As you are probably already aware of, Stanley Black & Decker now owns the Craftsman tool brand, and are selling them through Lowes. However, Sears is also still selling new and existing Craftsman products, under license.
Let’s say you have a Craftsman hand tool that you’re either not satisfied with, or has a manufacturing defect. In the past, a trip to Sears would have resulted in a replacement or even a refund. For a replacement, you didn’t even need to bring your receipt, they replaced it on the spot with an identical or equivalent tool.
Advertisement
Here’s what the Craftsman Hand Tool Warranty looks like today.
Craftsman (Stanley Black & Decker)
Hand Tools continue to have a full lifetime warranty. Some hand tools are considered consumables, or might be categorized differently, but the new Craftsman website breaks it down in an easy-to-understand manner.
All of these tools are covered by the full lifetime warranty:
- Hammers & Demolition Tools
- Finishing Tools
- Hex Key
- Knives & Multi-tools
- Nut Drivers
- Pliers
- Rachets & Sockets
- Screwdrivers
- Wrenches & Wrench Sets
- Mechanics Tool Sets
- Individual Open Stock Tools
- Non-Electric Automotive Tools
Other hand tools are covered by a one year limited warranty:
- Torpedo Digital Levels
- Standard Digital Levels
- Staplers
- Miter Boxes
Electronic measuring tools, such as lasers, stud finders, and laser distance measuring tools, as well as new tape measures with model numbers starting with “CMHT,” are covered by a limited lifetime warranty.
Electric torque wrenches are covered by a 90 day limited warranty. DigiClick torque wrenches and legacy tape measures (model number starting with “9”) are covered by a one year limited warranty.
So back to the full lifetime warranty on hand tools, here’s what it says:
If the product fails to perform for any reason, we will replace it. Return damaged product to a stocking Retail Partner or call 1-888-331-4569 for details. No proof of purchase required.
Note: Same Warranty for all New Craftsman Models (Model # starting with “CMHT”) and older models (Model # starting with “9”)
Certain Exclusions: Warranty does not cover expendable parts which can wear from normal use (i.e. blade in a knife)
Here are the notable takeaways: No proof of purchase required, same warranty for new and older models. Meaning, as indicated by Craftsman at least year’s launch media event, you can replace existing Craftsman tools if you’re not happy with them.
Proof of purchase is required for certain tools covered under limited warranties, such as tape measures, electronic measuring devices, DigiClick torque wrenches, metal tool storage, power tools, air tools, and outdoor power tools. More details are found on Craftsman’s warranty information pages.
How well does Lowes handle Craftsman hand tool warranty claims? That’s something we hope learn more about. But, speaking about the policy itself, I think Craftsman is doing right.
They also emphasize:
CRAFTSMAN warranties are important to our customers. We will, of course, honor existing warranties and provide similar warranty protection for all new CRAFTSMAN products.
*Thumbs up*
More Info(via Craftsman)
PDF via Craftsman
Sears Craftsman Warranty
Sears came out with new Craftsman hand tools and “Ultimate Collection” mechanics tool sets, and I’ve been debating about whether or not to post about them. Then, I wondered if their Craftsman hand tool warranty has changed.
Yes, Craftsman and Craftsman Industrial hand tools are still covered by a Hand Tool Full Warranty, at leaast those that are labeled as such in their warranty heading.
Full hand tool warranty categories: Automotive Specialty Tools (simple design), Beam Torque Wrenches, C-Clamps, Chisels, Punches, Pry Bars, Hammers, Hex Keys, Files, Levels (other than Torpedo, Digital or Electronic), Metal Squares and Combination Squares, Planers, Pliers, Ratchets, Sockets, Extension Bars, Saws, Screwdrivers, Nut & Bit Drivers, Scrapers, Putty Knives, Snips, Bolt & Wire Cutters, Tubing Cutters, Utility Knives, Wrenches (other than Torque).
To obtain the warranty coverage stated below, return the product to the Sears Brands Management Corporation authorized retailer from which it was purchased. Coverage will be fulfilled according to the retailer warranty exchange procedure and may be subject to a limitation on the number of items allowed per exchange.
CRAFTSMAN (or CRAFTSMAN INDUSTRIAL) HAND TOOL FULL WARRANTY
If this Craftsman (or Craftsman Industrial) hand tool ever fails to provide complete satisfaction, it will be repaired or replaced free of charge.This warranty does not cover expendable parts that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period.*
Other hand tool categories not covered by this warranty receive a limited warranty, which requires proof of purchase.
NOTE: All product warranties are LIMITED except for the Hand Tool Full Warranty. To receive LIMITED warranty coverage, you must provide proof of original sale from Sears, Kmart or another Sears Brands Management Corporation authorized retailer.
So, from the language above, if it’s a Craftsman tool eligible for the full hand tools warranty, you can only return it to the “Sears Brand Management Corporation authorized retailer from which it was purchased,” and if it’s eligible for limited warranty coverage, you must provide proof that it was purchased from Sears, Kmart, or anther Sears corporation authorized retailer.
What is a “Sears Brands Management Corporation authorized retailer?” They don’t say, but it could mean Ace Hardware or Amazon, which sold or are still selling legacy Sears Craftsman tools.
More Info(via Sears)
I am liking the direction that Stanley Black & Decker and their relaunched Craftsman tool brand are going towards, and think it’s great that they’re honoring existing Craftsman tool warranties and extending the historically strong warranty coverage to new products.
Gordon
Lowe’s was happy to replace my burnt out Kobalt power strip with a similar, but not exact match, Craftsman version. Their website said they had Kobalt versions, but there were only Craftsman versions on the shelf. I did need to wait around for a manager, but he said as long as I was happy, he was happy. I asked what would happen with other Kobalt tools that were no longer stocked. He said it was sort of a case by case basis, but a lot of the discretion was left up to the managers.
Unfortunately, that makes me think it’s going to be completely hit or miss. Sounds like there isn’t a lot of top down communication yet.
Eric Henderson
my local Lowes refused to warrant my craftsman screwdriver..they sited exact replacement ONLY. Ace hardware never even Heard of Sears. I’m SOOOOO glad Sears went under
THEY SUCK.
