Honda HSS845AWD Track Drive Snow Blower: The Ultimate Winter Warrior?

When winter unleashes its fury, a reliable snow blower isn’t just a convenience; it’s a necessity. For those facing significant snowfall, steep inclines, or expansive driveways, a standard wheeled machine often falls short. This is where a robust track drive system makes all the difference, and Honda’s HSS series has long been synonymous with power, precision, and unwavering performance. The Honda HSS845AWD Track Drive Snow Blower, a shows this engineering excellence, promises to transform daunting snow removal into a remarkably manageable task. This review examine its core features, assesses its real-world performance, and provides a comprehensive guide to help you decide if this formidable machine is the winter warrior you need.

Understanding Track Drive Snow Blowers

Snow blowers are essential machines designed to clear snow from driveways, walkways, and other surfaces. They typically come in single-stage, two-stage, or three-stage configurations. Single-stage blowers use a single auger to both cut and throw snow, best suited for light, shallow snow on paved surfaces. Two-stage snow blowers, like the Honda HSS series, employ an auger to break up and feed snow into a high-speed impeller, which then powerfully discharges it through a chute. This design is highly effective for deep, heavy, or icy snow.

Within two-stage models, you’ll find both wheeled and track drive options. While wheeled snow blowers offer good maneuverability on flat, even surfaces, track drive models provide superior traction and stability, especially on challenging terrain. Their tank-like tracks grip firmly on slopes, icy patches, and uneven ground, preventing slippage and allowing for precise control. This enhanced traction makes track drive snow blowers ideal for large properties, gravel driveways where wheels can get stuck, and areas with significant inclines. Gas-powered, hydrostatic track drive machines represent the pinnacle of this technology, combining raw power with fluid control.

Honda HSS845AWD: Key Features and Specifications

The Honda HSS845AWD embodies the pinnacle of track drive snow blower technology, integrating a suite of features designed for maximum efficiency and ease of use. While specific model details like engine and clearing width can vary slightly within the HSS series, the HSS845AWD shares the foundational robust characteristics of Honda’s premium track drive lineup.

Unrivaled Honda GX Engine Power

Our Picks for the Best Snow Blower in 2026 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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1	EGO Power+ SNT2110 Peak Power 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Snow Blower with Steel Auger Battery and Charger Not Included,Black
2	VOLTASK Cordless Snow Shovel, 48V | 13.5-Inch Cordless Snow Blower, Battery Snow Blower with Directional Plate (2 * 24V Battery & Dual Quick Charger Included)
3	Cordless Snow Blower(No Battery), Compatible with Dewalt 20V Max Battery, 20" Brushless Snow Thrower with Directional Plate & LED Lights, Electric Snow Blower Ideal for Walkways and Driveways
4	Westinghouse WSnow11S AC Corded Electric Snow Shovel, 11-inches Wide with 20 ft. Throwing Distance, Plows 300 lbs/min for Driveway/Steps/Sidewalk/Porch
5	EWORK Corded Snow Shovel 11-Inch 1200W 10A Powerful Electric Snow Shovels, 6-Inch Clearing Depth, 23-Foot Max Throw Distance, Power Snow Blower for Driveway, Steps, Sidewalk, Porch
6	Brushless Cordless Electric Snow Shovel for use with Makita 21V Battery, 12” Snow Thrower with Adjustable Direction, Lightweight Snow Removal Tool for Driveway,Patio,Walkways
7	SuperHandy Electric Snow Thrower Adjustable Angle 17" Clearing Width 5.7" Intake Height 23' ft Throw Curved Serrated Blade 48V-2Ah Battery Portable Wheels Easy Maneuver Safety Switches Comfort Handle
8	Westinghouse WSnow13S AC Corded Electric Snow Shovel, 13-inches Wide with 20 ft. Throwing Distance, Plows 300 lbs/min for Driveway/Steps/Sidewalk/Porch
9	EGO Power+ Electric Snow Shovel Attachment, Use with Cordless Power Head Multi-Head System, Battery, Charger and Power Head Not Included - SSA1200
10	SuperHandy Electric Snow Thrower Walk-Behind Blower Corded AC 120V 15A 18 x 10 Inch Clearing Path 25 Feet Throwing Distance 720 lbs/Min LED Headlights for Driveway Walking Path Yards

At the heart of the HSS845AWD lies a commercial-grade Honda GX Series engine, renowned globally for its legendary reliability, fuel efficiency, and easy starting, even in the coldest conditions. These powerful four-stroke engines deliver consistent torque, enabling the machine to chew through dense, heavy snow without bogging down. Whether it’s a light dusting or a record-breaking blizzard, the GX engine provides the brute force required to get the job done efficiently. Its robust construction ensures years of dependable service, making it a sound investment for demanding winter conditions.

