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Ten years ago (or longer), I was sanding a piece of wood in my shop with a 5-year-old Rigid orbital sander when that sucker literally exploded in my hand. It sent parts flying 30 feet all over the shop! Scared the crap out of me, but fortunately I only suffered a small cut on my hand. This accident could have been avoided had I registered the tool when I bought it because it had been recalled a couple of years earlier. I called them up, they asked me to mail the damaged tool to them, and they sent me a new one. Kudos to Rigid, seems like they've been backing up their stuff for a long time.
I called them about my tubing cutters spiraling and they didn't understand the word 'drift' and then suggested that I change the cutting wheel after I told them that I had already done that.
Love Ridgid, most of my shop is Ridgid, and I am starting to have to use the LSA on my older tools as well. I have had zero issues or pushback from them on anything. They replaced 3 batteries, replaced a motor in my tablesaw, and fixed a bearing in a sander. I wish Jet and Rikon would give even half the level of customer service considering the price tags on their products.
Sounds to me like Ridgid handled the LSA exactly as described. They took your tool, fixed it, and returned it within 2 weeks, and you didn’t pay a dime. Better than any other tool manufacturer. Also, there are cases where they’ll just send you a new tool. This just doesn’t appear to be one of them.
SOOO glad to hear this. Ridgid's LSA was the reason I bought into their line recently. When I heard that it also meant free batteries for life, I was SOLD on this platform. Better than any other warranty or service agreement on the market and the tools are really well made!! I'm so glad I chose Ridgid and this vid makes me even happier I did.
A friend only recently made me aware of Ridgid's battery warranty. Had I known earlier, I'd have a shop full of their tools. Thanks for another informative video, Matt!
The only time I used the LSA was for the 4512 table saw I purchased in 2014. The bolt for the handle on the miter gauge broke free. Called them up and they sent a new one at no charge. A minor issue no doubt but was impressed how easy the process was.
I have a whole drawer full of DeWalt cordless tools (The older 18V line). I picked up a cheap Ridgid drill/driver a few years ago and really liked it. Since then, I've purchased replacements for almost all of the DeWalt tools, which have now become my backups. I've never had to use the Ridgid LSA, but I'm glad to know it's there. Also, during the holidays, Home Depot likes to do a "Buy battery, get free tool" promo, so I've now got several extra batteries that are all covered by the LSA. Thanks for the vid!
Love my Rigid as well. However, my battery died, I reached out to them, and they told me that my battery wasn't in the LSA. Furthermore, they said I didn't complete the form within 90 days. So make sure you get verification that you submitted. They however, sent me a replacement but will only be good for 90 days. Lesson learned! 👊👊👊👊
Start saving and uploading your receipt with every registration. Never had one not accepted after I did that. Makes it an easy one step and don’t have to check process.
I believe I shared my Rigid experience on another one of your videos last year. I also purchased the power drill combo 5-6 years ago. The drill stopped working and I took it to a local shop where Rigid directed me to. I paid $35.00 up front but and that was refunded once the drill was fixed and returned to me. It took more than 2 weeks to get it fixed but Rigid stood by what they claim with the LSA.
The LSA is awesome. I have had light replaced because they couldn't fix, reciprocating saw fixed and drill rebuilt. I have had for almost 10 years. Well worth it.
Great to hear your tool was covered and serviced by Rigid without any cost . Had similar situation with my Rigid benchtop planer (11 years of use) and they replaced it with brand new generation 4331 model which worked out great as I had 6 sets of replacement blade packs from my 4330 model that could be used in my brand new planer. The only downside was the service centers near me (30 miles) on their website no longer provided service?? Ended up HD which has a tool rental department and they shipped the old planer to some HD service center and learned that didn't have replacement parts so they ended replacing with a BRAND NEW unit. Can't go wrong with Rigids LSA. PS, enjoyed the video with Blacktail Studio
Mornin' Matt. Really enjoy your videos I watch them everyday. I am another Arkansas Woodworker like you. Being on a fixed income I have to save any way I can. I own mostly Ryobi tools with the exception of my Rigid Table saw and Miter Saw. I also started out with a 12v set of Rigid tools that included the Drill, Driver, and Oscillating Multi-tool. I got them used at a Pawn shop in 2013 have used them for over 10 years. Last year the Driver quit working and I contacted Rigid through their website was given an LSA number and told to take the unit to Home Depot down the street. They sent the unit to Rigid and it was repaired for free. Took about 4 weeks to get it back but when it came it had been completely refurbished. I will continue to use my One+ Ryobi system for most of my work since I have over 40 tools that use the same battery. However I buy Rigid tools ever time I find them on sale. I just got the corded palm router from Rigid at Christmas when Home Depot put it on special. I use it every day almost and love it. I am looking to buy a cordless one right now and was leaning towards the Ryobi until I saw your review. Will probably go with the Rigid instead. God Bless, Thank you for your service to our state and keep up the great work. Combat_Devildoc 75th Ranger Reg.
Yes sir Ridgid is a great company I have some off there tools and when some things went wrong either they fixed it or gave me a new one. Love it. Thanks Matt you are doing a great job with all videos 🙏🙏🙏
I recently started buying Ridgid mainly because of the battery coverage, but am glad you posted this vid of your experience, because I’ve been curious about the wording of “lifetime service agreement” as opposed to a Warranty.
As a hobbyist I’m good with it, especially the battery replacement. I’ve had several tools repaired and one was replaced with a factory refurbished unit probably because it was cheaper than fixing it. No complaints here and when I call them they are extremely helpful. That being said I am now adding tools from different brands based on need. For example I picked up a Ryobi 23ga pin nailer because Ridgid doesn’t make one and their ratchets and oscillating polisher. Also grabbed the new a Milwaukee sander and 12v drill/impact kit. I think I have a tool problem lol.
As the son of, and personally being a retired factory maintenance and side job handyman, we've dealt with a lot of burnt up electric things over the years. There are two things needed to get rid of that smell. Sunlight and wind. Set it out on your back porch in the sun on a breezy day. Repeat as needed. It's amazing what sunlight can do. You don't even need to disassemble the unit, but opening it up does help. 2 or 3 days and you'll be amazed at how much better it is.
Cudo’s to documenting the process, for a $100 tool that’s 5 years old, I would have just sent it to the dumpster in my shop and had a great reason to upgrade 😎. I’m terrible at registering tools, I figure if it last 5 years I “got my money’s worth” and there probably is a much better option available by now. Just me, not saying it’s “the” way to do go.
