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Recall data is sourced from official U.S. government agencies (CPSC, FDA, NHTSA, USDA) and processed using AI to improve readability. This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. Always refer to the original agency notice for authoritative information.

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Medium RiskCPSC
Tools & Hardware/Power Tools

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

Agency Publication Date: December 1, 2015
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Summary

Approximately 1.7 million Drill Master 18-volt cordless drills are being recalled because an internal switch can get stuck in the "on" position and overheat. This defect has led to 25 reports of the switch overheating, resulting in six burn injuries and five instances of property damage. These black and red drills were sold individually and as part of kits at Harbor Freight Tools stores and online between May 2011 and September 2015. Consumers should immediately stop using these drills and return them to a Harbor Freight Tools store for a free replacement.

Risk

The drill's internal switching mechanism can malfunction and remain stuck in the active position, causing the device to overheat. This creates a significant risk of fire and can cause thermal burns to the user's hands and fingers during operation.

What You Should Do

  1. Immediately stop using the Drill Master 18-volt cordless drill and remove the battery pack.
  2. Identify your drill by checking the black label on the right side of the device, just below the serial number, for item number 68239 or 68287.
  3. Verify that your drill is black with a red switch; note that drills with item numbers 69651 or 69652 are not included in this recall.
  4. Return the recalled drill to the nearest Harbor Freight Tools store to receive a free replacement drill.
  5. If you have questions, contact Harbor Freight Tools at 800-444-3353 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or email recalls@harborfreight.com.
  6. You may also visit www.harborfreight.com and click on 'Recall Safety Information' under Customer Service for additional details.
  7. Call the CPSC Hotline at 800-638-2772 if you have further safety concerns.

Your Remedy Options

๐Ÿ“‹Replace

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

Contact: 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.

Affected Products

Product: Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drill (Individual)
Model:
68239
Date Ranges: May 2011 - September 2015
Product: Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drill (Kit with Flashlight)
Model:
68287
Date Ranges: May 2011 - September 2015

Product Images

Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68239

Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68239

Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68287

Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68287

Harbor Freight Drill - Location of Item Numbers

Harbor Freight Drill - Location of Item Numbers

Additional Information

Agency: Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
Recall ID: 16050
Status: Active
Sold By: 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.
Manufactured In: China
Units Affected: About 1.7 million units
Distributed To: Nationwide
Importer: Harbor Freight Tools, of Camarillo, Calif.
Contact: 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.
Agency Last Updated: December 2, 2015

Were You Affected by This Recall?

If you or a family member were harmed by this recalled product, you may have legal rights. Consider consulting a consumer protection attorney to understand your options for compensation.

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This is general information, not legal advice. Go Backs is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.

AI-Enhanced Content: The summary, action steps, and risk assessment on this page were generated by AI from official government recall data to improve readability. This is not legal or medical advice. Always refer to the official agency sources below for authoritative information.

Sources: CPSC Notice ยท Raw API Response