How to Drive a Zero-Turn Mower: 5-Step Guide for Beginners

You’ve got a zero-turn mower and a property to mow. Let’s get you comfortable with your new machine so you can make quick work of that grass. This guide will teach you how to drive a zero-turn mower. These instructions are tailored to Bobcat® mowers, but the basic principles are similar across most zero-turn brands.

Quick Zero-Turn Walkaround

Before you start learning how to use a zero-turn mower, check these things: 

• Parking brake is on 

• PTO (power take-off) switch is off 

• Steering levers are in neutral position 

• Check tires for air pressure 

• Check that mower is clear of grass clippings and other debris 

• Check your fluids and check air filters 

1. Starting Your Zero-Turn

Here’s a quick guide on how to start a zero-turn mower: 

• Sit in the seat 

• Set throttle to mid-high 

• Put on seat belt, if equipped 

• Turn the key to start (If it’s cold, you might need to use the choke) 

Let the engine warm up for a minute. When you’re ready, release the parking brake and ease the steering levers forward. Keep your hands firmly on the steering levers for solid control. Start at a slow speed. 

2. Getting the Hang of Your Zero-Turn Controls

Zero-turn mower controls are straightforward once you get the hang of them. The first step is understanding how to steer the machine. Instead of a steering wheel, you’ve got two steering levers—one for each side. These levers control both speed and direction. 

Here’s the basics of how to steer a zero-turn mower: 

• Go straight = Push both levers forward 

• Reverse = Pull both levers back 

• Turn Left =Right lever forward 

• Turn Right = left lever forward 

• Gradual Turn = Push one lever forward (one slightly more than the other) 

• Zero Turn = Push one lever forward, push the other lever in reverse 

• Levers in neutral position = Stop 

Pro Tip: Don’t use full throttle until you’re comfortable driving the machine.

Speed and Control Tips

Don’t feel like you need to push the levers all the way forward. Adjust speed for the situation, slowing down when you approach turns or obstacles. You’ll figure out what works best for your property as you go. 

When you’re first starting out, practice in a large, open space. Get comfortable with all the movements before you worry about perfecting mowing patterns. 

3. Mowing in a Striped Pattern

Most zero-turn mower operators go with the stripes. Here’s how to stripe your yard with a zero-turn like a professional: 

The height of your cutting deck matters for this. In summer, keep it between 4 and 4.5 inches. At this height, you’ll get cleaner stripes and a healthier lawn. 

To avoid ripping up your grass when you turn, practice your three-point turns. This involves a gradual forward turn, a gradual reverse, and then another gradual forward turn. 

4. Hill Mowing and Advanced Techniques

Hill Mowing: Always maintain a slow, steady forward pressure on the steering levers. Avoid sudden movements, sharp turns, or reversing on steep inclines (this will cause the mower to lose traction). If you need more stability, mow up and down the slope rather than across it. If the hill is too steep (over 15 degrees), consider switching to a push mower. 

Handling Wet or Soft Ground: Wet grass will reduce your traction and increase your risk of sliding. If the ground feels soft, reduce speed and avoid making sudden stops or sharp turns. If your tires leave deep ruts, the soil is too wet to mow. 

Getting Good Cut Quality on Uneven Terrain: Keep the cutting deck level to avoid scalping high spots or missing low areas. If mowing bumpy ground, raise the deck slightly and slow down to keep the cut even without damaging the grass. 

5. Shutting Off Your Zero-Turn

Done for the day? Here’s how to shut off your mower: 

• Turn off the PTO switch 

• Reduce throttle to low RPM 

• Park the mower on level ground 

• Engage the parking brake 

• Turn off the engine 

Mower Maintenance & Care

Even the best zero-turn mower will last way longer and perform way better with regular maintenance. Keep the blades sharp for a clean cut and check the transmission fluid levels periodically. Check out this video for a guide to lawn mower maintenance. 

You’re Ready to Drive Your Zero-Turn Mower

It’s easy to master your zero-turn mower: get familiar with the machine, manage your mowing speed, and practice your mowing patterns. Take those first steps, and the rest will come with time.  

Need help with your mower? If you have questions about a new model, or if your Bobcat zero-turn needs to be serviced, call Bobcat of Huntsville today!