Recall #16-050 · Published December 1, 2015

Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drills

Harbor Freight Tools Recalls Cordless Drills Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

CPSC published a recall notice for Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drills from Harbor Freight Tools on December 1, 2015. CPSC identifies this hazard: An internal switching mechanism can become stuck in the "on" position and overheat, posing fire and burn hazards. The official remedy states: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled drills and return the unit to the nearest Harbor Freight Tools store to receive a replacement drill.

Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68239
Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68239
Image: CPSC recall notice

What to check on the product label

Compare every letter, number, space, and suffix. A similar-looking product may not be included in this recall.

The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.

Additional identifying details

The item number is located on a black label on the right side of the drill, just beneath the serial number.

Why it was recalled

An internal switching mechanism can become stuck in the "on" position and overheat, posing fire and burn hazards.

Incidents and injuries

Harbor Freight Tools has received 25 reports of the drill switch overheating, including six reports of burns to the hands and fingers, and five reports of minor property damage.

Official remedy

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled drills and return the unit to the nearest Harbor Freight Tools store to receive a replacement drill.

Remedy type: Replace

Product and sales details

Recall number
16-050
Units
About 1.7 million units
Manufactured in
China
Sold at / sales period
Harbor Freight Tools stores nationwide, Harbor Freight Tools catalog, and online at www.harborfreight.com between May 2011 and September 2015 for about $35 for item number 68239 and $46 for item number 68287.
Importer
Harbor Freight Tools, of Camarillo, Calif.

Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drills

CPSC product type: Portable Power Drills And Accessories

Recall contact information

Harbor Freight Tools at 800-444-3353 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or online at www.harborfreight.com and click on Recall Safety Information under Customer Service for more information. Consumers can also email Harbor Freight Tools at recalls@harborfreight.com.

Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.

Publication and verification

  1. Recall published

  2. CPSC record last published

  3. Home Recall Watch last verified

    From the verified CPSC data snapshot this site is built from.

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