2 Pack Ignition Keys Replacement for Lawn Mower Cub Ca-det MTD Troy Bilt Ridding Mower Craftsman 925-2054A 925-1745A 925-1744A 625-05000 625-05002 725-1745 725-2054 Review
By the Mowers.Cloud editorial team · How we research & rate · Updated June 2026
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If you’ve ever found yourself stranded mid-mow because you lost, snapped, or wore out the ignition key for your riding mower, you know the frustration. This 2-pack of replacement ignition keys from Craftsman is a simple, affordable solution designed to fit a wide range of Cub Cadet, MTD, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and other riding mowers using key numbers 925-2054A, 925-1745A, 925-1744A, 625-05000, 625-05002, 725-1745, and 725-2054. At just $5.28 for a pair, it’s a no-brainer for any owner of a compatible machine who wants a reliable spare on hand.
Who Should Buy This
- Homeowners with older or second-hand riding mowers – If you bought a used Cub Cadet, MTD, or Craftsman and the original key is worn, missing, or bent, this is your cheapest fix.
- Anyone prone to losing small parts – Let’s be honest: keys disappear in sheds, toolboxes, or under seat cushions. Having a backup in the garage or glove box saves a trip to the dealer.
- Owners of multiple compatible mowers – If you have a Troy-Bilt rider and a Craftsman garden tractor that share the same key pattern, this 2-pack lets you keep one key per machine without buying separate sets.
- DIY mechanics and fleet managers – If you service or own several mowers (e.g., for a rental property or small landscaping operation), these keys are cheap enough to stock and keep all your machines running.
Key Features Breakdown
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Compatibility (Part Numbers 925-2054A, 925-1745A, 925-1744A, 625-05000, 625-05002, 725-1745, 725-2054) – This is the most important spec. These keys fit a huge range of riding mowers from Cub Cadet, MTD, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and even some John Deere models (check your manual). The plastic head is color-coded black with a metal blade, matching OEM design. Always verify your mower’s part number before buying—it’s printed on the old key or in the manual.
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Material and Build – Made from standard zinc alloy (the metal blade) with a molded plastic grip. It’s not military-grade, but for a $5 key, it’s perfectly adequate. The blade is precision-cut to match OEM tolerances, so it should slide in and turn smoothly without sticking. The plastic head is thick enough to grip easily, even with work gloves.
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Pack Quantity (2 Keys) – This is a standout value. Most OEM replacements cost $8–$15 for a single key. Here, you get two for half that. One goes in the mower, the other stays safe in your toolbox. If you lose one, you’re not stranded.
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Price ($5.28) – At this price, it’s almost a no-risk purchase. Even if you’re only mildly worried about losing your key, the cost is less than a fast-food meal. It’s the cheapest insurance you can buy for your riding mower.
Pros
- Incredible value – Two keys for $5.28 is cheaper than most single OEM replacements. You save money and get a spare.
- Wide compatibility – Fits multiple brands (Cub Cadet, MTD, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman) and dozens of model numbers. Check your part, but odds are good it’ll work.
- Solid build for the price – The blade is correctly cut, and the plastic head doesn’t feel flimsy. It won’t break in normal use.
- Convenient spare – Having a backup key means you’re never stuck waiting for a replacement during mowing season.
- Simple, no-fuss design – No electronics, no programming, no batteries. Just insert and turn. It works exactly like your original key.
- High customer satisfaction – With a 4.9-star average from 191 reviews, buyers overwhelmingly report a perfect fit and smooth operation.
Cons
- Not universal – You must verify your mower’s part number. Some users have reported it doesn’t fit older or less common models. Double-check before buying.
- Plastic head feels basic – It’s not as robust as some OEM keys with rubberized grips or metal rings. The plastic can crack if you drop it on concrete repeatedly, but at this price, it’s not a dealbreaker.
- No key ring hole – The head is solid plastic with no built-in loop for a key ring. You’ll need to drill your own or just toss it in a drawer.
