What was recalled
If you own a DeWALT power tool purchased in early 2019, it is important to verify whether your specific drill falls under an active safety recall issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This notice pertains specifically to certain models of the DeWALT DWD110 and DeWALT DWD112 3/8-inch variable speed reversing drills. These are not general power tools but specific, identifiable units that were manufactured during a particular window of time and distributed through various retail channels. The recall was officially announced on February 5, 2019, meaning any drill sold prior to this date may be part of the affected batch if it matches the criteria below.
To determine if your tool is included in this recall, you must look closely at both the model number and the unique date code etched into the body of the drill. The affected models are strictly the DWD110 and the DWD112. Visually, these drills are distinctively yellow with black accents and feature a power cable connected at one end, distinguishing them from cordless versions. The model number is located on a label affixed to the right side of the drill’s body. However, the model number alone is not enough; you must also check the date code, which is etched directly into the plastic housing below that label.
The recall covers only those drills with date codes ranging from 2017-37-FY through 2018-22-FY. If your drill’s date code falls outside this range, it is not part of this specific recall. Additionally, if you see an "X" marked immediately after the date code on your tool, it indicates that the unit has already undergone inspection and repair by the manufacturer, and therefore is not affected by this current notice. For consumers who cannot locate a date code or find the marking unclear, the CPSC advises contacting the company directly for clarification.
While the recall facts provided do not specify the exact number of units sold or the specific retail stores where they were distributed, it is common for these professional-grade tools to be available at major home improvement centers, hardware stores, and online retailers. The product names are listed as DeWALT DWD110 with UPC 885911037518 and DeWALT DWD112 with UPC 885911057319. If you have one of these items, please take a moment to check the date code today. Your safety is the priority, and verifying the status of your tool is a simple, quick step that ensures peace of mind.
The hazard, explained
When you pick up a power drill, you expect the electricity to stay safely contained within the tool’s casing until it reaches the motor. However, in the case of these recalled DeWALT DWD110 and DWD112 drills, that fundamental safety barrier has failed. The core issue lies in the internal wiring. Over time, or potentially due to a manufacturing flaw, the insulation on the wires inside the drill can wear down or shift out of place. When this happens, the exposed metal conductor inside the wire comes into direct contact with the drill’s internal moving parts.
Here is why that specific contact is so dangerous: the motor and gears inside a drill are made of metal, which is an excellent conductor of electricity. Normally, these parts are grounded or isolated to prevent current from flowing through them. But when a live wire touches a moving metal component, it effectively turns that part of the drill into an energized surface. This means that the outer shell of the tool, which you hold firmly in your hand during operation, can suddenly become electrified.
This is what safety experts call a "shock hazard." Unlike a mechanical injury where you might cut yourself on a spinning bit, a shock hazard is invisible and immediate. If your skin is dry, you might feel a tingling sensation or a minor jolt. But if your hands are damp from sweat, condensation, or working in a humid environment, your body’s resistance to electricity drops significantly. In that scenario, the electrical current can flow more easily through your body, potentially causing painful muscle contractions, burns at the contact points, or in severe cases, interfering with your heart’s rhythm.
The irony of this defect is that it often manifests during routine use. You are holding the drill to drive a screw or bore into wood, applying pressure and grip. The very action of using the tool increases the likelihood that you will touch an energized part if the wiring fault exists. Because the drills in question are variable speed reversing drills, they have complex internal mechanisms with many moving parts. The more these parts move, the higher the risk that a frayed wire will brush against them. This isn't just about the drill breaking; it is about the tool turning into an unintended electrical source while you are holding it.
It is important to note that this hazard does not always result in an immediate accident. Many people may use these drills for months without feeling anything unusual. However, the risk does not disappear because no shock has been reported yet. The potential for harm is present every time the drill is turned on and held by a human hand. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and DeWALT are treating this with such urgency. They are not waiting for an injury report to act; they are acting because the mechanism for injury is built into the product’s design.
Understanding this physical process helps explain why simply being careful isn't enough. You cannot visually inspect the inside of the drill to see if a wire is touching a gear. You cannot feel the insulation wearing down from the outside. The only way to ensure you are not holding an electrified tool is to have it professionally inspected, as the internal wiring is sealed within the housing and requires disassembly to check properly.