100000% super cool that they went the fixing route!!! Reduces waste, and most importantly... they designed their products to be fixable, not disposable which seems to be the trend with the latest tech.
For cleaning up the terminals on the tool: grab some interdental brushes from the supermarket (they're like a dime a dozen) and your favorite contact cleaner. Spray the cleaner on the brush, push it inside the connector and just go back and forth in there. Repeat until you get a relatively clean surface.
Maybe you are already aware of this but when you buy ridgid tools through 3rd party sellers like amazon for instance, the LSA isnt included. thats probably why the tools are much cheaper on amazon.
I have only good experiences with the Ridgid LSA. I had the exact same router fail in 2022, and the tech told me this model was under "direct ship replacement". So, about 3 weeks from droping it to the repair shop, I got a brand new one in my mailbox! I have almost only Ridgid tools in my cordless arsenal and used their LSA many times. I admit, it can sometimes be long before you get the tools back. But for the price, I have at least two of each tools and a whole bunch of batteries, so I am never left without a usable tool. The new battery replacement service is also a big win. No need to send the old batteries. Just a call and a quick chat with a Ridgid rep for diagnosis/approval and your new battery is in the mail.
My brother is heavily invested in Rigid tools. He says the only bad thing is that if you send a tool back for repair is the approximately 4+ week turnover rate. If you’re in the middle of a job you can’t always wait.
Been using ridgid for the past I'd say 3 years now. I bought myself their jigsaw and was cutting out some risers and runs for a set of steps. Was using it to cleanup what the circular saw couldn't reach and my jigsaw died. Light still came on but no response of the motor. Took it to my repair shop, solder connection blew on it. Repaired it for free within 2 weeks no hassle and haven't had a problem since. And for the price I got that saw on I couldn't complain. $220 deal with the jigsaw, same router in the vid and a sander. I will say as long as they keep expanding they have my business. Kudos to them
Glad they treated you right! My experience was very different. I live 15 minutes away from TTI (the folks that used to make Ridgid products), and I work across the street from them. I bought the R4520 table saw, and loved it. I registered it, and sent a copy of my receipt like I was supposed to. When the blade quit raising and lowering like it was supposed to, I called them. They said since I never received a confirmation of registry from them, my product wasn't covered. I found out who worked on them, and got in touch to see about fixing it. They were going to charge almost as much as I paid for the saw (paid $750, they wanted $675 with parts and labor). So, I bought the Skil jobsite saw you reviewed, and I love it. But, because I did what they required, but they didn't respond that I was good to go, I didn't have their LSA. That sucked! Thanks for all the great videos, Matt.
Same happened to me with my circular saw, so it doesnt have the lifetime agreement now. Also had to prompt them on my next tool twice before it was confirmed as registered.
I have many Ridgid tools and I’ve had some go through the LSA process. A word to the wise: you have to register the replaced tool. Even if it’s the same serial number you have to at least chat with the company and see if it needs to be re-registered. I’ve received replacement batteries and tools. They needed to be registered.
You were done right. Especially considering no other power tool manufacturers (that I can think of)are doing a LSA or equivalent service...and apparently honor it, according to most testimonials I've seen in the subject. I can attest to sending in a Octane battery and had a new one in just about 2 weeks. The fact I'll never have to buy another battery unless I want more is awesome. As far as the service centers...if one is not close by, you can bring it back to your Home Depot and they should ship it out to one, no cost to you.
I bought my first Ridgid 18V power tool in 2003 when the line was first came out. I'm on my 4th set of replacement batteries for that hammer drill kit. I now have over 60 tools and batteries registered for the LSA and haven't had any issues getting service. Up until recently you could go to any Home Depot with a tool rental department and they would ship the tool out for you. Unfortunately I heard that is no longer the case.
I personally own many Ridgid products - several 18v cordless power tools (though I've been slowly converting to Milwaukee), a 12" dual bevel sliding miter saw, and a cabinet style table saw. My very first experience with their LSA and lifetime battery warranty was circa 2010 and was a nightmare. I followed all instructions and registered my impact/drill combo and batteries on their website as well as mailed in all original receipts and UPCs. Weeks later after hearing nothing I contacted their customer service to check on the status of my warranty/LSA registration. They told me they'd never received any of my original receipts or UPCs. Too easy, I said - I scanned all of these and saved them on my computer before mailing just in case. I was then informed that those documents would not be accepted as they weren't "originals." I asked what else could be done to complete my registration and I was told - nothing. I would not be able to register my tools and batteries. Since then I've not even bothered trying to register any of their products and as stated have slowly been phasing them out of my shop (minus the two large saws). Given the fact this was 13ish years ago, its obviously possible they've refined their processes with their customers in mind. Take my negative experience with whatever measure of a grain of salt you will. I still believe they put out a solid performing product at a good price with or without a warranty that requires jumping (back then) through a mess of unnecessary red tape.
The repair process is what stopped me from buying a ridgid tablesaw. The repair place was to far away from my location. So i went with the skil table saw that you actually reviewed. I like it alot and all its features.
I have a lot of the Ridgid tools. I have had some problems with the LSA. The person they said was a service center - was not qualified. Cut some notches out of my Caulk Gun and made it worse. Ridgid eventually refunded my money. But I wish I had the working tool. Plus, some of my batteries are a very old design - so they are no longer made and they won't replace - since a replacement does not exist. Now, I don't use commercial. Everything is personal. You, on the other hand - are Commercial. You have a shop; making stuff for sell; amplify your YT presence etc. So, actually you don't qualify for the LSA and the Personal warranty. Since your use is COMMERCIAL. So very nice that they covered you.
I've personally had good luck with using the LSA (as noted in the video I did that you linked to above THANKS!) on 2 tools and a battery so far in the 5 years I've had them. With that said I used to just drop them with the repair guy 25 miles away (I live rural so everything is 25 miles away) but he is getting out of it due to how RIGID is doing him dirty on payment and other aspects. All the small shops are getting out of LSA service so now my closest two repair centers are 100 miles away in either direction. Driving that twice I'll just buy another tool. I like the tools I have but I'll probably leave the brand at some point, tool bear says dead tool walking and seeing how other brands are expanding line ups and RIGID isn't doing much I'm inclined to believe him. In any case great video, glad it worked out.
Similar situation in SCA with service shops moving away from Rigid due to reimbursement. If you have issues on any Rigid tools under LSA, take it to HD where they have tool rental department and they can assist...
