The Recall Desk
SevereCPSC·03164·Announced 2003-07-24

Black & Decker Recalls 18-volt Cordless Drills Due to Fire Hazard

Black & Decker is recalling approximately 265,000 18-volt cordless drill/drivers because the switch can malfunction and overheat, posing a fire risk.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a fire hazard with reported injuries (two minor burns) and property damage (fires/melting), which aligns with the 'Severe' criteria for significant injury/property-damage reports.

Plain-English summary

Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc. is recalling approximately 265,000 18-volt cordless drill/drivers sold in the United States. The recall involves specific models (CD1800, PS3700, PS3725, and PS3750) with certain date codes, which were sold at mass merchandisers, home centers, and hardware stores nationwide from September 1997 through February 2002 for between $50 and $80. The affected units were manufactured in China and are orange or jade in color.

The recall is being conducted because the drill's switch can malfunction and overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers. Black & Decker has received twenty reports of melting, smoking, or fires in the drills, including two minor burn injuries.

Consumers should stop using the drill/drivers immediately, remove the battery, and contact Black & Decker to receive a free repair. The model number is printed on the nameplate on the side of the drill, and the date code is printed on the bottom of the handle where the battery is inserted. Consumers can contact Black & Decker toll-free at (866) 821-5444 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit www.blackanddecker.com for additional information.

The recalled product

Product
Black & Decker 18-volt cordless drill/drivers
Manufacturer
Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc., of Towson, Md.
Category
Consumer Product — Power Tools
Hazard
Affected units
265,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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