Who is most at risk
Understanding who is most vulnerable to this specific recall requires looking beyond the simple fact that a drill is defective. The DeWALT DWD110 and DWD112 drills affected by this safety notice are professional-grade tools, typically found in the hands of construction workers, carpenters, handymen, and serious DIY enthusiasts. These individuals often use these 3/8-inch variable speed reversing drills for demanding tasks that involve prolonged grip and sustained pressure. The primary risk here is not just about owning the tool, but about how it is used. Because the hazard stems from internal wiring contacting moving parts, the danger manifests during operation. This means the risk is concentrated among users who are actively drilling, particularly in environments where the drill might be subjected to vibration, heat, or physical stress that could exacerbate the wiring fault.
While any user can be injured by an electrical shock, certain groups face heightened consequences if they were to encounter this specific hazard. For professional contractors and tradespeople who rely on these tools daily for their livelihood, the impact of a shock incident is twofold: physical injury and potential loss of income. A significant electric shock while operating heavy machinery or working at heights could lead to secondary accidents, such as falling from a ladder or dropping the tool, which can cause severe trauma beyond the electrical burn itself. These users are often in wet conditions, metal ladders, or near grounded surfaces, which can lower body resistance and make even a minor wiring fault potentially dangerous.
Homeowners and DIYers who may not have the same level of training or experience with industrial-grade power tools also fall into a vulnerable category. Novice users might be less familiar with recognizing early signs of tool malfunction, such as unusual warmth or tingling sensations in the handle. Because the recall specifies that the issue is internal and related to wiring contact, there may be no obvious external warning sign before a shock occurs. This lack of visible warning makes experienced users slightly safer simply because they are more attuned to subtle changes in tool performance, whereas casual users might continue using the drill until an incident happens.
Children and other household members who are not the primary operators are also at risk, though indirectly. If a recalled drill is left plugged in or stored in a garage where it might be handled by someone unaware of its status, they could inadvertently pick up a faulty tool. Since the defect involves live electrical components contacting moving parts, any contact with the housing while the tool is powered on poses a risk. Therefore, the entire household using these specific models—identified by date codes between 2017-37-FY and 2018-22-FY—should be considered at potential risk until the free inspection and repair are completed.
- Professional Tradespeople: High exposure due to frequent, heavy use in varied environments.
- Drywallers and Carpenters: Often work in conditions where grounding is unpredictable, increasing shock severity.
- Inexperienced DIYers: May lack the training to recognize subtle pre-failure signs of electrical faults.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action, it is essential to confirm whether your specific tool is part of this recall. Because DeWALT produces many different models with similar appearances, relying solely on the brand name or the general look of the drill is not enough to determine safety. You need to verify three specific details: the exact model number, the manufacturing date code, and whether a prior inspection has already been performed. The affected products are specifically the DeWALT DWD110 and DWD112 3/8-inch variable speed reversing drills. These tools are distinctively colored yellow with black accents and feature a power cable connected at one end. If your drill matches this description but is a different model number, it is not included in this specific recall notice.
To begin your verification process, locate the identification label on the right side of the drill body. This label contains the model number, which will clearly state either "DWD110" or "DWD112." You can also cross-reference the product name with the Universal Product Code (UPC) if you have the original packaging or receipt. The UPC for the DeWALT DWD110 is 885911037518, and the UPC for the DeWALT DWD112 is 885911057319. However, having the correct model number and UPC alone does not guarantee the drill is recalled; you must check the date code to be certain.
The date code is etched directly into the body of the drill, located just below the identification label on the right side. This code tells you when the unit was manufactured. Only drills with date codes falling between 2017-37-FY and 2018-22-FY are subject to this recall. If your date code is outside this range, your drill is safe and does not require repair under this notice. It is crucial to read the entire code carefully to ensure it falls within these specific boundaries.
There is one important exception that could save you a call. Look closely at the date code you found etched into the drill. If the date code is immediately followed by an "X," it means the unit has already been inspected and modified by DeWALT. These units are not affected by the recall and do not need further action. However, if your drill does not have a date code at all, or if you simply cannot locate the etching due to wear or dirt, you should not assume it is safe. In these cases, contact DeWALT directly for assistance in identifying your unit's status.
What to do — step by step
If you own a DeWALT drill that matches the description of this recall, your immediate priority is to ensure safety by taking specific, concrete actions. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and DeWALT have issued clear guidance on how to handle this situation. Please follow these steps carefully to protect yourself and your household from potential electrical shock hazards.
Step 1: Stop using the drill immediately. This is the most critical action you must take. The recall involves a defect where the internal wiring can come into contact with moving parts, creating a risk of electric shock. Do not attempt to use the tool for any purpose, even briefly. Put the drill in a safe location where it cannot be accidentally picked up and used by family members, roommates, or guests. Treat it as if it is currently plugged in and dangerous, rather than assuming it is harmless because it is turned off.