I bought a circular saw and really loved it, mainly just quality for price value. When I needed a router I got a rigid and registered it. Then worm drive saw. Took it out of the box and a friend beat the living tar of it demo-ing my roof. My service place is 45 minutes away but they gave me no trouble at all.
I have at least as many Ridgid tools as you and had nothing but great response from them on any repairs needed. My first like you was a drill and driver set and I am now on my 3rd or 4th set of free batteries. Great service always and I continue to buy more Ridgid tools.
My shop is exclusively Ridgid for the LSA. My oldest tools date back to 2011 and are still working, even the batteries. I did smoke a circular saw that was 4 years old last year, took about a month, sent it out with a self-addressed and paid Fedex and they sent me back an updated brushless saw complete with new blade, brand new, awesome! You do need to register the new replacement just like any new tool you purchase. So in theory, you really only need to buy it once and you will have it forever. I will say the service was a little on the slow side, but I had already purchased a new ridgid worm drive saw, so I didn't really miss it and am thankful to have a brand new one! Another thing, everyone is big on Milwaukee and believe they are better, well, maybe or maybe not. These are both built by the same parent company and if you look at their new tools will find striking similarities. So with Ridgid, you really get a Milwaukee but with the LSA the red tool does not.
Haven't had to use it in about a decade but the reason I jumped all in for ridgid was because the shop I worked out of all had ridgid. Multiple times we had guys take their tools into the service center (ours was literally in a HD lol) and that's what sold me on it. I had one impact go to shit because I used it for things WAYYY bigger than I should have and they fixed it for me. Since I left that job I never had anything else go out (my tools are all for home owner / DIY for friends stuff now) but I have still been all in on Ridgid due to my 2 years at that shop. Never had an issue with the batteries either (I did skip that bluetooth crap and I'm glad I did lol) but from the guys I know that used it they just straight up gave them new batteries lol, can't beat that!
It is a hassle to drive nearly an hour (for me) to my nearest approved repair center.. AND it is a hassle to get tools registered sometimes. BUT over 15 years they have always fixed my issues (including replacing batteries) and have even given me total replacements on a sawzall and hammer drill.
Yes I have some Ridgid tools. My 1/2" hammer drill quick working after about 5 to 6 years. I sent an email to Ridgid tools they told to take to a certified shop, which was about a 1 hour drive. Left it there and called them back in a week, and they told me they could not fix it. But one week later a received a brand new in the box new 1/2" hammer drill. Great service.
It was quite a process to get my miter saw repaired when I had an issue with the base. I live in the Los Angeles area and the closest repair center was 40 miles away. Kind of unbelievable that none of the Home Depots in the area are repair centers either. The repair took 3 months because the shop said Ridgid wouldn't send them the parts until they reached the dollar value for free shipping. I even offered to pay shipping but the shop declined. Makes you wonder what the threshold is because the base is listed at around $125. After a bunch of driving and waiting, I got it back and it works great. Despite this, I still own a couple Ridgid tools and would maybe consider them again, but the LSA situation in my area will give me a reason to think twice about buying them.
If any of The Home Depot’s had a Rental they could have fixed it. The Home Depot stopped repairing tools at the end of January after 11 years. I’ve been in rental for 15 years and did just about all the repairs on Ridgid and Ryobi tools that were brought in. I did send some of the newer stuff to the main repair shop because they were more complex to work on. The thing everyone needs to know is with Ridgid if you just buy batteries not with a tool they only have a 3 year warranty with receipt.
FYI: Ridgid recently changed how they handle LSA claims. Now you mail the item to their corporate repair center and they repair it there. They pay the FedEx shipping both ways and guarantee you to have your tool back within 14 days. I just went thru the process last month and it was slick and easy.
Matt, thank you again for all the great and informative content you provide to the woodworking community! I had no idea i had to register my ridgid products online for the lifetime service agreement. Just found out today that there are seperste departments for powertools and wet/dry vacs because the vacuums automatically come with lifetime warranty, but I was able to register my new drill/driver purchase. Thanks again, and fingers crossed I win this router! Sending good vibes and positivity to you and yours from the bottom of the boot, New Orleans, LA!
They have discretion, though. Also you can complain about the smell and they might send you a new one. Anyhow, my service center is in the Home Depot itself, for example, and depending on how long they think it will take or what is easiest for them, they often will just give you a new tool outright.
I'm part of the Ridgid family as well and love my tools. They've replaced one of my batteries under the LSA after 4 years of use, and I think they are the only company that warranties batteries for life as long as they have been registered. But there is a catch, in order for the battery to be covered, it had to have been purchased along with a tool. Batteries purchased individually aren't eligible.
Actually that changed now. I think they took the feedback that “that’s stupid” and acted on it. Got a battery set over Christmas and it’s fully covered.
I have registered all my Ridgid Tools, but forgot to register my Skil saw with a battery. Been kicking myself ever since but everything still works great and I still love their tools.
I had a MSgt with a 10+ year old rigid table saw. The saw lift assembly wore out. Customer service had him send some pics and then sent him a new table saw. It was much better than his old one. He didn't have to send the old one back and he gave it to another Marine who was going to try and replace the lift assembly himself. Watching him have such a positive experience with them absolutely sold me on them.
My Depot will tell you “just go get one off the shelf and bring it back here for an exchange”. Now that’s standing behind their warranty. I’ve had issues with a vacuum so with the second time returning it I saved the box. The third time I returned it I had the box which makes it easier to return when the box says lifetime warranty in bold letters.
Using rubbing alcohol on a cotton-tipped swab will help clean the contacts. But make sure it is dry before putting the battery back in. On the lovely aroma of burned electrics - since they put a new motor in, you should be able to remove it. Then thoroughly wash the case with hot water and detergent, rinse it, and let it dry completely. The re-install the motor. You may not get ALL of the smell, but you should be able to greatly reduce it.
I went with Rigid for the same reason. I had about $12,000 in tools. When I started having problems with the toold 9 and you will have problems with them) I was told that I did not have any warranty. My account with all registered tools was deleted by an employee. THey told me I had to produce receipts an dthen for limited 1 year coverage. I had the Cast Iron Table saw. The fence broke. Rigid no longer made the saw fence and they told me I was out of luck. I actually had to through the cast iron table saw out last month. The only aftermarket fence that would fit the saw cost more then the saw itself! I have milwakee and dewalt now and although they dont have the life time warranty. I have NEVER had a problem with any of those tools or batteries. I have had problems with EVERY RIgid tool I purchased except for the small router.