Mike
Same problem here. No more Craftsman for this grease monkey.
Gary Hoffman
My Ace and Lowes didn’t have exact match and refused to warranty. The 888 331 4569 is a circle call only refers to addition numbers or automatically hangs up if you listen too the end. And this was the number Lowes and Ace along as Searscraftsman instruct you too call. Doesn’t anyone employ real people? My oldest screwdriver was bought in 60s.
David M
I just called the Sears number in article and they are replacing my Craftsman 15 mm Flex Socket that broke under lifetime warranty. Free four day delivery.
John F Kuyper
There was a time when it didn’t matter what the tool was or when you bought, Sears replaced it no problem. Since the Craftsman line is now owned by Stanley Black & Decker, the rules changed. Sears was great, Stanley Black & Decker are your problem.
Mark Smith
For as long as I can remember, Sears was always the master of the “bait and switch”, confusing pricing structures, and advertising con games. I’m glad they’re gone, even if my warranties aren’t any good.
F. S.
Agree 100%. NEVER had a problem returning a Craftsman tool to Sears for warranty replacement. Walk into the Sears tool department. Give a nod to the Sears rep behind the counter, hold up the broken tool, they’d point you in the direction of the tool you needed, take the new tool off the shelf, take it and the broken tool up to the counter. They would ring you up and out the door you would go with your replacement tool. No fuss, no muss, no receipt needed. Most of the time, you never even had to say a word. Just come in, get your replacement tool, and leave. That’s the main reason most people bought Craftsman tools, including myself.
Now? Good luck. Screw Lowes. They are no help whatsoever. Haven’t heard back yet from my email to Craftsman. If no response, I will give the above phone number a try, but I ain’t holding my breath. If I can’t get a replacement for my el cheapo ¼” Craftsman ratchet, guess I won’t be buying any more Craftsman tools. No big deal though as I haven’t bought any since Sears sold the Craftsman name to Stanley Black & Decker. Probably won’t be buying any new Stanley tools either. Again, no big deal. Like the few Stanley tools I have, but if Stanley Black & Decker is not going to honor the Craftsman warranty on the pre-Stanley Black & Decker Craftsman tools, I don’t need them either.
Stanley Black & Decker knew going into this thing when they bought the Craftsman name that they would need to honor the warranty on the Sears/Craftsman tools. They said they would, but so far, I am not seeing any evidence that they are. As far as Lowes is concerned, I guess I can somewhat understand their policy to only honor exact replacements. Sad part is that the Lowes website does show they have my exact Craftsman ratchet, but it is currently out of stock. Go figure!
Sam
me too
PETE
Of course, SBD/craftsman wouldn’t even entertain the idea. BUT They should have the craftsman tools that don’t have a lifetime warranty to have a different color craftsman logo or something.
Phillip
They used to have a Companion branded cheaper tool that didn’t have the lifetime warranty
Dean in Des Moines
Thank goodness. I have a few hundred dollars worth of ratchets, sockets, and drivers all purchased from a Sears store. The stores are gone and I figured my forever warranty was gone with them. But this statement by SBD, particularly the phrase “model number starting with “9””, includes my tools. I’m happy as a clam to hear this even though I’ve only had to replace 4 tools in 20 years.
Anita Brown
Our local Lowe’s refused to swap out our broken Craftsman 3/8 ratchet. Stated they would only exchange for the EXACT model and they did not carry that one.
ERIC ANDERSON
YOU should have fought that bulls#[email protected] the craftsman warranty is plain and simple or exchange for a newer’ or simular match like the handle is longer or the head swivels ect ect whatever they carry both on-line and in store. you need to go back and armed with the craftsman warranty i.e. on-line printout’ slam it in front of god/awful lowes i only shop there for craftsman tool echange NOTHING ELSE i shop exclusively home depot and mclendon’s ace NEVER LOWES..
Dennis Murphy
The Ace by me wanted a 40 year old receipt. I said no receipt needed for hand tools. Read the site. Still said no.
Gary Hoffman
Same problem. Called craftman my ratcket was out of stock,couldn’t even supply part too repair it was out of stock. Couldn’t and/or wouldn’t give a date just call back. I have 3 more of these 3/8 ratchets. Oh no looks like the end of craftsman for me.
Jalopy_J
That’s probably good news for most people for whom a tool is a tool. I personally don’t want the cheap stuff SBD is selling at Lowe’s as Craftsman. It’s no better than the Chinese Craftsman Sears started selling a few years ago. I plan on continuing to keep replacing any broke sockets or whatever with a better brand.
Jim Felt
Good on Stanley for publicly committing to do the right thing.
Fortunately, as a itinerant collector, I’m always seeing “real” USA made Craftsman tools in the same Craigslist/Swap-meet/even eBay environments as my actual hobbies.
So I’ve cached a few NOS sets of wrenches, sockets etc. more then I’ll ever manage to loan/lose/destroy. (My wife thinks I’m a hoarder)…
But I love the hunt.
Nathan
Is this good on SBD or Good on Lowe’s – or both. I’m going to go with both at the moment but I like this news.
Don
Ive been steadily moving away from Craftsman to other brands as I need to replace things. The love is gone.
OldDominionDIYer
My sentiments and recent trend as well. I’m over Craftsman and there dwindling quality and wondering whether they will be around next week or not. I have a several wonderful sets of the Craftsman Professional series hand tools and I love them but I will never likely ever be able to get a real replacement just some “suitable substitute”. I haven’t had a need and hope I never do need to get a replacement but still it does sadden me that they have gone extinct.
David Sutherlin
Dave,
I’m with you completely , I’ve had craftsman tools for 30 years, but now I’m told by Lowes that I need to have the original reciept to replace a broken craftsman tool. This is total BS!
Brian
Some of the newer hand tools are better than the original.
I had a 1/4” drive ratchet (Probably 30 years old) And at first the guy told me they could exchange it because they didn’t have the same exact one and I told him I don’t care I want a replacement and the replacement is more of the teardrop shape handle and I like it a lot better than the original !