Step 2: Verify your model and date code. Before contacting the company, confirm that your specific unit is part of this recall. Look for a label on the right side of the drill to find the model number. The affected models are specifically the DeWALT DWD110 (UPC 885911037518) and the DeWALT DWD112 (UPC 885911057319). Next, look below that label for a date code etched directly into the body of the drill. Only drills with date codes ranging from 2017-37-FY through 2018-22-FY are included in this recall. If you see an "X" after your date code, your drill has already been inspected and is safe to use; it is not part of this recall.
Step 3: Contact DeWALT for a free inspection and repair. If your drill falls within the affected date range, or if you have a drill with no date code at all (which also requires verification), you need to reach out to the manufacturer. DeWALT is offering a free inspection and repair service for these units. You can contact them via their toll-free number at 855-752-5259. They are available to assist you Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Alternatively, you may send an email to recall@sbdinc.com for assistance.
Step 4: Follow the company’s instructions. When you contact DeWALT, they will guide you through their specific process for scheduling the repair. Do not attempt to open the drill yourself or try to fix the wiring issue on your own, as this could void warranties or cause further damage. The remedy provided is a professional inspection and repair arranged by the company. For additional information, you can also visit www.dewalt.com, navigate to "Service and Support," and look for the "Safety Recall Notice" section online.
Step 5: Keep your device secure until resolved. Until you have confirmed with DeWALT that your unit is either not affected or has been repaired, keep the recalled drill stored away from any power sources and out of reach of children. This simple precaution ensures that no one accidentally encounters the shock hazard while you are waiting for the remedy to be provided.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you find that your DeWALT drill falls within the scope of this recall, the good news is that you do not need to bear the cost of fixing the issue yourself. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report confirms that DeWALT has committed to a remedy that prioritizes safety and customer peace of mind without financial burden on the consumer. Specifically, the company is offering a free inspection and repair service for all affected units. This means that rather than issuing a direct cash refund or sending you a brand-new replacement drill off the bat, DeWALT’s official channel for resolving this issue involves having the internal wiring of your specific tool examined and corrected by their technical team. While some recalls in different industries might offer immediate replacements, in this case, the path to safety goes through professional maintenance.
To initiate this process, you must contact DeWALT directly. They have established several convenient ways for you to reach their support team, ensuring that regardless of your preference for communication, you can get help quickly. You can call their toll-free number at 855-752-5259. These phone lines are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, which provides ample opportunity during standard business hours to speak with a representative. If you prefer written communication or need to send documentation, you can also email them directly at recall@sbdinc.com. For those who like to manage their product support online, DeWALT has made the information easily accessible on their website. You simply need to visit www.dewalt.com, navigate to the "Service and Support" section, and then select "Safety Recall Notice" to find detailed instructions and forms.
It is important to understand why the remedy is structured as a repair rather than a simple exchange. The hazard identified in this recall involves the drill's internal wiring coming into contact with moving parts, which creates a shock risk. By offering a free inspection and repair, DeWALT is addressing the root cause of the danger—the specific configuration or placement of the wires within that particular batch of drills. This approach ensures that your tool remains functional and reliable while eliminating the electrical hazard. However, before you make contact, please ensure you have your drill’s model number and date code ready, as these are critical for verifying eligibility. Remember, only drills with date codes ranging from 2017-37-FY through 2018-22-FY are affected. If your drill has an "X" marked after the date code, it has already been inspected and is safe to use, meaning no further action or repair is necessary for that specific unit.
If you are unable to locate the date code on your drill, or if the code is completely missing, do not guess. The recall instructions explicitly state that consumers in this situation should still contact the company. DeWALT’s support team is equipped to help you identify whether your tool is part of the affected batch even without a visible code. This step is crucial because using a drill with an unknown status could potentially leave you exposed to the shock hazard if it happens to be within the affected production window. Therefore, reaching out to DeWALT via phone, email, or their online service portal is the definitive way to confirm your eligibility and schedule your free repair appointment.
