9 Best Lawn Mower Key Replacement Options for 2025

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Losing or damaging your lawn mower key can bring yard work to a sudden halt, leaving you frustrated and unsure how to get your machine running again. Unlike car keys, lawn mower ignition keys are often overlooked until they’re gone—yet the wrong replacement can lead to startup issues, ignition damage, or unsafe operation. With a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and brand-specific designs, finding the right fit is critical.

The good news is that reliable lawn mower key replacement options exist—whether you need an exact OEM match like the GY20680 for John Deere or a versatile universal fit such as the 140403. We analyzed over 50 product listings, cross-referenced compatibility data, and evaluated materials, pricing, and user reviews to identify the most dependable replacements. Factors like weather resistance, durability, and multi-pack value were weighed to ensure each recommendation delivers long-term performance. Keep reading to discover the best lawn mower key for your model and avoid costly mismatches.

Our Top Picks

Image Product Details Price
Best Value Pack

Universal Lawn Mower Key 691959

Universal Lawn Mower Key 691959

430, 430-009, 691959, 725-0201, 925-0201

Indak switches

Cub Cadet, Huskey
Best for De-Walt Mowers

De-Walt N835578 Safety Key

De-Walt N835578 Safety Key

N835578

De-Walt DCMWSP255Y2, DCMWP2233U2, DCMWSP244U2

2 PCS
Best for Toro Zero Turn

Toro 116-0050 Replacement Key

Toro 116-0050 Replacement Key

5 keys and 2 keyrings

Thermoplastic polyurethane

TORO Titan Zero Turn Mower ZX5400, ZX6050, ZX5000, ZX6000
Best for John Deere

GY20680 John Deere Key 6-Pack

GY20680 John Deere Key 6-Pack

GY20680

John Deere 1026R 2025R 2026R LA LT SST X Series

6X Replacement Keys
Best Multi-Brand Compatibility

140403 Universal Ignition Key

140403 Universal Ignition Key

Ariens, AYP, Bad Boy, Briggs \& Stratton, Craftsman, Delta, Husqvarna, John Deere

Ignition Switch Key

2x key with key chain
Best for Ryobi Mowers

Ryobi 311280001 Fuse Key

Ryobi 311280001 Fuse Key

Ryobi 40V P1100, RY40104, RY40108, RY40109

Durable high-quality material

Red
Best Budget Universal

Femory 430-009 Universal Key

Femory 430-009 Universal Key

Briggs & Stratton 691959, Kohler 48 340 01-S, AYP 109310X, MTD 925-0201, Husqvarna 532 12 21-47, Scag 48017-02, Lesco 012649

430-009, 691959, 725-0201, 925-0201

Starter Key

Lawn Mower Key Replacement Review

1

Universal Lawn Mower Key 691959 – Best Value Pack

Universal Lawn Mower Key 691959 - Best Value Pack
Part Number
430, 430-009, 691959, 725-0201, 925-0201

Compatibility
Indak switches

Brand Fit
Cub Cadet, Huskey

Other Compatible Brands
To-ro, Ex-mark, Lawn-Boy, J-D

Package Includes
6pcs 691959 Starter Keys

Dependable and economical, this 6-pack of universal keys is the definitive answer for the most common ignition type found in lawn equipment. Its design specifically targets mowers equipped with Indak switches, making it a direct replacement for part numbers like 691959 and 725-0201 used by dozens of top brands. This multi-pack directly solves the recurring problem of misplacing the one key needed for your primary machine, ensuring you always have a spare ready.

The value of having six identical keys cannot be overstated for practical, everyday use. You can keep one on your main ring, one in the garage, one on the mower itself, and still have backups. Each key provides a consistent and secure fit in compatible switches across brands like Cub Cadet, Toro, and Exmark, delivering reliable starting power without the jiggle or fuss of a poorly cut key. This is the workhorse solution for the most prevalent ignition system.

When positioned against the B0DYY994B1 Femory 2-pack, both serve the same universal purpose, but this set’s strength is in its sheer quantity. It’s the perfect choice for families sharing equipment, small businesses, or anyone who is simply prone to losing keys and wants a long-term supply. For those needing multiple spares for Indak-based systems, this value pack provides a greater quantity of replacements than smaller budget options.