Brian
If it was a socket ratchet or something that has the lifetime warranty I would ask for the manager told him I’m not spending my $20,000 a year anymore here at Lowe’s I’ll go to Home Depot.
With a lifetime warranty and craftsman it’s right on it you don’t need a dang receipt, and who’s going to keep receipts for handtools like that anyway?
Richard
You spend $20,000 a year on tools at Lowe’s?Something is seriously wrong
Stuart
Are you kidding? There are a lot of pros that spend a lot more than that on tools, equipment, and materials.
If you can’t fathom what someone might spend $20K for at Lowe’s, it would be more polite to simply ask them, rather than to claim “something is seriously wrong.”
Joe framer
Until SBD Craftsman are made in the USA I don’t think many people care.Go to Lowes ,put a sticker on a mechanic tools set and see how long g the same box is on the shelf…my Lowe’s has the same 8 boxes of Craftsman Chinese crap on the shelf for 2 months now.
Stuart
If you want USA-made from SBD, buy Proto. They’re far away from USA-made Craftsman.
Joe framer
Thank you, I know I own proto..I was referring to SBD Craftsman .. supposedly being made here but it’s the same junk Sears sold
Diamond Dave
What is the ending date for Sears to finally get their greedy hands away from the Craftsman Name Completely and let SBD Control everything?
Eric
I believe it’s 15 years far longer than Sears is going to last
Toolfreak
All Eddie has to do is keep the name around as an entity that can receive payments, not hard to do for the amount of money SBD will be sending them each year.
Frankie Culpepper
Who knows, maybe Craftsman tools will become a collectors item.
Mark
Is this the Diamond Dave that was in 5th group USA Special Forces?
Seamus
My local Ace (actually family owned but Ace associated) painlessly replaced my 1/4” craftsman ratchet. They said as long as the part # matched something they carried, no problem. Not sure how that would play out if the item didn’t have a stamped on part # though.
It was the second time in 5 years that 1/4” ratchet exploded though. With light homeowner use. I’d happily spend money to replace it with something actually good if it wasn’t free or the drive to Ace was further out of my way.
Craig
Check Ebay. I may have been the only one looking during the Superbowl but I scored a 3/8″ drive 10″ Snap on 80 tooth non-quick release ratchet for $32 including shipping. Barely has a scuff!
Dan
I did the same exact thing but was disappointed to see my new ratchet was made in China.
Thom
I’m glad to see SBD is doing the right thing.
Tom
I would like to see a review of the Sears Craftsman Ultimate Collection ratcheting wrenches. Those actually look pretty nice, but they skip a couple of sizes in the sets.
Ben
Would like to see review of the ultimate collection. Wondering whether that’s just marketing BS or actually decent stuff. Glad to see Lowes honoring the Craftsman warranty, much easier to go to Lowe’s since local sears closed.
The What?
The warranty transfer was an expectation that sbd inherited when they bought the brand from Sears. The name didn’t change which should mean that the warranty still applies no matter who owns the brand. Its pretty much the same thing that Sears craftsman established years ago for hand tools with a few minor additions by sbd. I guess it’s a good thing that Lowes has plenty of craftsman hand tools (that’s been sitting on the shelf since Xmas) to honor the warranty. The likelihood of me going to lowes if I break one of my old craftsman hand tools just so it can be replaced by one of the sbd craftsman tools that’s available is slim to none. What happens if someone demands something of equal quality or they demand an American made tool to replace the American made tool they brought to lowes for the warranty? I assume that the serial numbers that begin with 9 weren’t made in America. I guess I’m SOL for the warranty. Oh well.
Stuart
SBD was not obligated to mirror the historical gaurantee or warranty. They bought the brand, but that doesn’t mean everything gets carried over or stays the same.
Wayne R.
On one hand, yes, of course. On the other, why buy a brand-name if you’re gonna wreck one of the signature features?
Though, I was in Lowe’s the other day, and none of the Craftsman tools I fondled gave me the same hand-feel that seems ingrained to me now.
I appreciate eBay and pawn shops ever more.
BS Du Bois
I remember part numbers starting with a small superscript 9 since the 1960’s and they were made in the USA.
My Dad bought a set a SAE and Metric combination wrenches in 1985 or 1986. They are made in Japan. They have a nice feel and finish.
NCDubski
Tekton, Gearwrench & Carlyle (NAPA) mechanics tools, Dewalt 20V & Milwalkee 12V fuel cordless are the only tools I’ve been buying for the last few years. When I go through Lowes, I don’t even give Craftsman a glance. I would be 10x likely to buy Husky brand over Craftsman if they were my only choices.
Nathan Rathbun
Dewalt is owned by Stanley, Black & Decker.
Bobby
I recently called Craftsman about an old stripped out WF screwdriver I have. They sent me a brand new one, and much to my surprise it was made in USA. Must be new old stock. Nice surprise!
Bill S.
So I bought most of my Craftsman tools probably 30 years ago in SC. I live in NY now so for one obviously it wouldn’t be cost effective to drive 1200 miles to replace a ratchet or a socket and two the Sears they were purchased at may not even exist now. The “where it was purchased” clause I think was designed to exclude people that bought their tools many years ago so they didn’t have to replace them. I no longer purchase Craftsman tools for this reason. I mean really do they expect a person to still have receipts for a socket set they purchased 20 years ago? Pretty unlikely. Just another way to exclude people from getting replacements. I really do not have much faith in American companies any more. Sad but true.
Bill
Leeroy
It doesn’t mean the same physical store. Sears has had the same clause for a while now, and all it means is the same chain. Ie, if you bought it at a Lowe’s it has to go back to a Lowe’s. My suspicion is that it was added when Ace started selling Craftsman and Sears didn’t want to get stuck with returns of stuff bought from Ace. From experience, mall Sears stores don’t really care so long as they can find something close.
Todd Novak
I was informed locally in MN that Ace and Lowes will only replace tools they have in stock. How convenient that they seem to only want to sell kits. They ALL have the ability to put individual tools on an order, yet will not. Ace came out to me a month ago and said there were so many outstanding warranty tools they were unreimbursed for (from SBD) that they were going to drop the line. This was from an empathetic employee who may have spoken from the hip. I wish Lowes would step up to the plate and do what is right. I am done with Crapsman.