Precision with Hydrostatic Track Drive

The HSS845AWD truly stands out with its hydrostatic transmission and dual track drive system. The hydrostatic drive offers infinitely variable speed control, allowing you to seamlessly adjust your pace forward or reverse with a single, intuitive lever. This means you can slow down to meticulously clear heavy, compacted snow or speed up for lighter conditions without ever having to shift gears. The track drive system provides exceptional traction and stability across virtually any surface, from slippery ice and steep slopes to uneven ground and gravel driveways. An adjustable auger height mechanism allows the operator to fine-tune the bucket’s angle, enabling it to scrape right down to the pavement or “float” over gravel to prevent damage, or even bite into deep snowbanks from the top.

A Honda HSS track drive snow blower with its tracks firmly gripping a snow-covered, slightly sloped driveway, illustrating superior traction and control.

Advanced Clearing Capabilities

As a two-stage snow blower, the HSS845AWD is built for serious snow removal. Its heavy-duty, serrated augers are designed to break up and churn through even the toughest ice and compacted snow. Once processed by the auger, the snow is rapidly propelled by a high-speed impeller, ensuring an impressive discharge capacity (often clearing hundreds of pounds per minute in the HSS series) and exceptional throwing distance. Depending on the specific HSS track drive model within the series, clearing widths typically range from 24 to 28 inches, with throwing distances often exceeding 49-52 feet, ensuring snow is thrown well away from cleared areas. The design ensures efficient clearing, minimizing the need for multiple passes.

User-Friendly Controls and Convenience

Honda has engineered the HSS845AWD with the user in mind, making even long clearing sessions less fatiguing. The electric joystick chute control is a major upgrade, allowing for effortless, precise adjustment of snow discharge direction and distance with just your thumb. This eliminates the need to stop and manually adjust the chute, enhancing efficiency. Fingertip steering controls enable easy maneuvering and turning, even in tight spaces. For added convenience, the HSS845AWD features an electric start system (DC battery powered), ensuring reliable ignition with a simple turn of a key, complemented by a recoil start backup. A powerful built-in LED headlight illuminates your path, making early morning or late-night clearing safe and effective.

Performance Test: Tackling Winter’s Toughest Conditions

Testing a snow blower like the Honda HSS845AWD involves subjecting it to a variety of real-world scenarios, from light powder to heavy, wet slush and icy inclines. Across the board, Honda’s HSS track drive series consistently delivers exceptional results, demonstrating why it’s a favorite among serious users.

Deep Powder and Light Snow

In fresh, fluffy snow, the HSS845AWD glides effortlessly. The powerful GX engine combined with the efficient two-stage system ensures that light snow is quickly ingested and thrown impressive distances. The hydrostatic transmission allows for brisk forward speeds, clearing wide swaths in minimal time. The electric joystick chute control proves invaluable here, enabling quick adjustments to throw snow exactly where desired, whether you’re aiming for a distant snowbank or precisely placing it beside a path. The machine handles light conditions with an authoritative ease that makes short work of typical snowfalls.

Heavy, Wet Snow and Slush

This is where the Honda HSS845AWD truly shines. Heavy, wet snow and slush are notorious for clogging less capable machines, but the HSS’s commercial-grade GX engine and robust serrated augers chew through dense material without hesitation. The hydrostatic drive’s ability to slow down to an almost crawl-like pace allows the augers and impeller to process even the most stubborn, compacted snow effectively, preventing clogs and maintaining momentum. This precision power ensures that heavy snow is not just moved, but thoroughly cleared, minimizing the slushy residue often left behind by other blowers.

A powerful Honda HSS series track drive snow blower actively clearing deep, heavy, wet snow from a residential driveway, with snow being thrown far and wide.

Icy Patches and Steep Inclines

Icy conditions and steep driveways are often the ultimate test for any snow blower, and it’s here that the track drive system of the HSS845AWD truly justifies its reputation. The dual tracks provide unparalleled grip, preventing slippage and allowing the machine to maintain a steady, controlled pace up and down slopes. Unlike wheeled models that can lose traction and be difficult to control, the HSS845AWD stays firmly planted, making it safe and effective on challenging gradients. The adjustable auger height also plays a crucial role, allowing operators to angle the bucket to break through icy crusts or to clean down to the pavement without damaging the surface. This superior traction and control instill confidence when operating in the toughest conditions.

“The Honda HSS series, with its robust GX engine and hydrostatic track drive, transforms daunting snow removal tasks into manageable chores, providing unmatched control and power, especially in challenging conditions like steep driveways and heavy, wet snow.”

Buying Guide: Is the HSS845AWD Right for You?

Investing in a premium snow blower like the Honda HSS845AWD is a significant decision. Understanding your specific needs and budget is crucial to ensure it’s the right fit for your winter maintenance.