I’ve had my planer fixed a couple times using the LSA and it was great. For me the closest repair place was my local Home Depot. Only complaint was it took 5-6 weeks to get it back both times. Because of this, I plan on transitioning to Ridgid power tools when my current tools finally fail.
Besides loving orange, I've been a Ridgid fan and owner for pretty much my whole adult, power tool owning life. I started with a kit that included battery powered drill, driver, one handed saber saw and a light. I've since added the following battery tools: another drill, a 12v multi-tool, 18v multi-tool, several heads for the multi-tools, circular saw, jig saw and a 16 guage nail gun (that's currently on it's way to me); plus electrical tools: smaller circular saw, belt sander, orbital sander, their bigger router, and the spindle sander (also currently on it's way). I'm really glad they took care of you. I believe with bad batteries, the 2 that came with my original kit are not so great, they'll have you take them to Home Depot and basically do an exchange for a new version. I picked up 6 batteries from Woot! that were refurbished as I prefer to buy the bare tools instead, so I haven't bothered to attempt to use the LSA on my older batteries, I simply use the better Woot! sourced, non-LSA eligible ones and I've actually only ever used like 3 of the 6 I got in the pack, but I'm a hobbyist.
My Ridgid palm/trim router is plug in but I’ve noticed exactly the same issue of getting really hot even with precautions and not routing too deep. And yes I’ve had it shut off for no apparent reason, mine is only a year to two old! I’ve also had bits that were tight and should have been secure and were till routing when the bit suddenly drops slightly ruining my round overs or even grooves. I tighten almost too much bc I’ve had my bits drop and it scares me the bit will go flying. I’m bummed because Ridgid is supposed to be a high quality brand much like bosche, etc. yet my router is unpredictable so I’m glad you’re talking about it
Here in Hawaii ridgid have no service depts. So we just take it back to Home depot and they swap it out for a new one. They take the new one out the box and hand it to you along with what ever else you need and they'll put the broken one into the new box and send it back to the manufacturers. Done deal. Then you go back to LSA online and add the new serials and your covered. Love them. I have every tool they made. Had ridgid from back in 2006. Broke 2 tools since. They're die hard. Also Every tool that I've bought with batteries have those batteries on LSA. Ive never had to send one back yet but I heard they send a battery to you from the factory.
Thank you for taking the time to clearly explain the RIDGID Lifetime Service Agreement (LSA) not Warranty. I have 8 RIDGID tools 6 out of 8 have the LSA because 6 were purchased at Home Depot the other 2 were not. As you probably know there are two catches to the LSA first you MUST purchase the RIDGID tool from Home Depot and second you have 30 days to register your tool for the LSA. As an electrician I think its important that you take your router back to the service provider and have the electrical connector on your router replaced because it appears by your close up photo that you have a loose electrical connection where the battery plugs into the router, this will cause high current and burn up another motor. Thank you for your Christian testimony tee shirts with Bible verses and Biblical quotes brother!
Before you follow the LSA route, take the unit to Home Depot returns desk. This isn't we'll documented, but HD will replace the item most likely, no matter the age. I just walked into HD with my broken 5yr old Ridgid orbital sanderwl, no receipt, and was instantly refunded the current retail price, which I used to buy up to the 6" version.
Good to know that Ridgid backed their product for you Matt! Longevity is one of those things that comes from good engineering and confidence that their product design will last under the worst conditions. A good company will back that with quality service with minimum hassle to the customer which insures happy loyal customers and excellent feedback to the engineering team. CS isn't what it used to be and not much gets my britches in a bunch more than bad CS. IMHO they probably should have replaced the contacts and perhaps given you a new battery (lifetime warranty) as a short like that can definitely shorten its life or even kill it, primarily because you have invested thousands into their company over the years. Just a thought on the contacts is to pick up some CRC contact cleaner and devise a small scrubbing device with scotch bright or 4/600g paper...I've used this for decades. As for the smell I've had good luck with baking soda in a pan and the whole thing in a box for a few days...eventually it will dissipate, depending how much plastic or varnish is involved. Not much worse smell than a fried armature. Thanks for all you bring forward for us and great to learn something every day!
Bought a Ridgid octane router on sale at Direct Tools, their factory outlet store, for $48, which included LSA. I originally bought a factory RECON (only 1 yr. warranty) for $36 but while runnng it, it smelled burnt so I returned it and got the new one for $12 more with the LSA. I'm not a wood worker, per se, and you got 5 1/2 years using it quite a bit so it should last me a long time without issues. For what I paid, you'd thought Ridgid would of just sent you a new one over repairing the old one. By the way, I buy the factory RECONs only on tools I figure I'll rarely use, and if there's substantial savings over a new one. $12 wasn't a substantial savings. And on RECONs, I always give them the "smoke" test by running them and smelling. I only had the router that smelled burnt. The other 3 tools, hammer drill & 1/4" impact kit ($100 with 2 max batteries and charger), and 6 1/2" subcompact circular ($48) all "smell" and with the exception of a few scuff marks and scratches on the circ, look relatively new. The scuffs mostly come from factory re-testing and reboxing using generic cardboard boxes with very limited packing material, if any, instead of repacking in original boxes. The outlet store employees said they had to send back tools because of repacking issues that caused damage thru shipping. Unless severely damaged, they're tools meant to be used so a few scuff marks and scratches aren't going to affect the performance, especially if substantial savings can be had.
Hey Matt, the one issue to this is it depends on user and people if they are going to be nice about it or not sometimes too. I have had great experiences with it, and found out that they don't make parts for their lights or other accessory items to say, and ship a replacement (sometimes the updated model) directly to customer with responsibility to dispose of as you wished.
Also forgot to comment if Ridgid did you right, i think they did a good job on backing their service warranty. I have alway said to younger people to buy your new tools through Ridgid because of the lifetime service and battery replacment agreements its a win/win deal if you are going to buy tools especially cordless battery tools.
This video is reassuring as I'm slowly replacing my old tools with all Rigid so I can swap batteries. There's a Rigid service center in my city, so good to know I can get my tools fixed in a reasonable amount of time AND talk to a human being 😊
Years ago I purchased a 1/2" drill with double charger and two batteries. It was the first year Ridged furnished a lifetime warranty on the batteries. Approximately three years later the batteries died and would not hold a charge. I went to home depot with both batteries to be replaced under the lifetime warranty. They advised that the tool and batteries had been discontinued and there was nothing they could do. This put a bad taste for Ridged tools. I am not a Ridged tool hater but I will certainly remember that bad experience I had with Home Depot concerning their so called lifetime warranties. Without being able to buy or replace batteries for the tool rendered it useless therefore it went into the trash can.
