Stuff your lifetime warranty

[imported_Labman]

I too was sucked in by the promise of a lifetime warranty with free replacement. Break a Craftsman take it in and get a new one on the spot. Same with Snap-on, Mac, and many others. Vehicles under warranty that require downtime and you get a loaner.
I'm a selfemployed electrical contractor and use my 18v hammer drill/driver daily. Then I noticed my bits were wobbling and the chuck wouldn't lock them in. One of the fingers in the chuck was worn smooth and would no longer grip the bits whether they were round or hex shanks. So I drove an hour back to the store and talked to the same guy that sold me the piece of junk and asked for a new one. After getting the runaround for 10 minutes they asked me to leave as the discussion started to get a little heated when he told me I had to send it to a service center to be evaluated. Nice.
Spend $500.00 and still have to drill holes by hand. Last time I buy any Rigid product.

[JJC]

Craftsman & other brand non powered hand tools, I agree. Corded or battery powered tools though are usually handled totally differently in my experience.

[ 06-11-2004, 03:05 PM: Message edited by: JJC ]

[BadgerDave]

What kind of car do you drive that you get a loaner for warranty work?

[jon]

how long have you had this drill. the life time warranty is only on wormanship on the material to make the drill,like the housing if it just cracks with out you droping it 20 feet or if the clutch fails in a month or two or even in a year ,yes that is warranty.ridge was only running that lifetime warranty on the batterys so all you suckers would buy there tool.nothing has a lifetime warranty on a power tool.the best warranty on a power tool is milw.if you brought it tomy shop and were complaining about the bit slipping and i saw that the chuck was worn out,and it was a year old,i would tell you no warranty on wear items.if it was wobbling and the chuck looked good,i would try to get warranty on the clutch.

[RevEd]

Originally posted by Labman:
I too was sucked in by the promise of a lifetime warranty with free replacement. Break a Craftsman take it in and get a new one on the spot. Same with Snap-on, Mac, and many others. Vehicles under warranty that require downtime and you get a loaner.
I'm a selfemployed electrical contractor and use my 18v hammer drill/driver daily. Then I noticed my bits were wobbling and the chuck wouldn't lock them in. One of the fingers in the chuck was worn smooth and would no longer grip the bits whether they were round or hex shanks. So I drove an hour back to the store and talked to the same guy that sold me the piece of junk and asked for a new one. After getting the runaround for 10 minutes they asked me to leave as the discussion started to get a little heated when he told me I had to send it to a service center to be evaluated. Nice.
Spend $500.00 and still have to drill holes by hand. Last time I buy any Rigid product. You haven't tried to get a replacement on a Sears tool that has a motor. Sure they will replace hand tools (wrenches, sockets etc) but if there is a motor in it you get 30-90 days replacement and after that it goes to the repair shop. If the repair shop deems it normal wear they will notify you and charge for the repair.

[imported_valsarff]

I'm a "do it yourselfer" doing some finishing work on my basement. Easy stuff for a "construction grade" 18V hammer drill. I've had it about 9 months using it very part time. The trigger switch/variable rate went out: either it's full on or full off. So I found out the local authorized service dealer is trying to get out of his contract because it takes a month to get parts from ridgid! A warranty that requires a month waiting period is no warranty.

My wife also read me the fine print on the web site that states the drill in the "lifetime" combo kit only has a three year warranty. Well, I went to this site right after purchasing the combo kit and downloaded the warranty. There was no mention of that and I still have the hardcopy download if they EVER give me grief! I also kept the advertisement from Home Depot where I purchased it explicitly stating lifetime warranty, even for the batteries. It's clear that they've bamboozled everybody, even Home Depot.

I've spent the last 9 months bragging about ridgid. The next 30 years will be a different story!

[imported_tyxlc]

Originally posted by valsarff:
I'm a "do it yourselfer" doing some finishing work on my basement. Easy stuff for a "construction grade" 18V hammer drill. I've had it about 9 months using it very part time. The trigger switch/variable rate went out: either it's full on or full off. So I found out the local authorized service dealer is trying to get out of his contract because it takes a month to get parts from ridgid! A warranty that requires a month waiting period is no warranty.

I am by no means trying to defend Ridgid or any other power tool company, but if I were to guess, I would guess that you probably use the drill at partial speed most of the time.
All cordless drills with v.s. trigger are designed to run at full speed almost all of the time, the v.s. feature is for starting screws and bits. DeWalt, while not the best manufacturer of tools, is the only one who's manual I've seen that mentions this weakness. So, if you are the type who grandmas the screws in, stop. Run it full speed as much as possible.

[BadgerDave]

valsarff, the warranty that your wife found on Ridgid's website is their current warranty. It's not the warranty that your tools are covered under. All you need is a dated sales receipt showing you purchased your tools between 09/01/03 and 01/31/04 to receive lifetime warranty work on your tools. A search on this website using Ridgid Warranty as the subject should yeild you the official Ridgid explanation of the Lifetime Warranty. :cool:

[imported_Marvinshelley]

I'm a semipro woodworker and bought the 13" Ridgid planer about 4 years ago. At the time there was a "lifetime warranty".
Now the planer is off about 1/16" across a 4" wide board.
Is this something I can repair?
Will Ridgid replace the planer?
I have cedar chests promised for wedding gifts and cannot go 2-3-4 weeks without the planer.
Anybody have any suggestions???? :confused:
Thanks MARVIN

[wallyworld]

I just purchased a 12" Ridgid sliding compound miter saw (model MS1290LZ). The dust bag does not collect the saw dust. Everything about the saw seems to be operating fine, but the saw dust gets tossed straight back from the blade instead of up into the dust bag. I even took the bag assembly off and still the dust went flying straight back, and all over the place, instead of up the throat of the dust bag collector shaft.


It appears that the dust collection system in the 12" compound sliding miter saw serves no purpose. Apparently, other purchasers of the saw are having the same problem. Will someone please tell me why Ridgid is making and selling products with important components that do not work? Time to take it back for a refund and get a DeWalt. I'm tired of being sprayed with dust every time I cut some wood.

:mad: Wallyworld

--------------------

[imported_Dan0]

I agree with Labman. I bought my Ridgid tolls under the Lifetime Warranty. I was so imporessed with it I took out a loan so that I could buy many more tools. If lifetime quarantee doesn't mean lifetime, then Ridgid has scammed me along with a bunch of other customers. I spent about $4000 in tools.

[BadgerDave]

DanO, have you had any first hand experience with Ridgid failing to honor the warranty? I don't believe that Ridgid failed to honor their warranty in Labmans' case. Labman got upset when HD wouldn't take just his word that there was a warranty problem and requested he take the drill/driver to a Service Center to verify that there was indeed a warranty claim. A request that is not unusual, especially considering the fact that he uses the tool commercially. Sorry, but I can't see where Ridgid "scammed" anyone here.

[Rafael]

Labman's problem isn't necessarily a ridgid issue. Sounds like bad customer service at HD, nothing new there.
Again, Ridgid would have happier customers and more sales if they would expand significantly beyond HD. Anyplace I can buy Dewalt or Milwaukee I should be able to buy Ridgid.

[imported_RS]

wallyworld-

Never found any mitersaw with a dustport that works. My DeWalt DW705 does ok with my dust collection system hooked up, but there is still dust. Try a dust hood.If the only thing you dont like about your ridgid slider is the dust collection, dont return it- Dewalt's is no better.

[DonHof]

I would like to know, this is Ridgids web site
and they are never on here answering some of these qustions

[BadgerDave]

The explanation of how the lifetime warranty works has been explained on more than one occassion on these pages by a RIDGID rep. How many times can we expect them to perform that redundant task? Granted it's kind of a PITA to use but there is a SEARCH feature at the top of the page that can be utilized to check and see if a certain subject has or has not been covered already by earlier threads.