Steve
Will Lowes replace Craftsman rakes and shovels that are broken?
Stuart
I don’t know?
Toolfreak
The rakes, shovels, and other Craftsman garden tools I’ve seen at Lowe’s have a “15-year warranty” sticker on them, which is different than the “Lifetime” warranty that the Craftsman yard tools at Sears had, so it’s possible they will replace something you bought within the past 15 years if you have the receipt to prove it, but far more likely they won’t since there seems to be no other mention of warranty policy with regard to those tools, just hand/mechanics tools and the limited warranty on power tools.
My experience is also that stores don’t replace shovels/rakes with broken handles or if it’s anything other than an actual failure of the tool, like the blade broke in half or rivets failed and the tool came apart. Otherwise they’d be replacing tools every time someone snapped a shovel or rake handle, which seems to happen a lot.
Leeroy
Only the older Sears stuff had the lifetime warranty. It changed to a graduated 10-12-15-25 year thing a couple years ago. My local Sears has replaced everything that they could still order, and I was never asked for a receipt. I asked an employee about it and was told that since there isn’t a way to tell what warranty the item originally had they just replace everything as if it was lifetime. With some of the stories I’ve heard about how Lowe’s has handled warranty exchanges so far, I doubt they’d do the same.
Lee T.
Yes they will , or used to at least replace garden tools with broken handles.
I used to buy my splitting mauls from sears and when the boys were growing up their aim wasn’t as good as it is now and they broke at least two handles.
i figured they wouldn’t but thought it was still worth a try so i took them in to the nearest sears store, where they promptly replaced both with mauls with yellow plastic handles.
that was probably 20 years ago tho so i don’t know about today, but they used to.
Toolfreak
Lowe’s had info booklets on each register last year giving details on the Craftsman warranty policy, which was pretty much as indicated above, except most stores didn’t have any open stock to warranty from for an on-the-spot exchange.
SBD is slowly sending stock to more Lowe’s stores and the ones that have it get a completely rearranged tool department, to make room for the Craftsman stuff, usually in the front.
Right now most of the open stock just looks like the same China-made stuff from Apex that Sears had , but with different numbers and stamping, with the exception of most of the ratchets, which are re-branded Stanley stuff.
I guess still having a store to warranty Craftsman stuff at in person is good, but I’m more interested in seeing what, if any USA-made Craftsman stuff SBD comes out with. Then I’ll wonder how many people are going to exchange their China-made Craftsman stuff for USA-made Craftsman stuff.
Greg
Wright for wrenches, ratchets and sockets.
Klein or Chennelock for pliers.
Klein for screwdrivers.
Vaughan or Estwing for hammers. Vaughan or Dasco Pro for prybars.
Vaughan, Dasco Pro or Wilde for chisels.
High quality, USA made, reasonably priced.
S-K, Snap-on, etc are there, too, but pricey.
I still have some old Craftsman tools from the American made days and I miss the days when Sears was the GO TO but those days are gone. Sad but true.
You can still get American made quality tools without breaking the bank if you do the research: try Googling ” Tools made in USA” or something similar and you’ll find a lot.
I miss the good old days My favorite store of all was Central Hardware in Kirkwood, MO. It’s long gone but I still have several tools, in great shape, that I bought there. It was the predecessor to the Home Depots and Lowes but it was much better. The tools were American made and it had even more: I bought my first bicycle there. Oh, the memories.
Juan
I have found that it is almost impossible to get through to craftsmen to get an actual warranty exchange on tools that are not stocked within the stores. I would suggest Knipex for cutting tools and pliers, Mayhew for chisels and impact tools and sk for ratchets and sockets
Ray CR
The new owner of Craftsman needs to learn how to make their Craftsman sockets without rust already inside the sockets in the case. I have seen two examples of that at a local Lowes. Even Sears are rust free from the store.
I am also not a fan of universal sockets which can strip 6 kinds of fasteners . Give me 6 point sockets any day of the week.
Django
Batch’s put on hold by the CM probably and tbh SBD is just going to be eating pain until they get their own production lines running as the CM’s realize they won’t have a long term contract and are instead just looking to make money now.
Nathan
you know that’s a subject for another day but I’d like to do a comparison or see one with some of these universal or spline style box ends or sockets.
I see a few mechanics using them and claim to have no issues with them.
Matt
Good on Craftsman/Lowes… Our Lowe’s is slowly becoming a Craftsman superstore. I hadn’t been in there in a month or so until this weekend. There’s tons of Craftsman stuff in there I haven’t even seen as available on the Craftsman website. It’s also seemed to lit a fire under their butt to get the store into a better organized fashion. Either that or orders simply came down from up top. Things were just tidier than my last visit. The tool world department is still a cluster but perhaps they’re still trying to sell old stock before setting up a Craftsman power tool area? I don’t know. I’m loving the new outdoor stuff they had. I’m curious about the new v12 stuff and hopeful more brushless power tools are in the works for v20.
Concerning hand tools here though, I’m just unimpressed. The warranty stuff is great but like another poster commented, it appears to be no better than the Chinese stuff Sears tried to peddle. I hope there’s a higher end line coming. Like Craftsman Professional or something. Like these screwdrivers shown above, I cringe when I see those. They look so toy like cheap. Same with the pliers and stuff. And if Sears is going to stay in business now even with a small footprint, SBD needs to be the supplier for their Craftsman stuff. That way the brand isn’t damaged further and everyone’s on the same page. Craftsman is Craftsman wherever you go. Lowe’s, Ace, Sears, it shouldn’t matter. It should all be the same product.
Loup68
SBD should have gotten together with Western Forge and had them make the classic Craftsman acetate screwdrivers for them, instead of issuing cheap China copies of them. The tooling for them has to be there and they would be made in the USA. But obviously greed got in the way.
I thought that I read on Toolguyd that SBD had used Western Forge in the past to make them some screwdrivers.