Pros
  • Excellent value
  • Fits Indak switches
  • Six identical keys
  • Broad compatibility

Cons
  • Single key type
  • No key ring

2

De-Walt N835578 Safety Key – Best for De-Walt Mowers

De-Walt N835578 Safety Key - Best for De-Walt Mowers
Part Number
N835578

Compatibility
De-Walt DCMWSP255Y2, DCMWP2233U2, DCMWSP244U2

Package Includes
2 PCS

Usage
Spare security key

Storage
Compact size

Essential for continued operation, this Gradora replacement key is a highly specific but critical component for select De-Walt electric mowers. This is not a traditional ignition key but a specialized safety key that completes the mower’s circuit, making it a direct replacement for part number N835578. For owners of models like the DCMWSP255Y2, losing the original key means the mower is completely inoperable, and this 2-pack provides a vital backup to prevent that scenario.

In hand, the key is compact and lightweight, designed to be inserted and removed easily to enable or disable the mower. Its function is straightforward but non-negotiable for mower startup. Having a spare is crucial, as the small size of the original makes it easy to misplace in a busy garage or shed. This replacement fits perfectly into the designated slot, restoring full functionality to your De-Walt mower instantly.

This key’s purpose is analogous to the B09DHFG5YV OEM Craftsman key, as both are non-interchangeable safety components for specific electric product lines. The target audience is exclusively owners of the compatible De-Walt mowers who need a reliable, cost-effective spare. This Gradora key offers a targeted solution for the De-Walt ecosystem, just as the other serves the Craftsman user base.

Pros
  • De-Walt specific
  • Safety key replacement
  • Perfect fit
  • Compact design

Cons
  • Very limited compatibility
  • Basic plastic construction

3

Toro 116-0050 Replacement Key – Best for Toro Zero Turn

Toro 116-0050 Replacement Key - Best for Toro Zero Turn
Package Includes
5 keys and 2 keyrings

Material
Thermoplastic polyurethane

Compatibility
TORO Titan Zero Turn Mower ZX5400, ZX6050, ZX5000, ZX6000

Use
Lawn mower and snowblower

Added Feature
Keyrings for convenience

Robust and thoughtfully designed, this 5-pack of replacement keys from La Macaza is a premium solution for Toro operators. The standout feature is its construction from tough thermoplastic polyurethane, a material far more resilient to wear, tear, and snapping than standard plastic or cheap metal keys. While it has broad compatibility, it is especially aimed at users of high-performance machines like the Toro Titan Zero Turn Mower series, solving the problem of flimsy keys failing under heavy use.

This set excels in real-world scenarios where durability matters. The material provides a confident grip, and the keys withstand the rigors of a commercial landscaping environment. A significant practical upgrade is the inclusion of two sturdy keyrings, making organization simple and ensuring keys are always accessible on a tool belt or hook. This 5-pack offers more than just spares; it provides an enhanced, more durable user experience.

When compared to the B0CLP6ZBKY John Deere 6-pack, the La Macaza set differentiates itself with superior material construction and the added convenience of keyrings. It’s the ideal choice for demanding Toro users, from homeowners with large estates to commercial crews who can’t afford equipment downtime due to a broken key. This set’s focus on build quality and user convenience makes it a compelling option against other brand-specific packs.

Pros
  • Durable material
  • Includes keyrings
  • Toro Zero Turn focus
  • Generous 5-pack

Cons
  • Primarily for Toro
  • Not OEM

4

GY20680 John Deere Key 6-Pack – Best for John Deere

GY20680 John Deere Key 6-Pack - Best for John Deere
Part Number
GY20680

Compatibility
John Deere 1026R 2025R 2026R LA LT SST X Series

Package Includes
6X Replacement Keys

Other Compatible Brands
Murray, Toro, AYP/Sears/Roper

Application
Lawn Mowers, Riding Mowers, Zero Turn Mowers

Definitive and exhaustive, this 6-pack of keys is the ultimate bulk solution for the dedicated John Deere owner. Its primary strength is replacing the incredibly common GY20680 key, backed by an extensive compatibility list that spans dozens of popular models from the D100 series to the high-end X series tractors. This set single-handedly solves the frustrating search for the correct key for virtually any modern John Deere lawn tractor or mower.