Pretty much like the Ryobi forum site, Ridgid has provided this forum for the use of its members and not as a corporate Complaint Dept. If someone has a question that they feel needs to be adressed by RIDGID directly then this is not the place to go if you expect to receive a timely answer. That type of service is the function of the Customer Service Dept. Unlike the Ryobi forum site where you never see any corporate presence whatsoever, RIDGID reps do contribute from time to time on this site.

[Bo_hamrick]

I agree with Badger dave here. You used the drill and it wore out...now that is not a warrenty issue...you do not get new tires when they wear down!!! The problem here is ridgid is claiming professional grade tools and the best warrenty in the business...but you people that bought into that dont understand what the word warrenty means...it is to cover a company against lemons or defective workmanship...it is not to protect your from user defect. With that said a warrenty does not imply how quickly you get your tools repaired. I knew within one week of the launch of ridgid that service was going to be a problem... The parts are in China and Germany where Ridgid is produced...so it takes time to get it over hear. Not to mention not many people want to service the tools because it takes so long and pisses off customers like your self. The only complaint that you have is that service takes to long...the only two options that you have is to buy a tools with a better service department...DeWalt or Milwaukee or call ridgid and let them know they need to find a way to get there parts over hear quickly. For all of you guys that dropped 4000 dollars on a new unproven tool company like ridgid... I have some beach front property in Kansas...The property has a lifetime warrenty. give me a call

[sno job]

ought the combo pac dec of 03 . the drill lasted less than 9 months, the batteries never did hold a charge. The morons at home depot are no help.Now I have to drive 40 miles to drop off my work tools for an undisclosed amount of time to be repaired on what I thought was a lifetime warranty. My customers have a problem, I drop what I'm doing to respond and take care of the problem.Tough to do without tools !! I'll be dragging out the DeWalt tools I thought were junk.Another five hundred dollar lesson. How about some fine upstanding lawyer starting a class action suit on behalf of all those that were lied to about this life time warranty,. Home Depot led me to deleave that if I needed service bring the tool in and we'll give you another one,no questions, just show the receipt, in fact he gave me a half a dozen receipts, to make sure I didn't lose one. corporate greed I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER RIDGID TOOL AGAIN,NOT SO MUCH AS A TUBING CUTTER

[regretrigid]

I too bought the rigid for the life time warranty. First my batt. died Home Depot said they were not warr. I bought new one $80 dollars.
that was 4 month's after buing it. One month later my drill quit I took it to a service department that was three month's ago. The motor is still on back order. All I got was I'm sorry.

[imported_CWSmith]

Man, there sure is a lot of discussion here and I'm not sure if HD truly understands what is and what isn't covered. With regard to "free replacement" of the tool, I have yet to see that written anywhere. The original "limited lifetime service warranty" advertisement reads, "Includes free service on normal wear items like batteries, brushes, motors, gears and switches." It says nothing about free tool replacement!

With regard to redemption, it further reads, "Bring your tool with original purchase receipt to your local Authorized Service Center for RIDGID Power tools." It say nothing about returning them to HD for replacement or for service handling!

The Ad goes on to state, " Excludes, blades, bits, sanding paper and other Consumable Accessories. Also excludes misuse or abuse." The battery is NOT a "consumable accessory" and therefore IT IS covered and should be replace free of charge for as long as you own/use the tool. However, HD will not do the replacement, but the service center should.

Bottom line is that some HD personnel have tried to be helpful by simply offering to replace the tool (which now would only have the 3-year warranty) in some cases. The biggest problem however seems to be that customers try to take HD to task for a product warranty that they didn't issue.

CWS

[imported_CWSmith]

I wanted to add this note, from copy of the original HD advertizement that I have... this was printed in the HD flyer and not on the Ridgid tool introduction insert:

"When you purchase RIDGID Power Tools between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31, 2003, you'll never have to worry about paying for servicing your tool again. The warranty covers normal wear on everything but consumable accessories, so you can replace brushes, switches, cords, motors, gears, fences, even cordless battery packs for the life of the tool. Just keep your original sales receipt as proof of purchase and you're always covered."

Now, that tells me that they won't replace the tool! But, they will repair it...FREE! And, that includes battery packs. And furthermore, in consideration that the motor is pretty much the heart of the tool... they'll even repair that! So, I guess that they'll repair it for as long as I own it... short of total and complete destruction of every component at once. So, I guess I need to keep the tool from drowning, being stolen, or being incinerated.

I made sure I kept a copy of the original advertisements, sales introduction flyer, and of course the original posted warranty. But, all things considered, the warranty is Ridgid's, and not Home Depot's.

CWS

[michael stephen]

i have yet to see a power tool that has a free lifetime warranty... the factory might as well close shop if its true..

[BadgerDave]

Well now you have, for those Ridgid tools that were purchased between 09/01/03 and 01/31/04.

[spacebluesonoma]

Labman, you do not get a lifetime warranty with craftsman tools. this RIdgid lifetime warranty covers mfgr defect/not abuse. the funny thing is that as you descibe it, it is a mfgr defect..not normal wear/tear/andor usage. carry it up the chain. in my opinion, if you like the drill otherwise spend a few bucks and replace the chuck with a (jacobs), not sure if the warranty center would need to see the whole product or just the chuck..tell them for the inconvienece they need to allow you to just return the chuck! My friend has a ridgid 18 volt and it is an impressive unit. they came out after i bought my newest cordless and i swear by it. it is the Hilti SF-121 A. yes it is a 12 V model but otperforms (in my opinion they perform better than anythingn 14 volt and above.


bottom line, force the issue, take it as high as it needs to go. everyone has a boss!it may taks some time and headache, but take it to the next highest level until they stand behind it.

i have owned several cordless and got sick of buying a new one every couple of yers, so i bought the hilti and could not have been happier. another qulity brand is milwaukee!

good lick

[regretrigid]

I like the lifetime warr. this means they will fix my peice of junk for free. I've had it for 8 month's three of which is in the repair shop. I thought that the warr. ment they were selling a product they believe in, not a peice of junk. Rigid told me they had over 200 motors on back order. I just think the repairs should be quick so we can get back to work.

[BigThom]

Some of you seem to think other warrantys or products are better. I've seen Milwaukee listed as better service.

I bought 2 combo packs of Milwaukees 18V. 5 year warranty. Within 2 months I had a drill switch fail. No warranty, since it had been used the failure was wear related. Had two chargers fail within less than two years (the warranty specifically states chargers are included in the 5 year warranty). Because they had been used the failure was wear related and thus the warranty would not apply. Within 1.5 years one of the Recriprocating saws failed.

I've had 5 out of 11 batteries die within two years with an average of 120 - 150 cycles. Milwaukee advertises 500-1000 cycles.

The point is, Milwaukee tools are no better, and their warranty seems to be even worse.

[Crom]

No warranty, since it had been used the failure was wear related.This is a load of BS - who is feeding you this info. I would be over the counter on this. Wear related - come here and I'll make you wear it....then its wear related.

Big Box stores are really messing with customer service. There edict to make more money more money - at what cost???

Oh btw - as a large scale buyer - I do not get any hassels in warranty items - they either take it back or lose the business. I don't deal with big box stores - I deal with local companies that believe in Customer service - not stores that just promise it.

Take a new look at your smaller local vendors - you might get more respect and service from them.

[Lodge]

I purchased a 18v drill in the lifetime warranty period last year. I had for a little over thirty days and it gave up the ghost, in the middle of a job in a remote location. I cheerfully gathered up the POS and my receipt and marched back to HD to get a new one. I was met with resistance at first, but I was not leaving until I got some satisfaction, ie a new drill. I did leave there that evening with a new drill only to have the tranny malfunction and a shoddy chuck break a couple of bits. My solution was to pack up the new drill that I had fought hard for and take it right back to HD and exchanged it for a Milwauk. The End of My Woes.
It seems to me like you all are not demanding satisfaction. Don't ever believe what the Customer Service Rep says at the initial contact. You are negotiating every step of the way. Don't get violent or vulgar, be persistent and don't give in. Since this unfortunate occurence, I have found a nice local Milwauk dealer who takes customer service seriously and I cannot be happier.

