Views: 222 Author: Edvo Publish Time: 2025-05-03 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● Understanding the Craftsman Lifetime Warranty
>> Key Points of the Craftsman Warranty:
● Where Can You Exchange Craftsman Hand Tools?
>> 1. Lowe's
>> 3. Sears and Kmart (Limited Availability)
>> 4. Directly Through Craftsman Customer Service
● How to Exchange Craftsman Hand Tools: Step-by-Step Guide
>> Step 2: Locate the Model Number
>> Step 5: Contact Craftsman Customer Service if Needed
● Tips for a Smooth Exchange Experience
● FAQ
>> 1. Do I need a receipt to exchange Craftsman hand tools?
>> 2. Can I exchange Craftsman tools at any Lowe's or Ace Hardware store?
>> 3. What if the exact model of my broken tool is not available in-store?
>> 4. Are all Craftsman tools covered by the lifetime warranty?
>> 5. How do I contact Craftsman customer service for warranty claims?
Craftsman hand tools are renowned for their durability and backed by a strong lifetime warranty, making them a favorite among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. However, with changes in retail partnerships and store closures, many users wonder where and how they can exchange their Craftsman hand tools when they break or fail. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the current options for exchanging Craftsman hand tools, the warranty process, and tips to make your exchange hassle-free.
Craftsman offers a full lifetime warranty on many of their hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, ratchets, screwdrivers, pliers, and more. The warranty promises replacement if the tool fails to perform for any reason, without requiring proof of purchase in most cases. This warranty applies to both older Sears Craftsman tools and newer Stanley Black & Decker Craftsman tools, although there are some nuances depending on where the tool was purchased and the model number[7].
- No receipt required for most hand tools.
- Return the broken tool to a stocking retail partner for replacement.
- Some limits on the number of tools exchanged per visit may apply.
- Warranty excludes expendable parts like blades or batteries.
- Power tools typically have a one-year warranty only[2][7].
Lowe's has become one of the primary retailers carrying Craftsman tools after Stanley Black & Decker acquired the brand. They honor the lifetime warranty for Craftsman hand tools, even if the tools were originally purchased elsewhere, including Sears. Customers can bring in broken tools and exchange them for new ones, often without needing a receipt.
- Lowe's will exchange tools if they have the same model number in stock.
- If the exact tool is unavailable, Lowe's may offer an upgrade or suggest contacting Craftsman customer service.
- The process is generally straightforward, with many customers reporting easy exchanges at Lowe's customer service desks[2][11][12][16].
Ace Hardware is another major retailer stocking Craftsman hand tools and honoring the lifetime warranty. Like Lowe's, Ace requires the tool to be returned to a store that stocks the same model for an exchange.
- Proof of purchase is generally not required, but having warranty information helps.
- Ace's Craftsman inventory is reportedly shrinking, so availability of specific models may vary.
- Customers can visit Ace Hardware stores to inspect and exchange broken tools, often with minimal hassle[4][6][8][15].
Historically, Sears was the primary Craftsman retailer, offering in-store exchanges and warranty services. However, with the closure of many Sears stores, this option is becoming less common.
- Some Sears stores still honor warranty exchanges but may limit the number of tools exchanged per visit.
- If Sears is no longer an option locally, customers are encouraged to use Lowe's or Ace Hardware or contact Craftsman directly[2][17].
If local retailers do not have the same model in stock or if you cannot visit a store, Craftsman provides options to exchange tools via mail or through customer service.
- You can contact Craftsman Customer Care via phone or online to initiate a warranty claim.
- They may send a replacement tool without requiring the return of the broken item in some cases.
- This option is useful if you have difficulty finding the exact tool in stores or live far from authorized retailers[3][7][9].
Before heading out, check your tool carefully to confirm it is defective or broken and qualifies for warranty replacement.
Find the model number on your Craftsman tool. This is crucial because retailers need this to match the replacement.
Go to Lowe's, Ace Hardware, or Sears (if available). Bring the broken tool with you.
- At the customer service desk, present the broken tool.
- No receipt is usually needed.
- Select the same model tool from the Craftsman section.
- If the exact model is unavailable, ask if an upgrade or alternative is possible.
If you cannot exchange in-store, call Craftsman at 888-331-4569 or use their online support to arrange a mail-in replacement.
- Call ahead to check if the store has your tool model in stock.
- Bring your broken tool; some stores require it for exchange.
- Keep a photo or copy of your purchase receipt if possible, though not always necessary.
- Be aware that some stores may limit the number of warranty exchanges per day.
- For power tools or non-hand tools, check specific warranty periods and procedures.
Exchanging Craftsman hand tools remains a relatively straightforward process despite changes in retail partnerships and store closures. Lowe's and Ace Hardware are the primary retailers where you can exchange broken Craftsman hand tools under the lifetime warranty, often without needing a receipt. If these options are unavailable or if the exact model is out of stock, contacting Craftsman customer service directly for mail-in replacements is a reliable alternative. By knowing where to go and how to prepare, you can ensure your Craftsman tools stay in top shape for years to come.
No, for most Craftsman hand tools covered under the lifetime warranty, proof of purchase is not required. You can exchange the tool at authorized retailers like Lowe's or Ace Hardware without a receipt[7][16].
Yes, you can exchange Craftsman hand tools at any Lowe's or Ace Hardware store that stocks the same model tool. It's advisable to call ahead to confirm availability[6][9].
If the exact model is not available, some stores may offer an upgraded replacement or suggest contacting Craftsman customer service for a mail-in replacement option[2][11].
No, the lifetime warranty generally applies to hand tools like wrenches, sockets, ratchets, and screwdrivers. Power tools usually have a one-year warranty. Some expendable parts are excluded[7].
You can contact Craftsman customer service by phone at 888-331-4569 or through their official website's warranty claim form to initiate mail-in replacements or get further assistance[7].