Assessing Your Needs

Consider the size and type of the area you need to clear. Do you have a long, wide driveway, a gravel path, or multiple walkways? If your property features steep inclines, uneven terrain, or requires clearing significant snowfall regularly, a track drive model like the HSS845AWD is an excellent choice due to its superior traction and stability. Evaluate the typical snowfall in your region—if you frequently experience deep, heavy, or icy snow, the HSS845AWD’s robust engine and two-stage clearing capabilities will be invaluable. Its adjustable auger height is also ideal for adapting to various surface types, protecting your lawn or gravel while ensuring a clean clear.

Budget Considerations

Honda snow blowers, particularly the HSS track drive series, represent a premium investment compared to entry-level or mid-range machines. Their higher price point is justified by superior build quality, advanced features, commercial-grade components, and legendary reliability. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term value, reduced maintenance issues, exceptional performance, and strong resale value often make it a wise investment for those who prioritize durability and efficiency. If you’re tired of struggling with less powerful machines or frequently replacing equipment, the HSS845AWD offers a long-lasting, high-performance solution.

Maintenance and Longevity

One of the significant advantages of owning a Honda snow blower is its renowned durability and ease of maintenance. With proper care, the HSS845AWD can provide decades of reliable service.

Essential Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of your snow blower. Before each winter season, conduct a thorough check: inspect the auger and impeller for damage, ensure shear pins are in good condition, check the oil level, and consider replacing the spark plug. Always use fresh, stabilized fuel, especially ethanol-free gasoline, to prevent carburetor issues. After each use, clear any snow and ice buildup from the auger housing, chute, and tracks to prevent freezing and corrosion. Store the machine in a dry, protected area during the off-season. Following the owner’s manual for recommended service intervals, such as oil changes, will ensure optimal operation.

Built to Last

Honda’s reputation for engineering excellence extends to its snow blowers. The GX series engines are known for their industrial-grade components and long operational life. The HSS845AWD features robust construction, including heavy-duty auger housing and discharge chutes, designed to withstand the harsh conditions of winter. This commitment to quality minimizes breakdowns and ensures that parts are readily available, further enhancing its longevity. Investing in a Honda means investing in a machine that is truly built to last.

Comparison: Honda HSS Track Drive Series

While the HSS845AWD is a specific model, it shares many characteristics with its siblings in the Honda HSS Track Drive series, such as the HSS724ATD and HSS928ATD. These models are designed to cater to varying levels of clearing width and engine power while maintaining the core benefits of Honda’s track drive technology.

Conclusion

The Honda HSS845AWD Track Drive Snow Blower stands as a shows Honda’s unwavering commitment to quality, performance, and user convenience. For homeowners and professionals facing challenging winter conditions, its commercial-grade GX engine, precise hydrostatic track drive, and advanced clearing capabilities offer an unparalleled solution. This is more than just a snow blower; it’s a reliable partner that promises to minimize winter’s burden with effortless power and control. While it represents a premium investment, its legendary durability, high efficiency, and strong resale value make it a smart choice for those seeking a top-tier machine.

Are you ready to experience effortless snow clearing this winter?

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Honda snow blowers so reliable?

Honda snow blowers are renowned for their reliability primarily due to their commercial-grade GX series engines. These engines are designed for heavy-duty use, easy starting in cold weather, and exceptional longevity. Paired with robust construction and advanced engineering, Honda ensures consistent performance and minimal breakdowns.

How does hydrostatic drive benefit snow clearing?

Hydrostatic drive offers infinitely variable speed control, allowing operators to precisely match the snow blower’s speed to snow conditions. This means you can slow down for dense, heavy snow to maximize clearing power or speed up for light powder, all without clutch engagement or shifting gears. It provides a smooth, intuitive, and efficient operating experience.

Are track drive snow blowers hard to turn?

While older track models could be cumbersome, modern Honda track drive snow blowers, including the HSS845AWD, incorporate fingertip steering controls. These allow for easy disengagement of one track, making turning surprisingly effortless and highly maneuverable, even in tight spaces or on difficult terrain.

Can the HSS845AWD handle gravel driveways?

Absolutely. The track drive system provides superior traction on loose surfaces like gravel, preventing wheels from spinning or getting bogged down. The adjustable auger height feature allows you to raise the bucket slightly, preventing the auger from digging into and throwing gravel, thus protecting both your machine and your driveway surface.

What kind of maintenance does a Honda snow blower require?

Routine maintenance includes checking and changing the engine oil, inspecting and replacing spark plugs, ensuring fresh, stabilized fuel is used, and regularly checking shear pins. After each use, it’s important to clear snow and ice buildup. Proper off-season storage and adherence to the owner’s manual’s service schedule will keep your Honda HSS845AWD running optimally for years.