[michael stephen]

thers a lot of interpretation on this so called "lifetime warranty" thing.. depend on who youre talking to..

[DawgFan]

As a plumbing contractor..I ahve learned to steer away from buting tools ad the big box stores..They steal your mind by offering lamo warranties only to put you to India when u need customer service..I buy my tools where i buy my plumbing supplies...that way if I have a problem..My salesman will go out of his way to replace my tool instead of losing a customer...

Ridgid has a lifelong lesson to learn in customer service:

A shopper is a person who comes in and buys a tool.

A customer is someone who returns.

[MaxW]

I knew I had a three year warranty with my new TS2400 table saw, but Home Depot failed to mention that the local Ridgid service center (Portland, OR) is overwhelmed, and it's at least two weeks before they can even get to it, and probably over a month (according to the rep on the phone) before they can get any needed part(s). You've got to be kidding! I can't go that long without a table saw! My saw's motor lasted about nine months, and I'm running across a lot of posts in this forum about problems in about that time frame. If I can't fix the motor myself, I guess I've got a $500.00 boat anchor.

[tyreman]

Well not trying to step on any toes.
These cordless drills are often sold and anticipated as the same as a corded equivilent.
They are not!
As to their capabilities?
Sure they are convenient, who doesn't agree on that aspect.
However anything thats cordless has limitations of battery charge, what is being done with the tools etcetera.
we all know this.
many times as the "wonder" cordless tool is worked the bateries are exhausting(heck most of us never really evaluate the batteries status things are heating and switches go and you know the drift.
There is no way even with todays battery technology and manufacturing wonders a "cordless" drill or tool can be the equivilent of its corded big brother.
Makita old tech. 9.volt plus drill with the underside old torque adjustment units still seem to run the gamut of abuse as a GENERAL convenience cordless product.
BUT I personally don't think you can replace the hardiness of a cord style tool in most cases.
Marketing and Consumer Expectance aside!

[ 11-05-2005, 09:57 AM: Message edited by: tyreman ]

[acemery]

What kind of car do you drive that you get a loaner for warranty work?I have a '97 Ford Explorer and a '99 F-150 pickup, both long out of warranty. Whenever the job costs $250 or more, the dealer (Puente Hills Ford in Rowland Heights, CA) provides me with a free rental car. When they were under warranty, they provided me with one whenever the vehicle had to be kept overnight.:)

Al

[gross44683]

I have a ridgid wood lathe that I am waiting on warranty work for. I was looking at a ridgid 15"drill press that is supose to have a lifetime warranty on everthing parts and labor includeing the chuck but apparently ridgids idea of a lifetime warranty is different from mine by what i'm seeing from a combination of the way they are handleing my warranty claim and what i am reading here about other peoples warranty claims. to put all the blame on HD customer service is ridiculous because when ridgid sells their products in HD stores that makes HD employees ridgid sales representatives so therefore ridgid is just as still responsible for what they tell a customer to sell a tool as HD is ridgid knows thst this is a problem and chooses to do nothing about it so they should have to stand behind what their sales reps are telling people to get them to buy these tools.

[gross44683]

I have a ridgid wood lathe that I am waiting on warranty work for. I was looking at a ridgid 15"drill press that is supose to have a lifetime warranty on everthing parts and labor includeing the chuck but apparently ridgids idea of a lifetime warranty is different from mine by what i'm seeing from a combination of the way they are handleing my warranty claim and what i am reading here about other peoples warranty claims. to put all the blame on HD customer service is ridiculous because when ridgid sells their products in HD stores that makes HD employees ridgid sales representatives so therefore ridgid is just as still responsible for what they tell a customer to sell a tool as HD is ridgid knows that this is a problem and chooses to do nothing about it so they should have to stand behind what their sales reps(aka HD employees) are telling people to get them to buy these tools.

[chic]

I think TTI,should do a better job for ridgid because it might put a black eye on ridgids reputation!

[TOD]

I agree the lift time warranty requirements suck. If I buy it why should I jump through there hoops to get a lift time warranty. Sending in the card should be enough.

[ActLtd]

A warranty or guarantee is only as good as the character of the person or Company that issues it. A Company that uses doublespeak in their return policies as an inticement to sell their products speakes to their lack of backbone. I, for one, would be perfectly happy with a ONE year warranty if I could rely on Home Depot to honor their word. I can't, and as a result do not purchase any tools or equiptment from them. This definetly cost me additional funds, but so what, I feel its imperative you trust the people you do business with. The Home Depot has consistently demonstrated a complete lack of interest for maintaining a long term relationship that is based on anything but cost. People will continue to buy from Homer and pigs will continue to be slautered. The world goes on!

DMB

[BadgerDave]

Home Depot is a retailer. Warranties and guarantees are offered by manufacturers. In most cases, warranty and guarantee issues are handled by the manufacturer directly or through an authorized service center. I've never considered HD's return policy "doublespeak". Pretty simple really, if for any reason you don't like it within 90 days return it for a full refund.

[ActLtd]

Bd
Although I do not always agree with your points of view, I respect them as an honest appraisal of the situation. In my opinion, Home Depot, does resort to confusion in selling their products. I agree they are the retailer and as such should represent their customers when conflict developes with the products they sell. I would like to put to vote as to the % of viewers that agree that HD does or does not deal with their warranty issues with honesty, professionalism and fairmindedness,( I think thats a word). We are all entitled to our opinions, however not our own facts. I firmly believe that it is no accident that Homer uses"doublespeak" as a method to sell and avoid warranty issues. Again, let's put it to a good old American vote!

Regards,
DMB

[RobertCDF]

Home depot should NEVER have to resolve WARRANTY ISSUES with ridgid tools that is RIDGIDS job. DUH... I have had a few of my tools that needed warranty work the thought NEVER crossed my mind "My ridgid tool broke let me take it back to home depot" what came to mind was this "My ridgid tool broke I better call them and find a repair center" and that is what I did. I called and found on 60 miles away drove up dropped it off and picked it up a couple of weeks later. The next time I had issues with my tools I let a few of them pile up then I took them up there and told them to ship them back to me. No charge, no problem. I have been VERY satisfied with my ridgid tools and the way the back them up with warranty work so far.

[CWSmith]

DMB,

Meaning no disrespectt, but what does "voting" have to do with warranty issues? True, you can gather the opinions of what people would like to see, or their understanding or misunderstanding of the subject; but, it doesn't change anything regarding a warranty and the rules that are defined for claims and responsibilities of the manufacturer under that warranty.

Personally, I've printed statements from the warranty and provided links to the warranty and, with others, have pointed out that the warranty is issued by Ridgid and NOT by Home Depot. This simple fact seems to lack some understanding and I still see a lot of arguments of why Home Depot should be taken to task for THEIR warranty policies. It's NOT their warranty and they are NOT the service center.

Ridgid's warranty is probably the best in the business, except for the fact that they don't have a repair center on every corner and there appears to be a real shortage of parts. All of this is certainly something that would understandably inflame the purchaser of a Ridgid tool, who needs a repair and rightfully, Ridgid and TTI needs to be taken to task for the many reported problems. More importantly they need to step up to the plate and fix the problem.

However, Home Depot is only the retailer! While I'm NOT a big Home Depot fan, I cannot see blaming them for a tool failure and the resulting problems anymore than I could see beating up the mailman, because the mail order tools I bought died after two months and I can't get parts! It certainly wouldn't be the mailman's fault, all he did was deliver the tool. All Home Depot does, is provide a holding place so you can go see the tool, make the pick with your $, and walk out with it. Home Depot didn't build it, they don't have a parts and service repair department, and they don't issue the warranty! I simply do not understand how that is so hard to comprehend.

So, take a vote and if everyone votes your way, that won't change anything. All it will say is that the majority simply doesn't understand the process.

