Harbor Freight Tools Recalls Cordless Drills Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall (2015-12-01). Hazards: fire, burn. About 1,700,000 units in the US.
| Agency | U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission |
|---|---|
| Recall number | 16050 |
| Published | 2015-12-01 |
| Last updated | 2015-12-02 |
| Product category | Portable Power Drills And Accessories |
| Products | Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drills |
| Firm named in the title | Harbor Freight Tools |
| Firms | Harbor Freight Tools, of Camarillo, Calif. (importer) |
| Manufactured in | China |
| Units (US) | 1,700,000 |
| Hazard classes | fire, burn |
| Remedy classes | replace, stop use |
| Sold | 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. |
Description
This recall involves Drill Master 18-volt cordless drills with item number 68239 and item number 68287. The drills are black with a red switch and were sold with an 18-volt rechargeable battery pack. Item number 68239 was sold individually and item number 68287 was sold as part of a kit, which included a flashlight. The flashlight is not included in the recall. The item number is located on a black label on the right side of the drill, just beneath the serial number. Drills with item number 69651 and item number 69652 are not included in the recall.
Hazard
An internal switching mechanism can become stuck in the "on" position and overheat, posing fire and burn hazards.
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.
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.
Machine access
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Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall notice (US Government work). Not affiliated with or endorsed by CPSC. Structured by Data Foundry (product-recall-structuring@2); last changed 2026-09-28. Always confirm with the agency notice.