The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·01014·Announced 2000-10-17

CPSC Recalls Bosch, Makita, and Milwaukee Power Tools Due to Switch Defect

S-B Power Tools, Makita, and Milwaukee Electric Tool are recalling approximately 180,000 power tools because their switches can stick, posing a risk of injury.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where the switch can stick, posing a risk of injury, but no injuries have been reported, which aligns with the High severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

S-B Power Tools Co., Makita U.S.A. Inc., and Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. are recalling approximately 180,000 Bosch-brand drills, Makita-brand rotary hammers, drills, and screwdrivers, and Milwaukee Electric Tool-brand band saws. The recall involves specific model numbers for each brand, which can be found written on the power tools.

The recall is due to a defect in the switches manufactured by Eaton Corp. of Cleveland, Ohio. These switches can stick, causing the tools to continue operating after the trigger has been released. This malfunction poses a risk of injury to consumers. The companies have received one report of a Bosch drill switch sticking in the on position, but no injuries have been reported.

These power tools were sold at home centers, hardware stores, industrial distributors, and factory service dealers from January 2000 through September 2000 for between $55 and $500. Consumers should stop using these power tools immediately and contact the respective tool manufacturer to receive a free replacement tool or tool repair.

The recalled product

Product
Bosch-brand drills; Makita-brand rotary hammers, drills and screwdrivers; and Milwaukee Electric Tool-brand band saws
Affected units
180,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.