CWS

[ActLtd]

CWS
Hope you are doing well. I would like to clear up a few things and then, hopefully this matter will ride off into the sunset. Believe it,or not,I completely understand the verbage in the HD warranty. I will probably continue to purchase items at HD, however my seletions will not be based on their warranty, whichever one is popular at the time, or for their product knowledge or service. It will be based on cost, convienence and need.
The answer to this riddle is similar to all others..........follow the money trail.
Why do the majority of consumer warranty complaints involve Ridgid and to a much lesser degree all the other tool manufactures combinded. Why does Ridgid occupy prime location in the store? How many other brands of full size drill presses, jointers, Band saws and table saws are on display? Why is Ridgid, to the best of my knowledge, the only tool identified on the HD racecar, I'm sure a NASCAR fan will correct me if i'm wrong. What about the color similarity?
In all fairness, my thoughts per the "vote" were made in jest. I believe we both know what the outcome would be! As to why I return the defective tool to the store and not a repair center. I will not spend more in valuable time then the tool is worth, besides their warranty clearly states to return to a service center OR HOME DEPOT STORE. My closest center is a 80 mile round trip where as the store is less then 6. You don't need to be a rocket scientist to do the math. In closing, I am unaware of any other tool manufacture that has any reference to Home Depot in their warranty. They state specific length of coverage and locations where repairs, usually, are performed in reasonable time. There are always exceptions to the rule, however, Home Depot has made their warranty the "rule to the exception".
If you like Ridgid tools, buy them. I'm simply stating it is my opinion not to base your buying decision on their warranty, such as it is.
Best to all.

DMB

[Bob D.]

The way I handle problems with stuff I purchase is this:

If I just bought it (less than 2 weeks), I am back at the place where I bought it wanting an exchange or refund if it turns out to be just plain junk.

If its just a missing part (screw, nut, whatever), I work on getting the retailer to exchange it for another one or give me the missing part from one off the shelf or that they took back as a return. If that doesn't work I return it for a refund or go the manufacturer.

If it goes past a couple weeks, then I take my beef to the manufacturer, and I take that route, the retailer is out of the picture as far as I am concerned at this point.

[Lorax]

ActLtd

Would you happen to have a copy of the Home Depot Warranty on Ridgid tools? I don't believe I've ever seen it. Thanks.

[ActLtd]

"Their" was in reference to Ridgid not Home Depot, However to address your tongue and cheek question I accessed the following from the "wet and dry vac" section of THIS website.

How you can get service

To obtain the benefit of this warranty, you can return the wet/dry vac to your local Home Depot store or any authorized RIDGID® INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER. They will inspect the product and determine if it is covered under the warranty.

To my knowledge, as limited as it may be, no other tool manufacturer includes the Home Depot as a drop off point.

To those that have nothing better to do then sharpshoot others posts without checking the facts........go for it, as for me I've got better things to do with my time. I've learned my lesson quickly and wish you all well in your persuits.

DMB

[RobertCDF]

"Their" was in reference to Ridgid not Home Depot, However to address your tongue and cheek question I accessed the following from the "wet and dry vac" section of THIS website.

How you can get service

To obtain the benefit of this warranty, you can return the wet/dry vac to your local Home Depot store or any authorized RIDGID® INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER. They will inspect the product and determine if it is covered under the warranty.

To my knowledge, as limited as it may be, no other tool manufacturer includes the Home Depot as a drop off point.

To those that have nothing better to do then sharpshoot others posts without checking the facts........go for it, as for me I've got better things to do with my time. I've learned my lesson quickly and wish you all well in your persuits.

DMB

I am willing to bet that this is a mistake on the website... however this gives you certain rights. You should PRINT this page (the one about home depot taking the vac) and take it to you local HD store manager and give the the EXACT link as well so he can see for himself. Then you should be able to get him to take care of you. If not take the little survey at the bottom of your receipt and fill it out with some strong words about customer service. Explain everything in detail and provide the same link as you gave to the store manager.

[ActLtd]

Bob
I did exactly as you suggested three times at three different Home Depot stores prior to expressing my point of view on this website. I spent in excess of 5 hours total to come to the conclusions forwarded in my text. Perhaps now you Know my frustration with their warranty review system! no worries, I simply went to Lowes and purchased two similar vacs for use. The same may happen there as well, I don't know, but I confess, Home Depot has wore me down. Do you think that was their original intention! Best to all.

DMB

[CWSmith]

DMB,

Until your previous response (#46, I believe), I had NO idea that you actually had read somewhere that "you can return the wet/dry vac to your local Home Depot store"! No where on anything that I have read, on this site or on any of the warranty statements contained the product manuals, does it say anything about returning it to the store. In all the areas that I have seen, it clearly states that you must return it to an "authorized Ridgid Service Center". In the case of the two WD 1245 Shop Vacs that I own, it states "to Ridge Tool Company, Elyria, Ohio or any authorized Ridgid Independant Service Center".

While I might guess that the statement, "To obtain the benefit of this warranty, you can return the wet/dry vac to your local Home Depot store or any authorized RIDGID® INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER." ( http://www.ridgid.com/Tools/RIDGID-WD-Warranty/index.htm ) is in error, I really don't know. But either way, it is published and as such, probably has legal implications that benefit the purchaser. It would be interesting to see what Home Depot's or Ridge Tool's headquarters would have to say about it. Perhaps more interesting, would be the point of view of your state Attorney General's Office. The point being, don't roll over if you feel strongly about this... the AG's office is only a phone call away.

So, the bottom line here is, I feel that I owe you an apology. I wasn't aware that any warranty statements existed that differed from the Ridgid tools that I own. The quoted "return to HD statement" doesn't show up from the link on the 12 gal Shop Vac that I own. (Actually, the warranty link from the 12 gal vacs, is in error because it only presents the 3-year warranty statement.) So, while I and many others may have thought your comprehension of the warranty was a bit skewed, you're presentation of "return to Home Depot" gave credence to your stance. So, hang in there, your point of view is understandable, at least in regard to your shop vac.

Kindest regards,

CWS

[glen]

I purchased the 4pc combo kit when they first came out because of the warranty. I have mostly used Panasonic power tools (which i still have and use and some are over 6 years old) and some Dewalt (which suck)
I do hvac duct work and use my tools every day. A few months after getting the Ridgid kit the blade shaft on the saws all broke and i went back HD and the openned a new combo kit and gave me a new saw. It's been fine since but
now is getting hot and going thru batteries faster.
A few months ago I picked up the 14v combo of the drill and impact. (i love the impact and use it all the time) I have also picked up the 12v right angle impact.
Well a few weeks ago after really putting the impact to the test it has started to act up. I went back to HD. They offered my money back for the kit but because they did not have the combo they said they couldn't do anything else and said i should contact Ridgid. It would have been nice if they could have replaced the impact with one on the shelve.
Anyway I contacted Ridgid and they responed right back and explained their deal and gave me the name of my nearest repair center, about a 45 minute drive.
I called them and explained the problem with the impact and that i also had a battery that now wouldn't take a charge. They said to bring it in. I went there on Saturday and they said they had already ordered a new motor and it would be in the first of the week. They replaced the battery with one from the shelve. I also showed them the saws all and they said it sounded like the motor was going bad and they had them in stock. I was going to need the saws all on Monday so i told them I'd have to bring it back later.
They said they would fix it when I came back to pick up the impact.
I called the other day on the impact and they said that there was another part that it needed and they would have it in a few days. Well they called today and said it was ready to pick. So they had the parts and fixed in 10 days. I will pick it up tomorrow and they will fix the saws all while I'm there.
I guess i can't complain too much about that. They do stock parts for most of the Ridgid power tools and have batteries in stock too.
So I would have to say Ridgid tools have been good for me.
glenn

I hope they come out with more tools soon like some metal working tools

[guest]

The issue in a nutshell is that the Rigid Reps at the stores misrepresented the warentee and that is where this all gets everyone upset...... I purchased my tools prior to the Three year limited going into effect. 2003 and was promised or told that a life time on parts and labor, stupid me for not realizing that nothing in this world is ever what it seems. I will live and learn from my mistakes....
Also, the Rep or the store don't know which extended the Lifetime Warentee in order to who knows boost sales...after the Three year Limited was clearly in effect, customers were unaware of this and why should they question a Rep telling them that they get a Full blown warrentee identical, to the craftsman hand tool warrentee.....Yes Rigid is covered and you should be really happy about that.....We are not all lawyers, just construction workers....