Thank you for the information! I have a Rigid random orbital sander that recently quit working and our local Home Depot doesn’t repair the tools in store anymore and my closest repair shop they said is 75 miles away! Very disappointed in Rigid after buying several of their tools. Probably won’t be buying Rigid again!
Thanks for the information. Like many other guys I started buy Ridgid tools because of the Lifetime service. I have a few questions. Why not buy a second Ridgid router, 5 years of heavy use is pretty dam good use, why not buy a new one while the original is being fixed? The other questions are for Ridgid, a lot of the below comments are very negative about repair service. Actions speak louder then words. Most of the complaints are that the tool owners have to wait extended periods of time to get a tool fix. If Ridgid is taking over the repairs. Why are these tool owners still having extended wait times when trying to get a tool repaired?
I have a few RIDGID tools and had them registered when I bought them. I have had 2 batteries go bad. I just brought them back to Home Depot and they handled the warranty for me.
love my ridgid ... had my batteries go weak on one of my earlier drills , took drill,charger, and both batteries up to service center and they checked it all out ! said batteries were bad and said they would have 2 new ones in a week !! wow .. using my shop vac one day and turned it off , wouldnt start again ? called the service line and awesome lady asked me a few questions , asked me if i thought it was the switch and if i could change it myself ?? told her i could so she sent one , 4-5 days later new switch came but didnt help ? called and she answered my call told me to talk 4 pictures of vac and send them back on internet , low and behold new complete vac showed up at my door 2 weeks later !!! love my ridgid ... gotta get the chainsaw now , been waiting a long time for it
Purchased a Ridgid 24v tool kit in 2007.. in 2021 the batteries stopped holding charge. Contacted Ridgid and they said.. "well we don't make the 24v anymore but the 18v works because we make everything compatible.. you need all new batteries and chargers... so we're sending you all replacement batteries and chargers."... um.. what? Great!!
as of February 2024 LSA has converted to a mail in program. i have used this on three tools, a drill and two impact drivers. they replaced the two older tools, and fixed the new brushless impact driver. the only thing i had to pay for was packing materials. had them back in a couple weeks
Not everyone has a Rigid service center close by, and for me, I'd probably end up tossing it and buying new, based on the cost to drive or ship it to the service center would out weigh the cost of repurchasing the tool.... one of the reasons I went w/ the Ryobi tools instead :D
Recently took in 2 half inch impacts and 2 batteries both 4ah and had to have them replace the units and batteries all new batteries were about 4 years old maybe 5 or 6 and they worked but wouldn't charge on the good charger but have a cheap charger and it charged on it. Both impacts smoked out and fried like his router and they were both under 1 year old I'm a mechanic and work in a scrap yard and I bust loose rusted and coroated bolts all day. They either couldn't get parts or couldn't repair them and I got all new equipment so as for how I see it. It's great I love it and make sure to register new equipment when it recieved. Ridgid warranty worth its weight in gold
This is good to know that they treated you right. I was a DeWalt fanboy for a long time and had a lot of their tools. But I’d finally got tired of fixing them every time they broke, and they broke with more and more frequency. The fix was generally an easy one and would only take a few minutes; much faster and cheaper than taking it in for repair. And when I did have to take in my sliding compound miter they fixed it under warranty (yeah) but it broke again about a year later. This time it was going to cost me a bundle, even though it was the same issue so I sold all my DeWalt stuff and transitioned to Rigid primarily for the lifetime battery warranty which I’ve used, and the LSA. Been happy ever since and never looked back. Your review provides some reassurance I made the right decision. Thanks.
I bought a cheap Black and Decker micro sander and it broke after a few uses, I emailed company and all I had to do was provide pictures of tool, address, numbers on tool. Did not have receipt or registered tool for warranty. They ended up sending me 2 brand new ones in case one broke again and no questions asked. Greatest return or exchange/repair I ever had to deal with. Not the most powerful tools but great customer service.
Metabo HPT has a real lifetime warranty and pro level tools Got some Ridgid planer, propane heater, some sanders and stationary tools but mostly Milwaukee and MHPT
You can drop off any tools at Home Depot tool rental. They charge $30 diagnosis fee and refund it after they repair or replace the tool as long as it was registered. I have had several tools repaired over the years. They just replaced a cordless circular saw that I had for 13 years.
LOL… I couldn’t remember my Discord password so I didn’t get 2 additional entries. Going to have to trust if the Lord wants me to have it, He doesn’t need those two! 😉😂😂
It's an "LSA" because "guarantee" is a legal term. A guarantee doesn't require the owner to register the product. Proof of purchase is good enough to prove the purchase date. An "LSA" is an agreement, or a service contract. Both sides have to agree to the terms of the contract (whatever they are).
When my Gen5X hammer drill chuck broke they fixed it but I did have to take it to a HD service location 50 miles away. Fortunately I work in that area but also had to pay a $30 refundable fee that got back when I got my drill back. It was fixed good as new. Also my Gen5X hand vacuum got replaced with the newest model when Ridgid stopped making replacement filters for my old vacuum. That was awesome and this new vacuum is much more powerful!
I believe Milwaukee battries are designed to give out after 5 years ( When the warranty is up) thats why I switched my crews to Ridgid. We do communication towers all around the south. Including Monticello. We recently buit a new T-MOBILE antenna array beside your local Atwoods.
I know its a time thing - BUT, you could try taking this back to the service center and tell them about the corroded battery connector- take one of your tools with you and show them- tell them you are concerned it might catch on fire again or damage your batteries- I bet they will fix it.
I've got the cordless trim routers from Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Kobalt, Bosch 12v, the new brushless Ryobi, and Ridgid. The Ridgid is the most comfortable in the hand, but the DeWalt has the most pleasant depth adjustment. Flex has a trim router coming out this summer, and it will carry the lifetime warranty.
I have had the same experience twice with Ridgid shop vacuum, they replaced the broken one with a brand new unit. These were ten years apart, and the Ridgid shop vacuums outlasted my experience with Craftsman and Shopvac by several years.
Ridgid did me right too.. even let me do my own repair to avoid the wait to let the repair station do it.. had a faulty battery and switch.. they shipped the parts to them but allowed me to fix it myself.. and shipped a new battery too.. Ridgid FTW..
