but by the time I had used it as much as I have this Honda, it was a part of me.
I’m hoping, but doubtful, that I’ll find some key adjustment in me and/or the mower to make this one work.
It does a magnificent job of mowing, and so far I like everything about it, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE DRIVE SYSTEM CONTROL!!!!!!!Response from Honda
Hi Bill, try adjusting the Smart Drive control. It has 5 positions, up and down. Usually this helps to solve the problem you're experiencing!wont buy one
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Thursday, May 29, 2014dave
las vegas, NV
Type of use: Residential
i bought an expensive honda because i thought that they were reliable. It is very hard to start. Have to spray ether in order to get it to start. I have to start the mower every month in the winter or it wont start in the spring. I have taken it to the dealer and they said that these mowers were just hard to start. After it starts, it runs just fine. Also the carb plugs up easily and has to be taken apart quite regularly.
Would i buy another one? NO NO NO
Superior Quality and Features
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Tuesday, May 13, 2014msg1861
FAyetteville, AR
Type of use: Residential
After the performance of my Honda 3000iu generator, when the time came for a new mower I knew Honda was what I would buy. I wasn't sure I needed all the bells and whistles of the HRX line - I just needed something that would mow grass. After shopping the available models at my local Honda dealer, I chose the HRX217VLA. After I got it home I worried I had over purchased according to my needs. After a month's use, however, I could not be more pleased. The 190cc engine is powerful and efficient; the adjustable handle allows me to easily load the mower in the truck, the shed, or anywhere space is an issue; the mulch/bag feature allows for infinite ability to adjust to mowing conditions - also important, the discharge opening into the bag is large enough that clogs are no longer an issue, even with damp or tall grass; and the twin blade cutting system eliminates those rows of clippings that have to be raked after the moving is finished; and the electric start and self propel features are a luxury after a long hot day of mowing and there's still more to do - they will save the back and shoulders, that's for sure. The Nexite deck I was unsure of; turns out it it as durable as a metal deck without the worry of rust or paint peeling, and it is impervious to gasoline spills - just don't ask how I know. The only knock I can think of is the rear discharge - gives me a couple shoes full of debris, but that's easily cured by just moving the handle to mulch and leaving it there when you're not using the bag. I cannot speak to the Roto-Stop feature, as this model does not have it. This mower may seem expensive initially(it did for me) for a "push mower", but it is worth every penny. With care this will be the last mower you buy. After a month of use at home, however, I couldn't be more happy with my choice. 190cc engine is powerful and efficient; the easily adjustable positioning of the handle makes it a snap to load into the truck, the shed, or anywhere that space is tight; the bag/mulch settings are so varied I can match any condition in my yard to either pick up debris or grind it in; and, importantly, the discharge opening on the mower is large enough that grass does not compact there and cause a blockage - even damp grass discharges into the bag easily. The double blade system totally eliminates rows of clippings in the yard, even with 6" tall grass, and the electric start and self propel features are a luxury when you've been mowing all day and you still have more yard to go.
SPEND THE MONEY AND GET THE HRX217 MODEL
Model Reviewed: HRX217VLA Wednesday, May 7, 2014TIM04678
MAGNOLIA, NJ
Type of use: Residential
Honda Lawn Mowers: HRX217VLA
HRX217VLA Features, Specs, Accessories, and Information