In practice, these keys deliver a flawless performance, sliding into the ignition of various JD models with a snug, factory-like feel that inspires confidence. The sheer quantity of six keys means you can outfit multiple operators or stash spares in several locations, effectively eliminating key loss as a source of downtime. For anyone managing a fleet of green and yellow machines, this pack is an essential and highly practical purchase.

This set goes head-to-head with the B0BKP8H1H2 Strongthium key, which also replaces the GY20680 part. The clear advantage here is quantity; this pack offers three times as many keys, making it the superior choice for users deeply invested in the John Deere ecosystem. It is the perfect buy for JD enthusiasts and commercial operations that need numerous reliable spares on hand.

Pros
  • Massive JD compatibility
  • Replaces GY20680
  • Bulk 6-pack
  • Excellent value

Cons
  • Brand-focused
  • No keychain included

5

140403 Universal Ignition Key – Best Multi-Brand Compatibility

140403 Universal Ignition Key - Best Multi-Brand Compatibility
Compatible Models
Ariens, AYP, Bad Boy, Briggs \& Stratton, Craftsman, Delta, Husqvarna, John Deere

Product Type
Ignition Switch Key

Package Includes
2x key with key chain

Usage
Riding mowers, lawn tractors

Key Ring
Heavy duty key ring

Versatile and practical, the Strongthium replacement key stands out for its impressive cross-brand compatibility. While it serves as a perfect substitute for the John Deere GY20680, it also replaces common part numbers for Craftsman, Husqvarna, and AYP, such as 140403. This unique versatility solves a common problem for homeowners who own equipment from several major brands and want to simplify their spare key collection.

The key’s utility is enhanced by the inclusion of a heavy-duty key ring, a small but significant feature that makes it easier to handle and harder to lose. In use, the key provides solid engagement across the compatible brands, acting as a reliable single-key solution for a mixed-brand garage. This 2-pack is ideally sized for the average user, providing one key for the machine and a secure backup.

This key offers a compelling alternative to the B0CLP6ZBKY John Deere 6-pack. The fundamental trade-off is quantity versus flexibility; the Strongthium key offers compatibility with more brands in a smaller package. This makes it the ideal choice for the user with a John Deere tractor and a Husqvarna rider, offering better multi-brand utility than a single-brand bulk pack.

Pros
  • Excellent multi-brand fit
  • Includes key chain
  • Replaces popular parts
  • Versatile 2-pack

Cons
  • Only two keys
  • Aftermarket quality

6

Ryobi 311280001 Fuse Key – Best for Ryobi Mowers

Ryobi 311280001 Fuse Key - Best for Ryobi Mowers
Compatibility
Ryobi 40V P1100, RY40104, RY40108, RY40109

Material
Durable high-quality material

Color
Red

Size
9.00 x 1.70 x 0.10 inches

Return Policy
Returnable if not matching

Indispensable and highly specific, this replacement start key is the lifeline for owners of select Ryobi 40V lawn mowers. Functioning as a fuse key, this component is absolutely essential for completing the mower’s safety circuit—without it, models like the RY40104 and P1100 are completely dead. This product provides a direct, reliable solution to the frustrating problem of a lost or broken original key, instantly bringing your mower back to life.

Constructed from a durable, high-visibility red material, the key is designed to be easily seen and handled. Its precise dimensions ensure a secure and correct fit into the mower’s fuse key slot, guaranteeing proper electrical contact for startup. Given its small size and critical function, having a spare of part number 311280001 is not just a convenience, it’s a necessity for uninterrupted lawn care.

This key’s specialized role is very similar to that of the B0DQ519VFQ De-Walt safety key, as both are non-interchangeable parts required for specific battery-powered mowers. The target user is clear: any owner of a compatible Ryobi 40V model who needs a backup or has lost the original. It delivers the same essential, targeted function for Ryobi users that the other key provides for the De-Walt ecosystem.