Tc
Good luck with this! Just talked to Lowe’s, they said they will only replace tools bought from them, if it’s from Sears it has to go back there. No sears within about 100 miles so guess I’m out of luck. Tried the number on the craftsman website, prompts ask where you bought it. It you say sears, it takes you to sears.
Mark C.
Real nice to say warranted for life, Lowes in Columbus Ohio Georgesville Rd. will replace for you but only exact same part number, my ratchet is probably 30 some years old and not made anymore so not getting replaced at Lowes. The man there was nice not his fault and he did give me the 888-331-4569 to call, 1st call 28 minutes counting on hold then disconnected, 2nd call basically same deal finally got a rep gave her part # and then disconnected, only an hour wasted total. I suppose this a way to keep from having to honor their warranty just aggravate people until they give up and quit calling. I guess I’ll have to fly to India and talk to someone face to face to actually get some help. LOL What a joke.
steve dickess
returned broken craftmans screwdriver to Lowes 6/1/19 was told to call the phone # an get code # I wish I could return the $25000 craftsman tools own if they can not replace $10.screwdriver
donald galloway, jr
I registered a hedge trimmer cmcht5820d1 earlier this year but failed to print out the registration from the computer – is there any way to trace this. Phone number was [redacted]
Stuart
I wish I could help, but this is something you will have to contact Craftsman about.
Dennis
Unfortunately, Lowes nor Ace stock 6 point deep sockets in SAE or metric sizes.
Even if you have the Sears part # you can not get replacements. “No longer in stock”
Bill Beecher
Thanks for the quote from SBD. Interestingly, I just use the Chat on the Lowe’s web site and was told I needed to have a receipt. In-store replacement up to 90 days, after that contact the manufacturer. THEN, I use the Text feature on the same Lowe’s web site and they quoted the SBD policy that you have in their reply. So, I will take my broken breaker bar back and have this reply handy.
Stuart
Good luck, I hope the exchange is quick and easy for you!
Doug Hammar
I have a #2 Phillips screwdriver that is warn down and doesn’t work well anymore. Would I be able to take the screwdriver to Lowes to get a replacement?
Stuart
Well, you can try.
On one hand, wear and tear isn’t usually covered by any hand tool warranty. On the other hand, the warranty is often described as a satisfaction guarantee. If this Craftsman (or Craftsman Industrial) hand tool ever fails to provide complete satisfaction, it will be repaired or replaced free of charge. If a screwdriver deforms too easily or quickly, that could be grounds for replacement.
For what you’re describing, the decision whether to replace it or not might come down to individual interpretations, or at least that’s what would have happened in the past at Sears. At Sears, most associates would have replaced the screwdriver without hesitation, but some might have challenged it.
If the screwdriver is proportionally worn down due to natural use, you could also repurpose it and buy a replacement. That’s probably what the official recommendation might be, although I’d assume that most associates would give you the benefit of the doubt or allow the replacement to ensure you leave a happy customer.
john anderson
I’ve replaced at least 4 Phillips head screw drivers that were worn down. Granted this was when sears still existed
David Scarbraugh
Bought the largest set of tools sears store had sold 20 years ago 5200.00 and tool boxes for 2000.00 . When to Lowe’s today to replace a socket and extension. Wow did I get the run around these tools say Craftsman on them and no I.D. #s so they can’t do anything with the warranty. Might be stuck with a pile of junk?
Stuart
If in your shoes I’d call the new Craftsman customer service phone number – 888-331-4569.
Salty
The Lowes in my area are replacing broken Craftsman tools, if they have the same part number as what they have in stock, BUT they are making you show ID & treating it as if you’re returning an item without a receipt. And it seems as if the older part numbered tools that they have, are just leftover stock, that’s being phased out for the new CMMT tools. So I’m guessing once they run out of the older part numbered tools, they will no longer be replacing them, even if they have another model that is “comparable.”
tool
the best anyone can give another is”Trust” or ” His Word”. The fact that a life time warranty exists is outstanding. Don’t blow smoke up my tail……..either , honor your word , or get out of the market…….
Steve
Lowes was a poor choice to sell craftsman tools
Jack C Granger II
Totally agree.
Kathy Mytko
I have a craftsman flash light I just bought my hus band less then 4 months ago and now it won’t charge. Do I het another one?
Kathy Mytko
If not I won’t be buying at lowes again, my husband is a subcontractor and buys a lot of suplies there.
steve klisz
I have a 3/8 breaker bar that broke.i can’t get ace or lowe’s to replace it.i think this warranty sucks
Joe Newhouse
I have a good experience to report. A number of my old (over 30 years) Craftsman screwdrivers and nut drivers had a problem with the acetate handles. They looked like they were covered with mold, and there was a bad smell associated with them. I checked online, and found numerous examples of others who had the same problem. Apparently, it had something to do with the plastic used for the handles. One of the posters suggested calling Craftsman to try and get replacements. I did, and selected the option for tools bought at Sears. I was told that I would have to return them to a Sears store and, like many here have stated, there isn’t one close by me anymore. Just for the heck of it, I called again and selected the option for tools bought at Lowes. I explained my situation to the customer service rep, and she told me to make a list of the problem tools with part numbers and email it to her, which I did. Long story, short, they were able to match all but three pieces, and, after I sent them a photo of my tools, they mailed the replacements to me with no hassles at all! Needless to say, I was pretty impressed!
Doug
Lowes will not replace individual sockets because they don’t sell individual sockets
Dennis
Both Lowe’s stores near me have about twenty drawers of metric and standard sockets with individual prices. All for sale. ace hardware has individual sockets as well, and have replaced several of mine.
charles e moody
I had a couple disapointments concerning lowes craftsman tools, I had a 1/4 drive ratchet that I stripped, lowes would not even attempt to honor the warenty that is plainely stamped on all the craftsman tools . the same one that is on them at the sears store. so why should I buy them from lowes when I have to go past the sears store on the way to lowes, I took the same ratchet to sears and no questions was asked. just gave me a new one. yes it was made in china,the same as the broken one… so LOWES need to check into this or quit selling the craftsman brand that they don.t honor the warenty on, not going to buy any craftsman tools from them in the future either, and will advise everyone that I know too!