I’m new to woodworking so I personally found this video very informative. I’ll be giving Rigid a much closer look when thinking of buying a new tool. Sign me up for that Rigid router to replace the Harbor Freight I have in the shop now. Thx for doing what you do my friend!
My experience was not good. I bought a sander, my first rigid. It failed at 93 days 3 days after the 90-day retun policy at Home Depot. I then contacted rigid. They told me to take it back to Home Depot and they would tell me what to do. Home Depot informed me that I had to pay 35 dollars to ship it to the closest service center (about 4 hours away). Then, "if" they fixed it, I would have to pay 35 to ship it back. This was a 60 - or 70 dollars sander. They wanted 70 just for shipping. I trashed it, and I have not bout rigid since.
Update on LSA. I bought Ridgid table saw and had a problem with the blade height adjustment at about 4 months (after full refund period). I took it to Home Depot, and they fixed it under the LSA. It happened again and when I took it back to H.D. they found a problem with the motor and since that motor was no longer available, Ridgid sent a new saw. Well, the blade adjustment failed again, and I returned it to H.D. When I got there, I found out that Home Depot has stopped all service on these in January. Ridgid told me that I need to get it to an authorized repair location, but the nearest one to me is 140 miles. If you send it via UPS (my cost), they will fix it and ship it back for free. The cost of shipping was more than the cost of the saw. I drove it to repair location and will have to drive back when fixed.
I have used Ridgid LSA on battery's and one drill. Make sure you reregister the unit after you get the tool back. On the battery's they will not replace them after they have replaced them, even if you try to reregister the battery. Only one time will they replace the battery.
My Ridgid reciprocating saw stopped reciprocating. I use it a lot pruning trees and palms. Took it to a Home Depot with a rental department and got it back in a couple of weeks--good as new. No charge. No problem.
The "rainbowing-affect" is from the heat generated by short-circuit when you "let smoke out" of the motor. You see, all solid state electronic components are built with 'smoke' in them. You don't ever want to 'let the smoke out'.😎 It will stink for a long long time. The burnt smell probably got into the life-long-lubricant the tool was built with. When you get it hot, it'll stink. I had a 20yr old Milwaukee drill that the I burnt the brushes up in. I replaced the brushes, and the trigger switch and she still smells like it's burnt.
I took my R4331 planer in to get it repaired and got it back 2 months later. Went to use it and it was still messed up. Took it back in for repair and now I'm still waiting. They say they are waiting for Rigid to send them the parts. It's been 5 months now that I'm without a planer. Thinking of buying a Dewalt 735 and keep the Rigid as a backup. The LSA is great, but the actual repair and service sucks!
I recently sent in a Dewalt 3/4 HP router to Dewalt in Atlanta (I'm in N.O.) It took over a month and they wanted to charge me to fixing the router that I thought should have still been under warranty. Apparently, there is a 1 yr and a 3 yr warranty and Dewalt said that my repair fell under the 1 yr warranty. I was not happy and the lady said as a 1 time courtesy, she was going to warranty the repair. When I got it back, it still smelled like that burnt up electrical smell. Sounds like you got a heck of a deal. I would have brought it back and asked them to replace the connections too.
It almost looks like plating delamination on your contacts. If this is the case, it'll pose no issues until it starts to actually corrode (plating often provides lower coefficients of friction, but more importantly are corrosion resistant). It shouldn't be an issue, and if it does become an issue, I'm sure the LSA would cover it. Also, fun fact(s). Battery leaks is potassium hydroxide (KOH) and alkaline batteries most often leak when they're completely dead, but still hooked up to the terminals. The cells inside of your battery pack is a Lithium ion 18650 and I don't believe that there's any potassium hydroxide. I think that the electrolyte is lithium hexafluorophosphate with a bunch of other crap mixed in and the "flouro" part of that means that it is PFAS related and potentially carcinogenic. AKA, be careful when you run into any issues with leaky batteries.
Hi Matt. I've got a better story about Ridgid service. I had a 24 volt drill and impact driver and the batteries died. Service center said Ridgid doesn't make them now. I received a 5 tool combo set(18 volt) to replace the 24 volt tools. A day or two later I also got another impact driver, all were brushless tools. Ridgid really honors their tool warranty in my opinion. Thanks Matt for all your information
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Ten years ago (or longer), I was sanding a piece of wood in my shop with a 5-year-old Rigid orbital sander when that sucker literally exploded in my hand. It sent parts flying 30 feet all over the shop! Scared the crap out of me, but fortunately I only suffered a small cut on my hand. This accident could have been avoided had I registered the tool when I bought it because it had been recalled a couple of years earlier. I called them up, they asked me to mail the damaged tool to them, and they sent me a new one. Kudos to Rigid, seems like they've been backing up their stuff for a long time.
They didnt send you a new hand so its good the old one was repairable.
I called them about my tubing cutters spiraling and they didn't understand the word 'drift' and then suggested that I change the cutting wheel after I told them that I had already done that.
Love Ridgid, most of my shop is Ridgid, and I am starting to have to use the LSA on my older tools as well. I have had zero issues or pushback from them on anything. They replaced 3 batteries, replaced a motor in my tablesaw, and fixed a bearing in a sander. I wish Jet and Rikon would give even half the level of customer service considering the price tags on their products.
Sounds to me like Ridgid handled the LSA exactly as described. They took your tool, fixed it, and returned it within 2 weeks, and you didn’t pay a dime. Better than any other tool manufacturer. Also, there are cases where they’ll just send you a new tool. This just doesn’t appear to be one of them.
Milwaukee’s is outrageously good too! It just obviously isn’t lifetime.
SOOO glad to hear this. Ridgid's LSA was the reason I bought into their line recently. When I heard that it also meant free batteries for life, I was SOLD on this platform. Better than any other warranty or service agreement on the market and the tools are really well made!! I'm so glad I chose Ridgid and this vid makes me even happier I did.
A friend only recently made me aware of Ridgid's battery warranty. Had I known earlier, I'd have a shop full of their tools. Thanks for another informative video, Matt!
Do you not get battery warranty?
The only time I used the LSA was for the 4512 table saw I purchased in 2014. The bolt for the handle on the miter gauge broke free. Called them up and they sent a new one at no charge. A minor issue no doubt but was impressed how easy the process was.
