The Craftsman lifetime warranty — what it actually covers now
Craftsman's famous lifetime full warranty on hand tools survived the brand's move from Sears to Stanley Black & Decker: wrenches, ratchets, sockets, screwdrivers, and pliers are warranted for as long as you own them — if it breaks, it's replaced free. Power tools carry a 3-year limited warranty, and outdoor equipment varies by product (typically 2–3 years). Expendables — bits, blades, batteries on some lines — are excluded.
The practical question is where to exchange: Craftsman hand tools bought at Lowe's, Ace, or other current retailers exchange at those retailers; older Sears-era Craftsman hand tools are still honored — Lowe's accepts most Sears-era hand tool exchanges, and Craftsman customer service (888-331-4569) can direct you for edge cases. No receipt is required for the hand tool lifetime exchange in most cases — the tool itself is the proof.
How to file a Craftsman warranty claim
Find your proof of purchase
Locate the receipt, order confirmation, or card statement showing the purchase date — coverage is measured from it.
Locate the model & serial number
Usually on a label on the unit, in the manual, or in your online account. Craftsman support will ask for it first.
Contact Craftsman through an official channel
Use the support number or claim form on their official site — not third-party sellers — so your claim is on record with the manufacturer.
Document everything
Save case numbers, names, dates, and photos of the defect. A clear paper trail resolves disputes faster.
Escalate if needed
If a valid claim stalls, ask for a supervisor and reference your statutory rights as a consumer (see our warranty types guide).
Full Craftsman claim guide, step by step →
Repair or replace your Craftsman? A quick rule of thumb
The common guidance: if the repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, or the unit is past ~75% of its expected lifespan, replacement usually wins. For major sealed-system or compressor failures out of warranty, repairs can run $400–$1,000+, which often tips toward replacing — but always get a diagnosis first.
When the warranty ends
Out of warranty or claim denied? Here's how to think through the options — ranked by what usually makes financial sense first.
Craftsman parts — brushes, switches, batteries — are widely available and often DIY-friendly.
Find Craftsman parts →For cordless Craftsman tools, a dead battery is the usual failure. Replacements are cheaper than a new tool.
Shop Craftsman batteries →For lower-cost Craftsman tools, replacement often beats repair. Compare current deals.
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