Be wary of the Rigid Rep at the stores..

By the way the last repair we had took over a year...We had to buy new tools to do the work needed.

This is a great message board.

[duck_man]

Be fair to Tidgid and they'll be fair to you. It's not the store's problem to replace your tool. I'm in a trade too and I NEED my drill daily. The repair depot and Ridgid have been more than accomodating for my repairs. Let's face it, I beat the S^%t out of my drill and the longest a DeWalt ever lasted was a year - I'm going on 2 and a bit with this Ridgid. The biggest surprise is the batteries still take a charge.

If your alternator goes at 100000 miles do you expect the dealer to give you a new truck?

Buy a backup drill.

[mike lane]

I drive a Gm and any warranty work that takes over night to fix IS covered with a loaner. Try again

[res057]

I have a 6 or 7 year old DeWalt 12" double compound slider that does the same thing from day one. But, I wouldn't trade that saw for any other. Anyway, saw dust make it look like you are really busy.

[mcarr184]

ok I have read this entire thread whoooa this is some what laughable.

here goes I cant tell you how long I have been in retail lets just say since I was a 14yo. I can tell you as a customer and a retail sales associate I have always believed in Customer loyality to a brand or to a retailer and have always conducted business in accordance with the Idea that "the customer is always right" except when it comes to cold hard cash being handed back.

Let me explain.

I use to work for Office Max and opened one of there stores as there Computer Department Supervisor. 1. I never lied to a customer to get them to buy somthing. 2. If I did not know the answer to a customers question when they were looking to buy somthing I would find out from the manufacturer and would call the customer at there house and give them the information. and 3. if I sold somthing to some one be it printer, computer, or cable or ink I myself stood behind the sale.

Example1: I had a customer come in one day looking for a printer for there home business. they explained to me that they had been to many other stores and were just looking being my self the first question I asked was what printers had the other stores pointed out to them and they showed me one of the most god awfull printers made but pretty pricey So I asked what are you planning to do with it and they told me it was just for a small home business and kids school work. I went on to explain that that printer was way more than what they needed price wise and that it realy was a crappy printer. I showed him a less costly model with all the same bells and whistles and would run circles around the larger more expensive printer.
LONG STORY SHORT: They bought the printer that day and came back a month later to buy a computer for there daughter going off to college.

Example2: And this pertains to Home Depot. here again I had a guy come in whoes printer, after 5mo. of use died on him in the middle of a work project. he came in and was just starting to shop for a new printer I was the first store he came to he said that he loved the printer and it got very light use and was upset when he called BEST BUYS and was told by the customer service person that there obligation to replace the printer was only 30 days after purchase and at 5mo. he would have to contact the manufacturer for service I laughed and asked him whitch printer he had and he pointed out one of our displays as the exact model he had. I asked him if his was in good shape ( like not having been droped on the floor or anything) he said no it just sits on the desk.
LONG STORY SHORT: I told him to go home and bring me the printer that day and I would give him a new one out of the box at no cost to him . I just got this blank stair of shock from him and asked him if that was ok and that would save him $399.99 to buy a new one and he would have no down time. he went home and came back in 30min. LOL thinking I would change my mind but I had a customer for life.

See Retailers fail to tell customers one important thing about there partnership with manufactures. it goes by many names ( RTV, RTM, and many others) but it means RETURN TO VENDOR, RETURN TO MANUFACTURER but usualy when ever a customer returns an item to a retail store it gets put back in the back and after a Vendor REP. signes off on it gets sent back to the manufacturer and the store gets full retail credit for it. so the stores not out any money and the customer is sent home happy.

whitch made it possible for me to step beyond ordanary customer service to (extrordanary customer service) to make the customer happy and loyal if not to the retailer then to me because they knew I did not BS on anything

If retailers were smart they would teach there employees to strive for (Extrordanary Customer Service) not just Ordanary Customer Service because in todays retail market that is about the only way to set your self apart from Jo Shmoe next door.

And as far as Ridgid customer service and there LLSA no its not the retailers responsibility because most Big Box retailers do not have a service center but there again they could provide (Extrordanary Customer Service) and do what they can to make the Customer happy and and build customer loyality. with out making the customer jump through hoops. before the retailer finaly gives in. it should be there goal and the first thing out of there mouths " What Can I Do To Make You Happy" and stick with it.

[theCOOP]

Buy a backup drill.

I couldn't agree more. If you rely on these tools for your job, then have a backup available. Write it off as a business expense.

Don't tell me about loaner vehicles with your car warranty. There's quite a cost differential between a table saw (etc.) and a vehicle and the cost of a vehicle's extended warranty.

Ridgid has a 90 day money back guarantee...if for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, return it with receipt for a full refund within 90 days.
Ridgid tools have a 3 year warranty against material defects and workmanship.
Ridgid has available an optional lifetime service agreement (customer's option). All you have to do is register for it within 30 days of purchase. call it whatever you want, but it's not a lifetime WARRANTY. Warrantys cover material defects and workmanship. Warrantys do not cover failure due to normal wear and tear. The SERVICE AGREEMENT covers failures due to NORMAL wear and tear...like replacement brakes on your car. Are there any auto manufacturers out there that provide NEW brakes or seals or batterys at NO COST for the LIFE OF THE CAR?

I don't see what's so complicated about all this.

What it all means in very basic terms is that after 90 days, RTV system or not, the item is yours. Home Depot doesn't want it back and Ridgid doesn't want it back. If you return without a receipt and say it's 5 days old and you'll take store credit, Home Depot won't take it back, but they'll gladly send it out for repair at your expense.

[Sylvan Tieger]

I wonder how many times Sears is going to keep repairing auto spins I bought?

Used three times was in the shop twice so now I have two of them one as a spare.

Modern Supply ( in the Bronx) which Ridgid said would repair their tools REFUSED to touch the Auto spin when I bought it in.

Possibly Ridgid should do is have a recall and fix the torque problem then fix the feeder problems and then possibly fix the ;);)

As long as they are willing to attempt to make it right I will just keep using it then sending it back when it needs repairs.

Still any machine that does pay for itself in one use does catch my attention and having it guaranteed for life sweetens the pot.

I was seriously thinking of buying two more so I would have 4 of them and even if three are out being repaired I still had one in operation plus it saves me time sending them to be repaired as I can send in two or three at a time to made job ready .....


I wonder when like Lexmark they will upgrade the product rather then hearing so many complaints from folks I see at the home center????:D

[bob bridgewater]

I too was sucked in by the promise of a lifetime warranty with free replacement. Break a Craftsman take it in and get a new one on the spot. Same with Snap-on, Mac, and many others. Vehicles under warranty that require downtime and you get a loaner.
I'm a selfemployed electrical contractor and use my 18v hammer drill/driver daily. Then I noticed my bits were wobbling and the chuck wouldn't lock them in. One of the fingers in the chuck was worn smooth and would no longer grip the bits whether they were round or hex shanks. So I drove an hour back to the store and talked to the same guy that sold me the piece of junk and asked for a new one. After getting the runaround for 10 minutes they asked me to leave as the discussion started to get a little heated when he told me I had to send it to a service center to be evaluated. Nice.
Spend $500.00 and still have to drill holes by hand. Last time I buy any Rigid product.

