Should You Buy Factory Reconditioned Power Tools?

drill If you’ve been reading here for awhile, you know we’re huge fans of reconditioned power tools. Why? Because reconditioned tools sell for about 25-60% off retail, and they almost always include the same warranty as their retail counterparts. But even with such deep discounts and a warranty promise, does it make sense to buy reconditioned tools? After all, aren’t there risks to buying something that’s already been used and broken?

Risks of Buying Refurbished Tools

The answer is yes, there are risks. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy a reconditioned tool. You should have right-set expectations so that if something does go wrong, you’ll know how to handle it.

Risk #1: The tool was broken once, it could break again in exactly the same way: If a tool is being sold in a reconditioned state, it means something on the tool has already broken. Since most factory warranties don’t cover user abuse, the reconditioned tool likely had some flaw in parts or process that caused the problem. For instance, in the case of compressor kits, it is not uncommon for an internal valve to break, or a hose connecting the compressor to the tank to fail. In some cases, the manufacturer fixes the flaw using the same parts and process as the original unit, and you have just as much of a chance to experience it as the first person who owned the unit. In this case, it’s a numbers game.

Risk #2: Parts of the tool could be worn out: Many tools, including saws, drills, and every battery-powered hand tool, have wear parts. Sometimes reconditioned tools will ship with the blades, drill bits, or batteries that were included in the original retail package, and may have been used (or abused) by the first owner. In the case of battery-powered tools, battery life could be significantly reduced due to prior wear.

Risk #3: Parts of the tool could be missing: While less common, it is possible that reconditioned tools ship with missing parts. Reconditioned tools do not enjoy the same structured manufacturing process at the factory, since the repairs required may vary, sending the tool to different repair areas. As a result, some parts may never make it into the final package.

Steps to Avoid Risks When Buying Reconditioned

There are a few strategies you can use to ensure buying reconditioned tools doesn’t end up costing you more time and hassle than they’re worth…

Step 1: Call the retailer and understand their return policy. If there’s a problem on arrival, can you send the tool back to them or does it need to ship to the manufacturer? Do you have to pay the return shipping, or will they? How long do you have to work with them before the burden shifts to the manufacturer? Can you buy an extended warranty through the retailer that will cover you for a longer period?

Step 2: Call the manufacturer and understand their warranty policy. What is the return policy? How long will you have to wait before a new tool ships to you if you have a problem? What proof of purchase evidence do you need to present? How can you ensure that they won’t blame you for defects in the tool that pre-existed your purchase of the tool?

Step 3: Take digital pictures of any major defects on the tool when it arrives. For instance, if you bought a compressor kit and the compressor has a big dent in the side, take a picture of the dent when you first opened the tool so that you’ll have that available if any questions arise. Keep all receipts and the pictures in a file folder for later reference. If the tool looks like the repair was questionable, send it back and request another product.

Is it Worth it?

Even with the risks, we think reconditioned tools make a lot of sense for the average do-it-yourselfer. Most of us don’t put our tools under the major stresses they might see in a professional’s hands, meaning we’ll probably stress the tools less, anyway.

What do you think? Do you buy reconditioned tools? Have you had any bad experiences?

photo by cesarastudillo.