Please keep in mind that while this recall addresses a serious safety concern, no incidents have been reported to date. This suggests that you are acting proactively by addressing the issue now. By following these steps to schedule your free inspection and repair, you are ensuring that your power tool remains safe for future use. Do not delay in making contact, as the sooner you resolve this, the sooner you can return to your projects with confidence, knowing that the potential shock hazard has been professionally eliminated by the manufacturer.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall notice arrives in the mail or appears on your screen, it is natural to feel annoyed rather than alarmed. These tools are often expensive investments, and stopping work to deal with paperwork feels like an unnecessary interruption. However, ignoring the DeWALT recall for the DWD110 and DWD112 drills is not merely a matter of administrative inconvenience; it is a direct invitation to physical danger. The core issue here is not that the drill will break down or stop working effectively. It is that the internal wiring has become compromised in a way that can transfer electricity from the power source directly to your body.
To understand why this hazard is so critical, we have to look at what happens when you are holding the drill. These are corded tools, meaning they draw significant power from your home or job site outlet to drive the motor. Under normal conditions, that electricity stays safely contained within insulated wires and plastic housing. But in these specific recalled units, the wiring can come into contact with internal moving parts. When those metal components vibrate, shift, or spin during use, they can wear through the insulation of the wires. Once that barrier is breached, the live electrical current has a new path to travel: through the metal casing of the drill and into your hands.
The result of this contact is an electric shock. While there have been no reported incidents or injuries associated with these specific drills as of the recall date in February 2019, the potential for harm is severe and immediate. An electric shock from a power tool is not like touching a static-charged doorknob. It can cause your muscles to contract violently, potentially locking you onto the tool rather than letting go. This can lead to secondary injuries, such as falling from a ladder or dropping the heavy drill on your foot. More seriously, depending on the voltage and the path the current takes through your body, it can disrupt your heart rhythm or cause burns at the point of contact.
Furthermore, ignoring the hazard does not make it go away; it often makes it worse. Electrical faults typically progress over time. The initial contact between the wire and the moving part might be minor, but as you continue to use the drill, friction and heat will accelerate the wear. A shock that might have been a startling jolt in the first week of use could become a dangerous, life-threatening current by the second month. Because the defect is internal and not visible from the outside, you cannot "feel" the danger building up until it is too late. Continuing to use a recalled drill with a known shock hazard is essentially playing Russian roulette with your safety, relying on luck rather than engineering to keep you safe.
It is also important to note that this risk does not disappear just because the tool feels cool to the touch or seems to work fine. The danger is latent. The insulation may be intact one moment and compromised the next during a high-torque operation. By choosing not to have the free inspection and repair performed, you are retaining full liability for any accident that occurs. You are betting that the wiring will hold up indefinitely against dynamic internal forces, which is exactly what the manufacturer has determined to be unsafe. The consequence of ignoring this recall is that you remain in constant danger of an unpredictable electrical event every time you pull the trigger.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain DeWALT drills, the underlying principle of electrical safety in power tools applies to every corded device in your home or workshop. The primary lesson here is that wiring integrity is the silent guardian of your safety. Over time, the flexible cables on drills, sanders, and saws undergo constant bending, twisting, and abrasion against rough surfaces like concrete or wood. This physical stress can eventually compromise the insulation, exposing live wires to internal components or external contact. To prevent this class of hazard generally, make it a habit to inspect the power cord before every single use. Look for any cracks, fraying, or exposed copper strands. If you notice even minor wear, stop using the tool immediately. Do not rely on electrical tape as a permanent fix; instead, replace the cord or the entire tool. Proper cable management also helps—always wrap cords loosely around the handle or hook, never tightly coiled in a way that stresses the connection point at the motor housing.
Another critical, often overlooked aspect of electrical safety is the condition of your home’s grounding system. Many modern tools require a three-prong plug to function safely, relying on the ground pin to divert stray electricity away from you if an internal fault occurs. If your workshop or garage still uses older two-prong outlets without proper grounding, consider having an electrician upgrade them. Additionally, always use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets or portable GFCI adapters when operating power tools, especially in damp environments like garages, basements, or outdoors. These devices monitor the current flow and cut power in milliseconds if they detect a leak, providing a vital layer of protection against shock hazards that standard breakers might miss.
Beyond hardware checks, staying informed is your best defense against latent defects. Manufacturers occasionally discover issues after products have left the factory, which is why registering your tools upon purchase is so important. When you register, you provide your contact information directly to the maker, ensuring that if a safety recall is issued, you are notified promptly via email or mail rather than hoping to see it in the news. For tools you do not register, set a calendar reminder every six months to check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website and the manufacturer’s official support pages. Regularly reviewing these sources helps you catch issues early, long before they result in an accident. Finally, always read the user manual for your specific models. Manufacturers often include specific warnings about load limits, ventilation requirements, and compatible accessories that, if ignored, can lead to overheating or mechanical failure that mimics electrical hazards.