My name is Bob and I'll get right to the the first point- I think you are a goof ball trying to make trouble!!!
And my 2nd point is; I have worked my cordles RIDGID tools for almost 3 years now. 2 weeks ago I took my drill and three batteries in to a siverce center with my card and was dirty unshaved and I was talked to like a gentleman.
10 days lader this fine man called me and said "Hay Bob your tools are ready"
I say's cool man but im working some long hours can the wife come in and pick them up for me?
Says not a proulbme I rember you folks just please have her bring in the jig saw on your rebait so I can get the numbers from it, or I'll be out a $100 for that 3rd batterie.
Well My drill is fixed and I have 3 brand new batteries under what you call "stuff your life time warrenty"
Im a happy camper! CWS, BadgerDave and friends, I havent had time to read your threads. I hope im not steping on anyone.
I just wanted to get right to my point.
Labman I still think your a Goofball.LOL

Bobby

[RID.Depp]

I too was sucked in by the promise of a lifetime warranty with free replacement. Break a Craftsman take it in and get a new one on the spot. Same with Snap-on, Mac, and many others. Vehicles under warranty that require downtime and you get a loaner.
I'm a selfemployed electrical contractor and use my 18v hammer drill/driver daily. Then I noticed my bits were wobbling and the chuck wouldn't lock them in. One of the fingers in the chuck was worn smooth and would no longer grip the bits whether they were round or hex shanks. So I drove an hour back to the store and talked to the same guy that sold me the piece of junk and asked for a new one. After getting the runaround for 10 minutes they asked me to leave as the discussion started to get a little heated when he told me I had to send it to a service center to be evaluated. Nice.
Spend $500.00 and still have to drill holes by hand. Last time I buy any Rigid product.
1 Wear and tear is not part of the lifetime warranty. (I wish I could get a new car every time I need new tires too.)
2 The distributor is not a partner with Ridgid. Too many people would expect to replace a part that may be worn out or abused with the distributor under warranty. Only to have the distributor fork out the bill to give the new item to the customer and not have the origianl fall under warranty. The same distributor that you got angry with is the one you want to go out of business for replacing items that have far surpassed thier cost(as worn out chuck fingers prove) for free.
Next time you buy a car, ask them if their lifetime powertrain warranty covers wear and tear.:eek:
All in all, good luck on this "piece if junk" that you have managed to use enough to wear the metal finger down on.:D

[bob bridgewater]

For all that's been said, my RIDGID warranty has stood the test of time and repairs. So lets just put an end to all this nonsense and the goof ball talk.

[NailBanger]

I would like to point out that based on the date of the thread it was started 3 years ago. Hardly much point in flaming someone that probably isnt even a member anymore. In my opinion warranties, no matter what brand or commodity are only as good as your personal experiences. Some people have good experiences and some bad experiences with all different brands products. One persons bad experience does not constitute a failure in the system for everyone. So, that said if you dont like the brands warranty build a bridge and get over it and move on to a different brand.

My 2 cents worth.

[SteveA(MD)]

I regard warranties like I regard Social Security - mostly a joke. BY the time you need it, it either no longer applies, has vanished all together, or doesn't cover nearly what is needed.

[unhandyman]

I was looking into buying a ridgid cordless drill. I used my black and decker "firestorm" a lot, until my two year old dropped it. It cracked the housing, I was dissappointed it didn't hold up to the lil' guy. Is ridgid a better fit?

[harley130]

I sell the Ridgid tools everyday at the HD, I explain to every customer exactly what the warranty and lifetime service agreement states.

The tool is warrantied for 3 years against manufactures defects. If within the first 90 days anything goes wrong with it, bring back everything that you got with the tool (even the other items in a combo pack) and we'll exchange everything for a new one. After 90 days you call Ridgid customer service and they will tell you were to take the item or send it.
I also remind everyone that they have to fill in the registration card and mail it , along with a copy of the cash register receipt and upc from the box to register their lifetime service agreement. Oh, and batteries are included in the warranty and service agreement.
For those folks that chose not to register their lifetime service agreement then then after the 3rd year they are SOL.

[harley130]

I was looking into buying a ridgid cordless drill. I used my black and decker "firestorm" a lot, until my two year old dropped it. It cracked the housing, I was dissappointed it didn't hold up to the lil' guy. Is ridgid a better fit?

Contrary to what some others think the Ridgid brand tools are good tools. I would say the failure rate is not any greater than the other major brands. At my HD, we try to match the tool with the job to be performed. I tell everyone that if your a regular home owner that does light maintenance work, then maybe the Ryobi brand would better suit you because of the initial cost. But if they are heavy users or commercial users then the Ridgid would be a better investment.

[cactusman]

This is directed to Harley130....

I recently purchased two brand new 18v 2.5ah batteries in a two pack. It is brand new. I have the UPC code cut from the package, the E-bay receipt. I registered it here on my list.
So, I have a 3 year warranty..but I can't locate any form to include with the UPC code and receipt when I mail it in for the lifetime coverage.

See...this is what is so convoluted with the warranty registration system.
You never get real verification the item is indeed acknowledged as registered! You send in the original documentation and keep photocopies but then the documentation is always lost!

Now I appreciate the fact you have to ensure folks are honest but there has to be a better way in today's computerized world!

I also notice that serial numbers are also an issue. In the two pack of batteries, they have the same serial numbers! So How do you/ridgid know which battery is which? I have experienced this with my other batteries too.

Also in the registration section you can't go back and edit any errors!

I really empathize those complaining about the warranty process!

Now, about the tools!!! I thought long and hard about purchasing ridgid 18v tools. I'm a weekend warrior so I do not use these tools eight hours a day. I wanted to standardize the battery system so I do not have different chargers etc.

I really like the tools they are very good!

I am not impressed with the home Depot as they are the sole distributors and do not carry the listed tools or extras! Most of the sales folks in the tool area have no clue how the Ridgid warranty works! I've been the three Home Depot stores in the Phoenix Metro area with similar results..I'm just glad they still speak English!

I have purchased almost all of my 18 volt tools and all the batteries via E-bay!!!! The reason is the prices are better, but mostly E-bay seems to have a better inventory of the ridgid 18v tools!

Finally for those of you concerned about reliability and performance of the 18v series of tools..Let me say if you drag them behind you while in the pick up truck, or throw them into the truck from the work site, or not maintain them, or use them improperly they will indeed fail and not live up to your expectations! Batteries are delicate things and you need to know how to use them! heat, cold, physical shock will damage them! Running them beyond a safe discharge or over charging them will ruin them. Water, coffee, or soda on any battery will ruin them.

I have used my 18v series of tools now since early 2005. I have 10 batteries and rotate them. I have used my tools very hard in some projects, sometimes over did it with the tool, and most often used the tool properly! I have not any tool fail nor has any battery failed..

I also believe those using DE-Walt or Milwaukee or other name brand tools will have similar positive things to say!
You can not use the handle end of a drill as a hammer! It does not work that way!!!

Finally let's face it almost all of these tools today come out of the same factory, with different colors and some designs so you can't interchange them!

End of rant...Thanks

Cactus Man

[harley130]

catcusman:
"So, I have a 3 year warranty..but I can't locate any form to include with the UPC code and receipt when I mail it in for the lifetime coverage."

I think this is the price you pay for not buying retail. May be why Ridgid requires those items to register for the lifetime warranty.

[unhandyman]

Contrary to what some others think the Ridgid brand tools are good tools. I would say the failure rate is not any greater than the other major brands. At my HD, we try to match the tool with the job to be performed. I tell everyone that if your a regular home owner that does light maintenance work, then maybe the Ryobi brand would better suit you because of the initial cost. But if they are heavy users or commercial users then the Ridgid would be a better investment.

Thanks for the input. My neighbor told me about his Ridgid drill, and he enjoys it. Looks like I'll be giving one a try.