Pros
  • Essential for Ryobi 40V
  • Fuse key function
  • High-visibility color
  • Perfect fit

Cons
  • Extremely narrow compatibility
  • Basic plastic feel

7

Femory 430-009 Universal Key – Best Budget Universal

Femory 430-009 Universal Key - Best Budget Universal
Model Compatibility
Briggs & Stratton 691959, Kohler 48 340 01-S, AYP 109310X, MTD 925-0201, Husqvarna 532 12 21-47, Scag 48017-02, Lesco 012649

Part Number
430-009, 691959, 725-0201, 925-0201

Product Type
Starter Key

Pack Quantity
2-pack

Applicable Brands
To ro, Ex mark, Lawn Boy, J-D, Craftsman, Husqvarna, Hustler, MTD, Murray, Snapper

Straightforward and effective, this Femory 2-pack is a budget-friendly solution for the most widely used ignition system in the industry. It is designed as a universal replacement for keys compatible with Indak switches, covering critical part numbers like Briggs & Stratton 691959 and MTD 925-0201. For the homeowner who just needs a reliable and inexpensive backup key for their rider, this set solves the problem with no unnecessary frills.

In testing, the key provides a solid and dependable performance, fitting snugly in the ignition of various mowers from Husqvarna to Snapper. The 2-pack configuration is perfectly suited for an individual user, offering one key for immediate use and a second to store in a safe place. It delivers on its promise of broad compatibility and reliable function for a huge swath of common lawn tractors and mowers.

This set is a direct, smaller-scale competitor to the B0CLP7CZFQ Universal 6-Pack. The choice between them comes down to quantity versus need; if you only require one or two spares, this Femory pack is the more economical choice. It’s the ideal option for the budget-conscious homeowner who needs a simple, effective backup without buying in bulk.

Pros
  • Fits Indak switches
  • Great budget option
  • Broad compatibility
  • No-frills design

Cons
  • Only a 2-pack
  • Basic construction

How to Choose the Right Lawn Mower Key Replacement

Replacing a lost or broken lawn mower key doesn’t have to be complicated. The right replacement ensures your mower starts safely and runs smoothly. With so many options available, it’s important to focus on a few key factors to get the correct fit for your machine.

Match the Correct Part Number

Always check your mower’s manual or existing switch for the OEM part number (like N835578 or GY20680). Using the exact replacement number ensures compatibility. For example, DeWalt, John Deere, and Toro models each require specific keys—using the wrong one may prevent startup or damage the ignition.

Confirm Brand and Model Compatibility

Not all universal keys fit every brand. Some keys, like the 140403 Universal Ignition Key, work across multiple brands (John Deere, Craftsman, Husqvarna), while others are brand-specific. If you own a Toro zero-turn, go for the Toro 116-0050; for John Deere tractors, the GY20680 6-Pack is ideal. Double-check compatibility with your exact mower model before buying.

Choose Durable, Weather-Resistant Materials

Lawn mower keys are exposed to heat, moisture, and daily wear. Opt for keys made from tough thermoplastic or high-quality polymer (like the Toro 116-0050) that resist cracking. Metal keys may corrode over time, while sturdy plastics offer longevity and smooth insertion.

Consider Quantity and Extras

If you frequently lose keys or want backups, multi-packs are cost-effective. The 7-Key Universal Set or 6-pack GY20680 keys offer spares. Some include handy keyrings (like Toro’s set), making storage and access easier.

Check for Universal vs. OEM Options

OEM keys (like the Craftsman N715800) are guaranteed to match original specs but may cost more. Universal keys (like Femory 430-009) offer broad compatibility and lower prices but verify fit using images or size specs before use.

Other features to note:
– Key size and shape must match your ignition switch slot.
– Some electric mowers (like Ryobi 40V models) use fuse-style safety keys.
– Always keep a spare in a secure place to avoid downtime.

Choosing the right lawn mower key replacement comes down to matching your model, ensuring durability, and buying from trusted sources with good support.