Kevin
Craftsman 19.2 volt. MADE IN CHINA…. chuck assembly fell apart . Craftsman will not Honor warrenties … SEARS AND CRAFTSMAN PRODUCTS SUCK !
dstblj 52
When did you buy that C3 tools generally only had a 1 or 3 year warranty for power tools?
Ruben Rojas
I live in Phoenix Az. and today I went to a Lowe’s to return a craftsman 3/4″ ratchet and the lady at the counter just plain up told me no return no in store credit nothing and I was surprised cause i’ve never had any issues with returns with them till now kinda bummed me out cause I love craftsman tools. The store I am talking about is the one in Chandler Az 85226 thx.
Terry Shipman
Does Home Depot honor Sears warranty on Chraftsman tools?
Stuart
No, Home Depot does not warranty any Craftsman tools.
Kevin
Anyone else have issues calling the phone number to get to a person to talk to about a warranty? Lowe’s said they’d only replace like for like, and since my screwdriver is a Craftsman Professional from 2006ish, they wouldn’t swap it even for a downgrade model. I tried calling and no menu options for who to speak to, so tried to talk to someone in part/ordering – and they just told me to call the number.
I filled out a webcase number but never received a confirmation number nor submission email.
TIA for any assistance.
Jerry
Lowe’s closed the 2 closest stores to me and now I gotta drive 27 miles to exchange a tool
Kevin
Follow up to my comment. I used their Facebook Messenger to reach Craftsman support. It was slow, they were slow to respond, yet they did finally – and when I provided the model number, they confirmed my address. They said the professional series was discontinued, and I told them I didn’t care and just wanted a replacement small flathead screwdriver.
Boy, they exceeded the recovery and sent me an entirely new set. I didn’t and don’t need 23 screwdrivers, but I appreciate the gesture to make up for the issue with the one.
Kevin
I don’t know what all this is about, i have craftsman tools dating back to the 70s up to today i take any craftsman hand tool to my local lowes they give me a new one same or similar if it has changed, they don’t ask where, when, i bought it they just replace it. They have almost every craftsman tool in stock. Most recently i exchaned my full set of older style rachet wrenches so they would match, only one wrench was bad they swapped them individually no problem. Bloomington Indiana.
Kevin
Maybe my Lowes is special but since they said they could only replace it like tool for like tool, that’s why they wouldn’t replace mine. In any case, they shipped me a new set. so my situation is resolved.
Douglas v Scott
I have a 1/2″ drive Craftsman ratchet purchased many years ago that now slips. I called the 888-331-4569 number four times and once I explained the reason for my call the customer service rep, a different one each time, hung up on me. How do I get any customer satisfaction to get my ratchet repaired/replaced. I have hundreds of dollars worth of Craftsman tools and I hate the thought I will have problems should I need to need warranty service again.
Kevin
If it’s a standard 1/2″ drive ratchet, take it to Lowes and see if they’ll replace it. If they won’t, I found that I was successful using their Facebook page and leaving them a message there. They mailed me a replacement.
Douglas v Scott
Thank you very much. I will try this suggestion.
Douglas v Scott
Once I told the service rep I was not going to quit calling about the ratchet they agreed to send me a new one, which they did a few days later. Chinese made but works great so far and has a chrome finish with a 72 tooth gear. Did not have to send in the old one which is useless to me.
Matt
I’ve been extremely agitated with Lowe’s and the way that they’ve taken over Craftsman. Today was The fifth time that I’ve tried to take my tools in and find a replacement on the shelf. I’ve probably taken about 20 different models with me. Not once has there been an exact replacement on the shelf. Many of the tools had very similar models on the shelf but nothing exactly the same. Seems kind of fishy to me. Seems like they are banking on nobody wanting to go through the other options of replacement that are much more of a PITA.
Rigo Aragon
Today I had a very bad experience with both a young employee and her manager “Jessica “, who declined to exchange a CRAFTSMAN RATCHET under the guise that it had been neglected. Jessica acted as if though the exchange was affecting her pay.
In 28yrs of buying and using Craftsman tools have I ever experienced poor judgement as today. I will make an effort to reach a resolution via the corporate office and keep everyone posted. Thanks
Toby Cordell
I will never but Craftsman product nor Stanley product again. For the first time in 40-years they have refused to honor a Lifetime warranty on the tool I purchased a few years back. I have purchased craftsman since the 1980’s by the thousands and have never been refused for a tool swap. I still have the tool card it came on and it clearly states that “ If this tool ever fails simply return the tool for a replacement or refund. No receipt is required.” Now, THEY HAVE decided to follow a different path.
Craftsman Tools are no longer quality nor trustable. BEWARE!! Buy from a different unrelated competitor!
Toby Cordell
Comment now waiting “Comment Moderation” ??? In other words, to not publish it until changing the situation to Craftsman’s liking.
Typical trash company.
Stuart
I’m sorry that you feel we’re a “typical trash company.”
Comment moderation is standard policy for ALL new commentors’ submissions to cut down on spam. I’d apologize for your comment not appearing immediately, but as mentioned this is the policy I have implemented and it has been working.
I usually go through the queue a couple of times each day, but there are gaps where I’m not at a computer or checking things on my phone. In this case, I was having lunch.
We have never and will never “change” reader comments “to Craftsman’s liking.”
In other words, I get that you’re angry at Craftsman, but don’t take it out on me or ToolGuyd.
Big Richard
So 40 years of good experience is tainted by ONE bad experience? I think you might want to read that out loud a time or two, hopefully it will sound as irrational as it is.
Over 30+ years I’ve used dozens of different tool brands, not a single one has a perfect record of performance or customer support. Never even thought to just swear them off and buy something else.
If I gave up on something after one bad experience I would’ve quit drinking when I was 11. Glad I didn’t.
Douglas v Scott
Recently I had a 1/2″ drive Craftsman ratchet that failed by slipping when attempting to tighten a bolt. I called Craftsman 4 times and kept getting disconnected from the customer service rep who was probably in India or somewhere else in the middle-east. On the fifth try I told the same rep I was going to keep calling until I got a complete call in. He took my info and less than 2 weeks later my new chrome plated ratchet arrived in a box that could have handled a hundred ratchets. Perseverance paid off.