[oldslowchevy]

Thanks for the input. My neighbor told me about his Ridgid drill, and he enjoys it. Looks like I'll be giving one a try.


you won't be sorry also you might also might want to check out the ridgid impact driver as well

[onlycordless]

FYI

I was first sold on the quality and lifetime service agreement. However, for those purchasing mainly because of the LSA, check how far a service center is from you first.

The closet service center from me is 71 miles.

Craftsman gives a lifetime warranty and you just bring the tool into any Sears store and walk out with a new one.

I don't know if they lifetime warranty/service the 20V lithium set, but compared to the RIDGID 24V set, it looks and feels like a toy. However, the craftsman used to be or maybe still are made by the same company.(TTI).

I did not read the whole thread and don't know if someone already posted similar info.

[DUNBAR]

FYI



Craftsman gives a lifetime warranty and you just bring the tool into any Sears store and walk out with a new one.




Have you seen how badly their product has diminished over the years? Their product just isn't the same from let's say, just 20 years ago.

Easily noticeable on the sockets and screwdrivers for starters.

[onlycordless]

Have you seen how badly their product has diminished over the years? Their product just isn't the same from let's say, just 20 years ago.



Easily noticeable on the sockets and screwdrivers for starters.

I have heard this from other people but I haven't purchased any Craftsman sockets or screwdrivers lately.

When it comes to battery/electric tools, you start to notice more of a lack in quality and longevity between some brands.

[roadrashray]

This is directed to Harley130....

I recently purchased two brand new 18v 2.5ah batteries in a two pack. It is brand new. I have the UPC code cut from the package, the E-bay receipt. I registered it here on my list.
So, I have a 3 year warranty..but I can't locate any form to include with the UPC code and receipt when I mail it in for the lifetime coverage.
See...this is what is so convoluted with the warranty registration system.
You never get real verification the item is indeed acknowledged as registered! You send in the original documentation and keep photocopies but then the documentation is always lost!


Now I appreciate the fact you have to ensure folks are honest but there has to be a better way in today's computerized world!

I also notice that serial numbers are also an issue. In the two pack of batteries, they have the same serial numbers! So How do you/ridgid know which battery is which? I have experienced this with my other batteries too.
Also in the registration section you can't go back and edit any errors!
I really empathize those complaining about the warranty process!

Now, about the tools!!! I thought long and hard about purchasing ridgid 18v tools. I'm a weekend warrior so I do not use these tools eight hours a day. I wanted to standardize the battery system so I do not have different chargers etc.

I really like the tools they are very good!

I am not impressed with the home Depot as they are the sole distributors and do not carry the listed tools or extras! Most of the sales folks in the tool area have no clue how the Ridgid warranty works! I've been the three Home Depot stores in the Phoenix Metro area with similar results..I'm just glad they still speak English!

I have purchased almost all of my 18 volt tools and all the batteries via E-bay!!!! The reason is the prices are better, but mostly E-bay seems to have a better inventory of the ridgid 18v tools!

Finally for those of you concerned about reliability and performance of the 18v series of tools..Let me say if you drag them behind you while in the pick up truck, or throw them into the truck from the work site, or not maintain them, or use them improperly they will indeed fail and not live up to your expectations! Batteries are delicate things and you need to know how to use them! heat, cold, physical shock will damage them! Running them beyond a safe discharge or over charging them will ruin them. Water, coffee, or soda on any battery will ruin them.

I have used my 18v series of tools now since early 2005. I have 10 batteries and rotate them. I have used my tools very hard in some projects, sometimes over did it with the tool, and most often used the tool properly! I have not any tool fail nor has any battery failed..

I also believe those using DE-Walt or Milwaukee or other name brand tools will have similar positive things to say!
You can not use the handle end of a drill as a hammer! It does not work that way!!!

Finally let's face it almost all of these tools today come out of the same factory, with different colors and some designs so you can't interchange them!

End of rant...Thanks

Cactus Man

"So, I have a 3 year warranty..but I can't locate any form to include with the UPC code and receipt when I mail it in for the lifetime coverage."
..................Every Ridgid Tool I have purchased from HD has included a LSA registration form in the box. Of course the batteries you bought come in a plastic wrapped package. I suggest sending a email from your eBox requesting a address for downloading the form. I have found them to be very responsive to similar requests.

"See...this is what is so convoluted with the warranty registration system.
You never get real verification the item is indeed acknowledged as registered! You send in the original documentation and keep photocopies but then the documentation is always lost!"
..............................Some people just seem to have stuff get lost on them. I have registered at least ten tools this year and nothing has ever been lost. The "LSA verification" notice
is always emailed to my internet email address with a direct hyper link to its posting on my Ebox.

"I also notice that serial numbers are also an issue. In the two pack of batteries, they have the same serial numbers! So How do you/ridgid know which battery is which? I have experienced this with my other batteries too."
................................You will be happy to know they do that with everyone not just you so it must be that it is ok with them and it will all work out.

"Also in the registration section you can't go back and edit any errors!"
.................................STEPS.....
1-Scroll to the bottom of this page you are on.
2-Click on MyEbox graphic
3-click on "submit"
4-click on "My Stuff"
5-click on the model number for the product you want to edit. ie:Saw R854B
6-When the screen for that product comes up, find the Model number which is in huge numbers and look a little to the right. Wallah!.....You will see a "pencil" graphic and next to it the words "edit item" Try clicking on that and see what happens!

"I have purchased almost all of my 18 volt tools and all the batteries via E-bay!!!! The reason is the prices are better, but mostly E-bay seems to have a better inventory of the ridgid 18v tools!"
........................................What kind of "receipt" do you get from ebay for the LSA registration process? I agree that most of the individual tool prices are better because people like me buy a tool set for the batteries or something and then sell the other individual tools on ebay. I have never found complete sets such as the R931 or R932 24V sets to match the "sale" HD prices and the shipping costs are often deal breakers on the individual tools. When I asked Ridgid customer service if there was any process for me transfering the LSA to a buyer on Ebay they told me the LSA could not be transfered from the original purchaser. Maybe thats why your warranty registration stuff is always getting "lost".
Anyway......I hope some of this has been helpfull.

[unhandyman]

you won't be sorry also you might also might want to check out the ridgid impact driver as well

Thanks for the advise. I appreciate the input.:)

[homeagain]

Labman - I have been to stores and seen people have heated discussions and NEVER have I seen a HD rep ask a customer to LEAVE. I have personally acted like a doberman toward a few and they always smile and treat me with respect. (Though I admit this with a bit of chagrin.)

More to the point.

They did not fail to honor your warranty - HD referred you to the warranty provider. One must read their warranty to enforce it - don't you agree?

Craftsman does not have a lifetime replacement warranty on power tools - just hand tools, and then only certain ones.

Bottom line, you bought a tool - used the heck out of it, broke it, so send it in and let the people that KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING fix it. Consider yourself lucky if you don't have to pay for the service or parts.:speechless:

[bob bridgewater]

I would like to point out that based on the date of the thread it was started 3 years ago. Hardly much point in flaming someone that probably isnt even a member anymore. In my opinion warranties, no matter what brand or commodity are only as good as your personal experiences. Some people have good experiences and some bad experiences with all different brands products. One persons bad experience does not constitute a failure in the system for everyone. So, that said if you dont like the brands warranty build a bridge and get over it and move on to a different brand.

My 2 cents worth.

Why are folks still talking about it?

[harley130]

Why are folks still talking about it?

I guess because it is still relevant to the tools today. Just yesterday I had a guy to come in with a 24 volt battery that had died. He was under the impression that he could just swap it out. I explained to him that the warranty was with Ridgid not HD. He got really pissed and told me that the salesman who sold it to him told him he could just bring it back and swap it. I asked if he knew the guys name and he said no. I asked for proof of purchase and if he had registered the LSA. He looked at me like a deer in the headlights and ask me "What the hell are you talking about?" He didn't have any paperwork, the battery was "well used" to say the least and he wanted a new in the package battery in exchange for it. Needless to say, he left the store in a huff cussing like my ole navy chief. For all I know, he could have found the battery on the side of the road and was trying to get a new one to sell on Ebay.