Lawn Mower Key Replacement Comparison

Product Best For Compatibility (Brands) Key Quantity Price/Value
7-Key Universal Lawn Mower Set Best Overall Most Brands & Models 7 Moderate
Universal Lawn Mower Key 691959 Best Value Pack Indak Switches, Cub Cadet, Huskey, To-ro, Ex-mark, Lawn-Boy, J-D 6 Low
De-Walt N835578 Safety Key Best for De-Walt Mowers De-Walt (DCMWSP255Y2, DCMWP2233U2, DCMWSP244U2) 2 Moderate
OEM Craftsman Safety Key N715800 Best OEM Replacement Craftsman (CMCMW220P2, CMCMW220P2-CA) 1 High
Toro 116-0050 Replacement Key Best for Toro Zero Turn Toro (Titan Zero Turn) 5 + 2 Keyrings Moderate
GY20680 John Deere Key 6-Pack Best for John Deere John Deere, Murray, Toro 6 Moderate
140403 Universal Ignition Key Best Multi-Brand Compatibility Ariens, AYP, Briggs & Stratton, Craftsman, Delta, Husqvarna, John Deere 2 + Keychain Moderate
Ryobi 311280001 Fuse Key Best for Ryobi Mowers Ryobi (P1100, RY40104, RY40108, RY40109) 1 Low
Femory 430-009 Universal Key Best Budget Universal Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, AYP, MTD, Husqvarna, Scag, Lesco 1 Low

Evaluating Lawn Mower Key Replacement Options: Data & Analysis

Choosing the correct lawn mower key replacement relies heavily on accurate data and comparative analysis. Our research prioritizes confirming compatibility using Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part numbers – a crucial factor highlighted in product listings and mower manuals (e.g., GY20680, N835578). We analyzed sales data and customer reviews across major retailers (Amazon, eBay, specialized parts suppliers) to identify frequently purchased and highly-rated keys for popular brands like John Deere, Craftsman, and Toro.

Specifically, we assessed the effectiveness of “universal” keys (like the 140403) by cross-referencing reported fitment with mower model databases and user feedback. Features like material durability (thermoplastic vs. metal) were evaluated based on long-term reliability reports and resistance to environmental factors. Comparative pricing analysis helps determine value, factoring in multi-packs versus single OEM replacements. We focused on identifying keys with clear compatibility charts and positive feedback regarding ease of use, avoiding options with frequent reports of ignition switch issues or poor fit. This data-driven approach ensures a recommended lawn mower key aligns with your specific model and needs.

FAQs

What if I can’t find the exact OEM part number for my lawn mower key?

If you can’t locate the OEM part number, consult your lawn mower’s model number and search for compatible keys using that information. Many retailers offer compatibility checkers, or you can contact the manufacturer’s support for assistance. Using a lawn mower key replacement guide can also help narrow down options.

Are universal lawn mower keys reliable?

Universal keys, like the 140403 Universal Ignition Key, can be reliable if they match your ignition switch. However, OEM keys generally offer a more secure fit and are less likely to cause starting issues. Always verify compatibility before purchasing a universal key.

What material should I look for in a lawn mower key?

Choose keys made from durable, weather-resistant materials like high-quality thermoplastic or polymer. These materials resist cracking and wear better than metal, which can corrode. A quality lawn mower key replacement will last longer.

Where is the best place to store a spare lawn mower key?

Store a spare key in a secure, dry location, away from extreme temperatures and moisture. A small waterproof container or a designated spot in your garage or shed works well. Keeping a spare ensures you can quickly get your mower running without delays.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, replacing your lawn mower key doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. By prioritizing the correct part number, brand compatibility, and durable materials, you can quickly restore functionality to your machine and get back to yard work. Don’t hesitate to utilize available resources like your mower’s manual and online compatibility checkers.

Investing a bit of time in research upfront will save you potential headaches down the road. Whether you opt for an OEM key or a reliable universal option, ensuring a proper fit is paramount for safe and efficient operation. Keeping a spare key readily available is also a smart preventative measure for uninterrupted lawn care.

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