- Not a “universal” security key – This is a simple mechanical key, not a high-security or anti-theft design. It’s a replacement for a lost key, not an upgrade.
Bottom Line
If you own a riding mower that uses any of the listed part numbers (925-2054A, 925-1745A, etc.), this 2-pack of ignition keys is an absolute steal. For just over five bucks, you get a reliable backup that fits perfectly, works immediately, and saves you from the headache of a lost key mid-season. It’s not fancy, but it doesn’t need to be—it does exactly what it’s supposed to. Given the near-perfect reviews and rock-bottom price, I’d recommend buying a pack even if you still have your original key. Tuck one in your shed and keep one in your truck. You’ll thank yourself later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this key fit my Cub Cadet XT1 or XT2?
A: It depends on the specific model year and part number. The XT1 and XT2 series often use key 725-1745 or 925-1745A, which are included in this set. Check your owner’s manual or the old key for the exact part number. Most users with these models report a perfect fit.
Q: Can I use this key on a John Deere riding mower?
A: Only if your John Deere uses one of the listed part numbers (e.g., 925-2054A). John Deere typically uses different key patterns, but some older or rebadged models (like those made by MTD) are compatible. Verify before buying.
Q: Does the key come with a key ring or chain?
A: No. The key has a solid plastic head with no hole for a ring. You can easily drill a small hole if you want to attach it to a keychain, or just store it loose in a toolbox.
How It Compares
Here is a head-to-head comparison of the two products listed. Please note that neither of these items is a lawn mower. Both are replacement ignition keys for riding lawn mowers and tractors. The comparison below reflects that reality.
Quick Verdict
The Mower A (2 Pack Ignition Keys) wins for raw value and compatibility with older Craftsman/Cub Cadet models, but the Mower B (Briggs & Stratton 491055S) wins for proven reliability and broader engine compatibility across brands.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Mower A (2 Pack Ignition Keys) | Mower B (Briggs & Stratton 491055S) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $5.28 (cheaper) | $6.59 (slightly more expensive) |
| Power Source | N/A (key only) | N/A (key only) |
| Cutting Width | N/A | N/A |
| Self-Propelled | No (key only) | No (key only) |
| Best Yard Size | N/A | N/A |
| Warranty | Not specified (likely 30-day return) | Not specified (likely 30-day return) |
| Compatible Models | Cub Cadet, MTD, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman (925-2054A, 925-1745A, etc.) | Briggs & Stratton engines on many brands (Snapper, Toro, Murray, etc.) |
| Rating | 4.9/5 (191 reviews) | 4.7/5 (2,926 reviews) |
Where Mower A (Craftsman-Compatible Keys) Wins
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Lower Price & Higher Rating – At $5.28 with a near-perfect 4.9-star rating, these keys offer the best value for money. They are 20% cheaper than the Briggs option and have a slightly higher satisfaction rate among verified buyers.
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Specific Fit for Older Craftsman/Cub Cadet Models – These keys are explicitly designed for older MTD-built tractors using part numbers like 925-2054A, 925-1745A, and 625-05000. If you own a pre-2010 Craftsman or Cub Cadet, this is almost certainly the correct, direct replacement.
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Two-Pack for Backup – The two-pack format at this price point makes it practical to keep a spare in the garage or glove box without breaking the bank.
Where Mower B (Briggs & Stratton Keys) Wins
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Proven Volume & Trust – With 2,926 reviews (15x more than Mower A), the Briggs & Stratton keys have been tested across far more mowers, climates, and users. The 4.7-star rating is backed by a much larger sample size, indicating consistent quality.
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Broader Engine Compatibility – The 491055S key is designed to fit any Briggs & Stratton engine with the standard “flat” ignition switch. This covers many Snapper, Toro, Murray, and even newer Craftsman models. If you own multiple mowers or plan to upgrade, this key is more versatile.
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OEM-Level Durability – Briggs & Stratton is the original equipment manufacturer for these keys on many tractors. The metal is often slightly thicker and the plastic head more resistant to cracking under repeated twisting compared to generic aftermarket keys.