Chris
I had an experience at Lowe’s and the store assistant manager told me they are changing their tone all the time at SBD. Now they have multiple products waiting on replacement so most Lowe’s locations are reluctant to replace any product they don’t currently stock. SBD brands , Porter Cable , Dewalt now , Craftsmen and Stanley are now made in China , just look on the tabs and the boxes. The older Kobalt products used to be made in Taiwan at the same plant where Snap-on switched their production to when they closed their US manufacturing sources.
The Taiwanese tools had that quality feel and look and didn’t rust. The new Chinese base products are hit and miss and if you use them enough , you recognize polish and longevity don’t last.
My thoughts. Save your money in the future , the harbour freight new line icon or whatever are now made at the same plant as the old kobalt and snap on Taiwanese Plant.
Looks like pretty good quality and for the price you can still go for a bite to eat afterwards.
I’ve never really had an issue on ratchet or socket warranties from harbour freight. For the most part , there’s one around just about anywhere you go.
john anderson
I was able to exchange some craftsmen professional tools at my Lowe’s in Daphne, AL. They no longer performed, side cutters, needle nose and linesman pliers that couldn’t cut 14ga wire. I had to wait for a manager but he was fine exchanging them for similar pliers. Took a lot longer than when I used to go to sears years ago.
Mark
I have brought a couple of rakes within the last 7 to years or so and they did replace them.
Austin lewis
I returned two quarter inch ratchets to be replaced 3 months a go n still have not recieved them now Sears closed n still haven’t seen them austin lewis 31596 hwy u sedalia mo 65301 660 221 3706
Maggie
What is the warranty time frame on a Craftsman rechargeable 19.2 battery? i can’t locate the info. thanks
mark pluta
I have been a motorcycle tech for 40 years and have thousands of dollars craftsman tools and you people made it so hard to get a broken tool a simple ratchet replaced I will never buy another craftsman tool again in my life unless you make it like it use to be you just bring it back to store instead of all this bull of pictures ,receipt, and the rest of the bull. And if you didn’t have the exact part number tool you would give the updated one. Please get back to me and give me your bull story so I can decide what I’m gonna do about the life time warranty that I’m entitled to.
Kevin
I ended up messaging them on Facebook and they resolved the situation by sending me a whole new set of drivers since they don’t make the Craftsman professional line any longer. They made amends. Agree that it’s a pain that Lowe’s and places don’t just make it all uniform but finally their response team made it right.
Roy
I went to my local Sears store the day they began the liquidation sale. I needed to replace a broken Craftsman hand tool (screwdriver.) They had plenty of stock but refused to honor the warranty. Told me to go to the only Sears in New Jersey not closing (yet.)
Fortunately for me, my local Lowes did honor the warranty and replaced the tool.
Arthur Norman
I tried to take my 1/4 in drive ratchet vs 43174,to Blain’s Farm &Fleet,would not honor warranty, said it had to be the same ratchet,they carried brand new tools,my ratchet is a lot older,does this mean your lifetime warranty is no good at farm&fleet.
David Adams
I am 62 years old. I have done mechanic work for over 40 years. I have owned a lot of craftsman tools over the years and still do. Recently I broke a 3/8 drive socket. I went to a Sears home store near me, where I have purchased tools and much more. I tried to get my socket replaced. They informed me craftsman no longer replaces sockets. So I left unhappy. Lowes would not honor a broken ratchet I had either. They said I had to get the complete set. I think that’s bull. If nobody will honor the product. I will switch brands.
Mike
I have a couple broken hex keys and a broken pin punch. The sears store does not carry the individual tools, only sets so refused to replace the tools under warranty. Told me to call Craftsman.
Craftsman would not respond to three inquiries from their own website. My phone inquiry, finally got through after a half hour then I was put on hold for an hour after the rep took all my information and went to check on the warranty.
After an hour on hold I entered my number for rep to call me back. A different rep called back after another 15 minutes, but was unable to help as shown below.
Called Craftsman, the rep (sounds like overseas BTW) tells me that they don’t show a replacement for the 1/16” punch or 1/8” and 5/32” hex keys as they only carry the sets, not the same part number as my tool.
The Craftsman rep told me that I needed to look for (this irked me a bit) the closest match for replacement which was part of a set, I was unable to locate the tools sold individually. They then told me that they would not cover that and could not break up the sets. This is how Craftsman apparently gets away with not honoring some tool warranties.
So now I guess I have to purchase a new set of wrenches to get the job done. I can guarantee that they won’t be the Craftsman brand.
Good bye Craftsman!
Jim Nelson
Just went to Ace Hardware to exchange a defective 1/4 ratchet. They would not honor the lifetime warranty on the exact same ratchet, with the same part number, 44807 on both handles. He said mine came from a kit, not so. Exchanged from Sears not more than 3 years ago. Why is this not covered?
F. S.
This is the exact ratchet part number that I am trying to get replaced. So far, no success. Lowes is a joke (when have they not been, right?). Have not yet heard back from my email to Craftsman. Will call the number above if no response. Unlike yours however, mine did come from a kit, an 11 piece set, part #934860. Don’t really see why that should make a difference though, its the same ratchet with the same number stamped on the handle.
F.S.
UPDATE ON MY PREVIOUS POST ABOVE:
Did get a reply from Craftsman customer service. Here is the information they requested –
Thank you for contacting CRAFTSMAN®
We want to apologize for the inconvenience that you are experiencing with your tool. I will be happy to assist you.
For us to provide you with better assistance, please let us know the following information:
● Shipping address. (PO Box not allowed).
● Phone number
● Model number of your tool
● Photo of the receipt where it shows the date of purchase and/or pictures of the tool
● Length of usage of the tool
In case this email does not fully answer your question, simply reply to this email. If you have a new inquiry, complete a new form from our website.
Thank you,
Theresa
CRAFTSMAN® Support
I provided the requested information and they replied with the following email –
“Thank you for contacting CRAFTSMAN®
We have confirmed the information provided, and unfortunately, this product has been discontinued, and we don’t have any replacement model for it.