I have a whole drawer full of DeWalt cordless tools (The older 18V line). I picked up a cheap Ridgid drill/driver a few years ago and really liked it. Since then, I've purchased replacements for almost all of the DeWalt tools, which have now become my backups. I've never had to use the Ridgid LSA, but I'm glad to know it's there. Also, during the holidays, Home Depot likes to do a "Buy battery, get free tool" promo, so I've now got several extra batteries that are all covered by the LSA. Thanks for the vid!
Love my Rigid as well. However, my battery died, I reached out to them, and they told me that my battery wasn't in the LSA. Furthermore, they said I didn't complete the form within 90 days. So make sure you get verification that you submitted. They however, sent me a replacement but will only be good for 90 days. Lesson learned! 👊👊👊👊
Start saving and uploading your receipt with every registration. Never had one not accepted after I did that. Makes it an easy one step and don’t have to check process.
I believe I shared my Rigid experience on another one of your videos last year. I also purchased the power drill combo 5-6 years ago. The drill stopped working and I took it to a local shop where Rigid directed me to. I paid $35.00 up front but and that was refunded once the drill was fixed and returned to me. It took more than 2 weeks to get it fixed but Rigid stood by what they claim with the LSA.
The LSA is awesome. I have had light replaced because they couldn't fix, reciprocating saw fixed and drill rebuilt. I have had for almost 10 years. Well worth it.
Great to hear your tool was covered and serviced by Rigid without any cost . Had similar situation with my Rigid benchtop planer (11 years of use) and they replaced it with brand new generation 4331 model which worked out great as I had 6 sets of replacement blade packs from my 4330 model that could be used in my brand new planer. The only downside was the service centers near me (30 miles) on their website no longer provided service?? Ended up HD which has a tool rental department and they shipped the old planer to some HD service center and learned that didn't have replacement parts so they ended replacing with a BRAND NEW unit. Can't go wrong with Rigids LSA. PS, enjoyed the video with Blacktail Studio
Mornin' Matt. Really enjoy your videos I watch them everyday. I am another Arkansas Woodworker like you. Being on a fixed income I have to save any way I can. I own mostly Ryobi tools with the exception of my Rigid Table saw and Miter Saw. I also started out with a 12v set of Rigid tools that included the Drill, Driver, and Oscillating Multi-tool. I got them used at a Pawn shop in 2013 have used them for over 10 years. Last year the Driver quit working and I contacted Rigid through their website was given an LSA number and told to take the unit to Home Depot down the street. They sent the unit to Rigid and it was repaired for free. Took about 4 weeks to get it back but when it came it had been completely refurbished. I will continue to use my One+ Ryobi system for most of my work since I have over 40 tools that use the same battery. However I buy Rigid tools ever time I find them on sale. I just got the corded palm router from Rigid at Christmas when Home Depot put it on special. I use it every day almost and love it. I am looking to buy a cordless one right now and was leaning towards the Ryobi until I saw your review. Will probably go with the Rigid instead. God Bless, Thank you for your service to our state and keep up the great work. Combat_Devildoc 75th Ranger Reg.
Yes sir Ridgid is a great company I have some off there tools and when some things went wrong either they fixed it or gave me a new one. Love it. Thanks Matt you are doing a great job with all videos 🙏🙏🙏
I recently started buying Ridgid mainly because of the battery coverage, but am glad you posted this vid of your experience, because I’ve been curious about the wording of “lifetime service agreement” as opposed to a Warranty.
As a hobbyist I’m good with it, especially the battery replacement. I’ve had several tools repaired and one was replaced with a factory refurbished unit probably because it was cheaper than fixing it. No complaints here and when I call them they are extremely helpful. That being said I am now adding tools from different brands based on need. For example I picked up a Ryobi 23ga pin nailer because Ridgid doesn’t make one and their ratchets and oscillating polisher. Also grabbed the new a Milwaukee sander and 12v drill/impact kit. I think I have a tool problem lol.
As the son of, and personally being a retired factory maintenance and side job handyman, we've dealt with a lot of burnt up electric things over the years. There are two things needed to get rid of that smell. Sunlight and wind. Set it out on your back porch in the sun on a breezy day. Repeat as needed. It's amazing what sunlight can do. You don't even need to disassemble the unit, but opening it up does help. 2 or 3 days and you'll be amazed at how much better it is.
Cudo’s to documenting the process, for a $100 tool that’s 5 years old, I would have just sent it to the dumpster in my shop and had a great reason to upgrade 😎. I’m terrible at registering tools, I figure if it last 5 years I “got my money’s worth” and there probably is a much better option available by now. Just me, not saying it’s “the” way to do go.
Agreed
100000% super cool that they went the fixing route!!!
Reduces waste, and most importantly... they designed their products to be fixable, not disposable which seems to be the trend with the latest tech.
For cleaning up the terminals on the tool: grab some interdental brushes from the supermarket (they're like a dime a dozen) and your favorite contact cleaner.
Spray the cleaner on the brush, push it inside the connector and just go back and forth in there. Repeat until you get a relatively clean surface.
Maybe you are already aware of this but when you buy ridgid tools through 3rd party sellers like amazon for instance, the LSA isnt included. thats probably why the tools are much cheaper on amazon.
I have only good experiences with the Ridgid LSA. I had the exact same router fail in 2022, and the tech told me this model was under "direct ship replacement". So, about 3 weeks from droping it to the repair shop, I got a brand new one in my mailbox!
I have almost only Ridgid tools in my cordless arsenal and used their LSA many times. I admit, it can sometimes be long before you get the tools back. But for the price, I have at least two of each tools and a whole bunch of batteries, so I am never left without a usable tool.
The new battery replacement service is also a big win. No need to send the old batteries. Just a call and a quick chat with a Ridgid rep for diagnosis/approval and your new battery is in the mail.
My brother is heavily invested in Rigid tools. He says the only bad thing is that if you send a tool back for repair is the approximately 4+ week turnover rate. If you’re in the middle of a job you can’t always wait.
Been using ridgid for the past I'd say 3 years now. I bought myself their jigsaw and was cutting out some risers and runs for a set of steps. Was using it to cleanup what the circular saw couldn't reach and my jigsaw died. Light still came on but no response of the motor. Took it to my repair shop, solder connection blew on it. Repaired it for free within 2 weeks no hassle and haven't had a problem since. And for the price I got that saw on I couldn't complain. $220 deal with the jigsaw, same router in the vid and a sander. I will say as long as they keep expanding they have my business. Kudos to them
Glad they treated you right! My experience was very different. I live 15 minutes away from TTI (the folks that used to make Ridgid products), and I work across the street from them. I bought the R4520 table saw, and loved it. I registered it, and sent a copy of my receipt like I was supposed to. When the blade quit raising and lowering like it was supposed to, I called them. They said since I never received a confirmation of registry from them, my product wasn't covered. I found out who worked on them, and got in touch to see about fixing it. They were going to charge almost as much as I paid for the saw (paid $750, they wanted $675 with parts and labor). So, I bought the Skil jobsite saw you reviewed, and I love it.