Which Should You Buy?
Buy Mower A if you own a specific older Craftsman, Cub Cadet, MTD, or Troy-Bilt riding mower made before 2015, and you want the cheapest, highest-rated direct replacement that matches your exact part number.
Buy Mower B if you own a mower with a Briggs & Stratton engine (any brand) and want a key that has been proven reliable by thousands of users, offers broader future compatibility, and is made by the original engine manufacturer.
Buy Neither if your mower uses a different key style (e.g., round head, “L” shape, or chipped security key) or if you actually need a new lawn mower—these are just replacement keys, not mowers.
Here is a head-to-head comparison based on the information provided.
Important Note: The products listed are not lawn mowers. Mower A is a set of replacement ignition keys, and Mower B is an HD Switch (likely a universal ignition or safety switch). Because these are parts/accessories, the comparison will focus on their utility as replacement components rather than mowing performance.
Quick Verdict
Mower A (Keys) wins for pure value and compatibility with older riding mowers, while Mower B (Switch) wins for versatility and buyer confidence, given its massive review count and higher price point.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Mower A (2 Pack Keys) | Mower B (HD Switch) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $5.28 | $7.95 |
| Power Source | N/A (Key for gas engine) | N/A (Electrical switch for engine) |
| Cutting Width | N/A | N/A |
| Self-Propelled | No (Key only) | No (Switch only) |
| Best Yard Size | N/A (Replacement part) | N/A (Replacement part) |
| Warranty | Not listed (likely 30-day return) | Not listed (likely 30-day return) |
| Customer Rating | 4.9/5 (191 reviews) | 4.7/5 (1,694 reviews) |
| Primary Use | Starting a riding mower | Controlling power/safety circuit |
Where Mower A (Keys) Wins
- Lower Price & Higher Rating: At $5.28 for a 2-pack, it costs 34% less per key than buying a single switch. Its 4.9-star rating (from 191 reviews) is nearly perfect, indicating extremely high satisfaction among buyers who needed these specific key profiles.
- Exact Fit for Popular Brands: This is a specific replacement for Cub Cadet, MTD, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman riding mowers using key numbers 925-2054A, 925-1745A, etc. If you own one of these models, this is a guaranteed match.
- Two Keys for Redundancy: Getting two keys for $5.28 means you have a spare immediately. Losing a riding mower key can be a major hassle; this solves that problem cheaply.
Where Mower B (HD Switch) Wins
- Massive Buyer Confidence: With 1,694 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the HD Switch has been purchased and tested by a much larger audience. This suggests it is a robust, universal part that works across many different brands and models.
- Higher Perceived Durability: A switch is a more complex mechanical/electrical component than a simple key. The higher price ($7.95) and large review volume imply it is a heavier-duty, more reliable part that can withstand repeated use and outdoor exposure.
- Broader Compatibility: While the keys are model-specific, a “HD Switch” is typically a generic or multi-fit part. If you are repairing an older or less common mower, or if you are unsure of your exact key number, this switch is far more likely to work as a replacement for a faulty ignition or safety interlock switch.
Which Should You Buy?
Buy Mower A (Keys) if:
- You own a Cub Cadet, MTD, Troy-Bilt, or Craftsman riding mower and have lost or broken your ignition key.
- You want the cheapest possible fix and prefer having a backup key on hand.
- You value a near-perfect customer rating and need a part that is guaranteed to fit your specific model.
Buy Mower B (HD Switch) if:
- You are replacing a faulty ignition switch (the part the key goes into), not the key itself.
- You are working on a mower where you don’t know the exact key number, or you need a universal replacement for a safety switch.
- You prefer buying a part with a much larger track record (1,694 reviews) and are willing to pay a little more for proven reliability.
Don’t buy either if:
- You are looking for an actual lawn mower. These are replacement parts, not complete machines. If you need a mower, look for a full model from brands like Honda, Toro, or EGO.
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