Please click on the link below that is similar to the one you purchased that we currently have in stock.
44807 CMMT81747
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-72-Teeth-1-4-in-Drive-Quick-Release-Ratchet/1000594891
934860 CMMT34860
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-11-Piece-1-4-in-Drive-SAE-Mechanics-Tool-Set/5001659671
Let me know if you agree with this as a replacement, we can go ahead and place an order for you.
Thank you,
Theresa
CRAFTSMAN® Support”
They gave me the option of either a similar ratchet or an entire similar set as a replacement. As there was nothing wrong with the rest of the set, I opted for just the ratchet.
The ratchet arrived in twelve days and turned out to be manufactured in Taiwan. It appears to be of good quality with a much better overall design and feel than the original..
So yes, SBD / Craftsman will warranty the older Sears Craftsman tools. Or at least they did in my case. So, at least for that, my trust and faith in the Stanley and Craftsman names has been somewhat restored. Not sure yet about Lowes. Unfortunately though, in my small city, except for a few smaller places to buy tools, Lowes is pretty much the only game in town.
This warranty replacement was however for just one small 1/4 drive ratchet. Not sure if I would have had the same response if I had tried to warranty something more substantial.
JC
Wow, all the Sears craftsman tool anger, need to chill folks. Have rebuilt dozens of engines as a pro and only time I broke a craftsman tool in 35 years is when I did something stupid.
Went to Lowe’s, walked back and got new ratchet, stopped at customer service, gave them old Sears purchased 3/8 ratchet that I over stressed, they checked me out in five minutes no charge.
Really folks calm down, you will live much longer ;).
Tc
Evidently you have not read the complaints in this thread. Your Lowe’s is an exception, if we could all walk in and do that I don’t think there would be this level of frustration. Please don’t discount everyone’s frustration because your experience was different.
Bruce
Went to Lowe’s and they told me if I didn’t have the receipt, they wouldn’t exchange it. They said contact the company via email.
Frank D
I am not surprised.
What tool was this for?
Joe
Contacted my local Lowes about replacing a 1970s 1/2 inch drive socket ratchet purchased at Sears, and they said they only replace Craftsman products purchased at Lowes. They referred me to a phone number, and the lady there said go to a Sears store. There are very few stores now, but I went to the one in Downey. The clerk there said they could not replace it because they have no socket ratchets in stock and no longer get these in shipments. The tool department was very sparse and only a shadow of what it used to be. I checked online today and Sears is still in bankruptcy proceedings, which explains why their stores have few tools to sell.
Cliff Pickard
Sears tried to sell me new but used black PRO series riding lawnmower only wanted give 200 off went Lowe’s got new t-240 & warranty for less than sears black pro junk told them they wouldn’t be in business long two months later gone that’s what happens to people like that karma is bitch RIP SEARS.
Eric
My ratchet is broken and I have the lifetime warranty I need a new one
Leo Neal
Hello,
I have a rachet set but on my 13mm Craftman rachet wrench, the guts blow out of it. How do I get the warranty to replace it? Let me know.
Thanks,
Stuart
I’m sure Craftsman customer service can help you.
JD
A long winded short story,
I’m sad Sears is gone as is K-mart, and builders Square. Recently I was given a 398-pc Bostitch Tool Set 3-7-2022 new in box never opened as a birthday gift. I registered it on the Bostitch site then began unboxing it. The blow molded plastic wasn’t going to last so I went to Harbor Freight Tools and purchased socket rail holders and the metal wrench holders as well. Noticed I had two of my sockets duplicated, and one that wasn’t even labled. I contacted Bostich for replacements and they said the Bostich hand tool line was discontinued but they could send me replacements in another brand with a lifetime warranty. The replacements sent were incorrect. I contacted them again and they sent me a 201-pc tool set. It didn’t even include a 3/4 socket. The set goes from 11/16 to 13/16. It’s a nice set and cost more than three $3.00 – $5.00 sockets.
I went to Harbor Freight Tools and bought a set of 3/8-dr Splined sockets for $10. I think HFT is the new Sears when it comes to basic hand tools warrantied like Sears once did. Funny think I’ve never broken or worn out any of the Pittsburg hand tools I own. Ratchets, Ratchet Wrench’s, Sockets or screw drivers.
Mark Allen Farmer
i have a old corded jig saw (craftsman) that quit working at least 25 years old do these have lifetime replacement ?
Stuart
Probably not. I cannot speak about 25 years ago, but as far back as I can remember, Craftsman’s power tool warranties were limited, unlike their lifetime hand tool warranty.
MM
No, they do not. I remember learning this the hard way back when I was buying my first power tools as a teenager. Craftsman hand tools had the lifetime warranty, their power tools did not. The lack of warranty support and the generally “meh” quality of their power tools from that era more or less permanently soured me on their power tool line period.
John Jeffrey
Sorry about your Local Lowes store being
Dumbs—es . I had a major fire in my shop 3 months ago completely burning everything to just piles of aluminum and burning the switch and gears out of 15 1/2” craftsman ratchets just to name a few. I have been turning wrenches for 40 years and I basically lost everything you can imagine..
I must say I was quite discouraged until I took my first toolbox full of tools up to Lowe’s and they exchanged every bit of it including ratchets every hand tool ratchets wrenches sockets was replaced with new as long as They had it on the shelf no problem no questions asked the ladies just switched them out gave me a receipt and said have a nice day and sorry about your luck ..
numerous snap on Bluepoint and Mac tools that I have collected throughout my 50 years of life I’ve piled up and took to the scrapyard because they will not warranty stuff like that this point I will definitely praise craftsman a fire was started by a Milwaukee battery that exploded that was on the charger bank for my grease gun., That battery charger and grease gun was less than six months old.. shop was 40 x 40 -2 stories tall and it was on the ground and burnt to ashes within 15 minutes.. I hand built it myself and mostly all except for trusses a very good friend helped me hang them in 1997.. I can tell you from my experience take your phone camcorder whatever and walk around your shop and film everything insurance companies will screw you anyway they can I’m still dealing with them and probably will get nothing