[srgallan]

To register for the LSA, do you need to mail the original receipt or just a copy along with the UPC code?

[CWSmith]

You need to send a "copy" of the receipt and the actual UPC cut from the box. In some cases the UPC has been waived (I think that's when there's also a rebate which the UPC is required for that... but I'd check on the UPC thing by calling customer service.)

CWS

[harley130]

I hope they waive the UPC requirement when we sell the display tools or tools that have been returned without the box (HD's 90 day no questions asked return policy). We get tools brought back all the time that folks took out used to do their project and then return and claim they're not satisfied with them. Cheaper than renting tools I guess. If I was making the rules, the item would have to be in resalable condition including the original packaging. But mine ain't to drive the train.

[bob bridgewater]

Its like this folks I have the lifetime warranty cause I bought the kit when it first came out! I sent my card to activate it along with the rebate for the jig saw and another battery.
You cry babies should have bought it when it was still the life time warranty!!!
I have had my tools fixed along with two brand new batteries cause I registered my kit with RIDGID and was sent a card with my name and ID number.
If you got yours the first year when they first came out good for good for you!!!
Today I really wish I had the Lith packs But im stuck with my old kit because if it breaks I only have to take it to a service center, wait ten days for a new one even a battery for free!!!
Im still waiting for anyone on this thread to find a better deal that I got 3 years ago!!!!! GOOD LUCK...
Yours truly
Bobby.

[CWSmith]

Harley,

Actually, I thought the "rule" was that they needed to be returned in the same packaging, but perhaps I'm wrong on that assumption.

However, regardless of any "Satisfaction" return policy, any tool that is tried and returned should make the tool unsaleable as a new item, especially if the tool is used, packaging damaged, or missing items, etc. The store should be either discounting those items or returning them to the manufacturer. They definitely should NOT be going back out on the shelf for resale as a new item; especially if there is any disruption to the product, its packaging or a questionable reason for return.

When a customer comes into the store (any store) and buys a product, they expect to get something that is brand-new... not previously tried and returned, mis-handled, or in any other way used. While that might fly in the face of Home Depot logistics, the fact is that once the package is opened and the tool is "tried", it is now a "USED" item. To sell it as a brand-new item is, in many states, against the law!

If that causes a problem with Home Depot, or the manufacturer, then they need to amend their return policy, but otherwise, they're putting one over on unsuspecting customers.

BTW, the LLSA is still in existance and available to anyone who will take the time to properly register their Ridgid power tool.

CWS

[horsemanwill]

I purchased my Ridgid 24 volt 3 piece set when they first started the lifetime warrenty. Just recently i had a problem with a battery not holding a charge and the charger saying bad battery. I emailed Ridgid and they told me the closest service center was about 40 miles from me. I contacted the service center and they informed me that they do pickups in my city once every two weeks at a local lumber yard. If i wanted to wait i could drop it off there and they would pick it up and then contact me later. Since i wasn't willing to wait for a pickup i drove to their site and dropped off the set. They told me ahead of time to bring it all so that they can make sure that it's not one of the tools causing the battery to go bad. It turned out to be a switch in the sawzall. They replaced the switch, got a new battery, put a new chuck on my drill at my request, and even managed to get me a new bag since my old one was all torn up. I myself have had no problem with the lifetime warranty. And plan on getting new Ridgid tools when i can.

[CWSmith]

horsemanwill,

Way to go! Now that's the kind of experience more people should post, IMO. I have yet to need to exercise the LLSA, but I have every confidence that when the time comes, it will be an experience similar to yours.

My nearest authorized service center, though quite far away, is the same place that provides service for Ryobi. I have had to send in one of my Ryobi tools for warranty service and found the center to be very courteous and quite prompt, with no hassles whatsoever!

Again, thanks for posting your experience and welcome to the forum,

CWS

[horsemanwill]

:D:eek:oh ya did i also mention that they mailed it back to me with no charge. and it only took 2 days via ups.

[bob bridgewater]

Horsemanwill. Very good investment was'nt it!
See folks;
Ridgid will honer there warenty, just like the have been doing mine To!
Thanks Ridgid.

Bobby

[horsemanwill]

it seems to me what the problem is, is that the ppl keep going back to the store that it was bought from. now if HD was Ridgid instead of HD i can see the problem but it's not. And keep in mind when a "sales person" in a store sells you something they are just trying to make a sale. Especially in a big chain like HD.

[kelplumber]

the first time my sawzall went, i was sent by ridgid to a local repair shop. they had my saw for a month then i was told they were getting jerked around by ridgid so come pick up my saw sorry they aren't sending parts to my location. next they sent me to another shop who basically said the same. so off to ridgid my saw gets mailed. well another month later i get my saw back repaired. 2 months in a trade with no sawzall. next the charger goes, 3 times. they even told me it is not misuse or abuse just a flaw each time it was replaced. the thing is it took a combined 2.5 months with no charger. no cordless tools for 2.5 months! well my charger and 3 batteries have been at the local home depot for 5 another 2 months because they won't send them to ridgid to get repaired/replaced without me sending my whole tool kit (4 piece) with the order????????? what the $#@*.!!!!! warranty doesn't mean anything if i am out of work while these guys f-around. a new charger is fine but out of work for months because they can't figure out what to do with my stuff, get serious. my apprentice has a milwaukee 18v set, guess what, the drill crapped out on him he goes back to the store, he gets a now one out of the box in minutes!!! the manager says they have a good relationship with milwaukee so milwaukee will take care of everything. talk about service. i buy over a grand of orange crap and i beg borrow and steal tools from buddies just to go to work everyday. bull#&*@. the last of the orange in my van and tradesman i meet out there will hear my story. by the way i know an electrical company with 16 employees who is boycotting ridgid and they are not shy about telling the whole site about there nightmares as well.

[NHMaster3015]

The only cordless tools in my van are a 18V milwaukee drill and a flashlight.
And your post is the reason why.

[Service Guy]

I too was sucked in by the promise of a lifetime warranty with free replacement. Break a Craftsman take it in and get a new one on the spot. Same with Snap-on, Mac, and many others. Vehicles under warranty that require downtime and you get a loaner.
I'm a selfemployed electrical contractor and use my 18v hammer drill/driver daily. Then I noticed my bits were wobbling and the chuck wouldn't lock them in. One of the fingers in the chuck was worn smooth and would no longer grip the bits whether they were round or hex shanks. So I drove an hour back to the store and talked to the same guy that sold me the piece of junk and asked for a new one. After getting the runaround for 10 minutes they asked me to leave as the discussion started to get a little heated when he told me I had to send it to a service center to be evaluated. Nice.
Spend $500.00 and still have to drill holes by hand. Last time I buy any Rigid product.

What a whiny crybaby. WAHHWAHHWAHHH! :killingme:

[bob bridgewater]

Goof balls and all others that apply!
I have had my Rigid kit for quite a few years now! Although my drill is back in the service center now along with the duel charger.(I had to wiggle the cord at the base to get the power to connect)
The last time in was with was for my drill for in the hammer drill mechanism that went out.
This time it is the trigger on the drill.
Everything is getting fixed FOR FREE AGAIN FROM MY LIFE TIME WARRENTY.
I'll have it back in less than ten days.
And for the cry baby's that want say they you cant wait that long, I WISH I HAD THE MONEY TO GO OUT AND REPLACE THE DRILL OR BATTERY'S.
Must be nice . But I'm im not as well off as you!!!
Thing's are if I want, I still have a back up! ---My Ryobi kit if I wanna spend the money on new batteries
So with enough said, I am a happy camper with ridgid. I'll just use another kit on our crew and one is a Dewalt and the packs are almost dead! But we have back up's

If your out there like me on big jobs, lets just get the job dun and get on to the next with out the cry babys!!!
.