But, because I did what they required, but they didn't respond that I was good to go, I didn't have their LSA. That sucked!
Thanks for all the great videos, Matt.
I have a similar situation with a bunch of ridgid tools. Very annoying.
Same happened to me with my circular saw, so it doesnt have the lifetime agreement now. Also had to prompt them on my next tool twice before it was confirmed as registered.
I have many Ridgid tools and I’ve had some go through the LSA process. A word to the wise: you have to register the replaced tool. Even if it’s the same serial number you have to at least chat with the company and see if it needs to be re-registered. I’ve received replacement batteries and tools. They needed to be registered.
You were done right. Especially considering no other power tool manufacturers (that I can think of)are doing a LSA or equivalent service...and apparently honor it, according to most testimonials I've seen in the subject. I can attest to sending in a Octane battery and had a new one in just about 2 weeks. The fact I'll never have to buy another battery unless I want more is awesome. As far as the service centers...if one is not close by, you can bring it back to your Home Depot and they should ship it out to one, no cost to you.
I bought my first Ridgid 18V power tool in 2003 when the line was first came out. I'm on my 4th set of replacement batteries for that hammer drill kit. I now have over 60 tools and batteries registered for the LSA and haven't had any issues getting service. Up until recently you could go to any Home Depot with a tool rental department and they would ship the tool out for you. Unfortunately I heard that is no longer the case.
I personally own many Ridgid products - several 18v cordless power tools (though I've been slowly converting to Milwaukee), a 12" dual bevel sliding miter saw, and a cabinet style table saw. My very first experience with their LSA and lifetime battery warranty was circa 2010 and was a nightmare. I followed all instructions and registered my impact/drill combo and batteries on their website as well as mailed in all original receipts and UPCs. Weeks later after hearing nothing I contacted their customer service to check on the status of my warranty/LSA registration. They told me they'd never received any of my original receipts or UPCs. Too easy, I said - I scanned all of these and saved them on my computer before mailing just in case. I was then informed that those documents would not be accepted as they weren't "originals." I asked what else could be done to complete my registration and I was told - nothing. I would not be able to register my tools and batteries. Since then I've not even bothered trying to register any of their products and as stated have slowly been phasing them out of my shop (minus the two large saws). Given the fact this was 13ish years ago, its obviously possible they've refined their processes with their customers in mind. Take my negative experience with whatever measure of a grain of salt you will.
I still believe they put out a solid performing product at a good price with or without a warranty that requires jumping (back then) through a mess of unnecessary red tape.
The repair process is what stopped me from buying a ridgid tablesaw. The repair place was to far away from my location. So i went with the skil table saw that you actually reviewed. I like it alot and all its features.
I have a lot of the Ridgid tools. I have had some problems with the LSA. The person they said was a service center - was not qualified. Cut some notches out of my Caulk Gun and made it worse. Ridgid eventually refunded my money. But I wish I had the working tool. Plus, some of my batteries are a very old design - so they are no longer made and they won't replace - since a replacement does not exist. Now, I don't use commercial. Everything is personal. You, on the other hand - are Commercial. You have a shop; making stuff for sell; amplify your YT presence etc. So, actually you don't qualify for the LSA and the Personal warranty. Since your use is COMMERCIAL. So very nice that they covered you.
I've personally had good luck with using the LSA (as noted in the video I did that you linked to above THANKS!) on 2 tools and a battery so far in the 5 years I've had them. With that said I used to just drop them with the repair guy 25 miles away (I live rural so everything is 25 miles away) but he is getting out of it due to how RIGID is doing him dirty on payment and other aspects. All the small shops are getting out of LSA service so now my closest two repair centers are 100 miles away in either direction. Driving that twice I'll just buy another tool. I like the tools I have but I'll probably leave the brand at some point, tool bear says dead tool walking and seeing how other brands are expanding line ups and RIGID isn't doing much I'm inclined to believe him. In any case great video, glad it worked out.
Similar situation in SCA with service shops moving away from Rigid due to reimbursement. If you have issues on any Rigid tools under LSA, take it to HD where they have tool rental department and they can assist...
I bought a circular saw and really loved it, mainly just quality for price value. When I needed a router I got a rigid and registered it. Then worm drive saw. Took it out of the box and a friend beat the living tar of it demo-ing my roof. My service place is 45 minutes away but they gave me no trouble at all.
I have at least as many Ridgid tools as you and had nothing but great response from them on any repairs needed. My first like you was a drill and driver set and I am now on my 3rd or 4th set of free batteries. Great service always and I continue to buy more Ridgid tools.
My shop is exclusively Ridgid for the LSA. My oldest tools date back to 2011 and are still working, even the batteries. I did smoke a circular saw that was 4 years old last year, took about a month, sent it out with a self-addressed and paid Fedex and they sent me back an updated brushless saw complete with new blade, brand new, awesome! You do need to register the new replacement just like any new tool you purchase. So in theory, you really only need to buy it once and you will have it forever. I will say the service was a little on the slow side, but I had already purchased a new ridgid worm drive saw, so I didn't really miss it and am thankful to have a brand new one! Another thing, everyone is big on Milwaukee and believe they are better, well, maybe or maybe not. These are both built by the same parent company and if you look at their new tools will find striking similarities. So with Ridgid, you really get a Milwaukee but with the LSA the red tool does not.
The LSA is the main reason I buy Ridgid tools. Glad to hear they did you right! Thanks for the update!
Haven't had to use it in about a decade but the reason I jumped all in for ridgid was because the shop I worked out of all had ridgid. Multiple times we had guys take their tools into the service center (ours was literally in a HD lol) and that's what sold me on it. I had one impact go to shit because I used it for things WAYYY bigger than I should have and they fixed it for me. Since I left that job I never had anything else go out (my tools are all for home owner / DIY for friends stuff now) but I have still been all in on Ridgid due to my 2 years at that shop. Never had an issue with the batteries either (I did skip that bluetooth crap and I'm glad I did lol) but from the guys I know that used it they just straight up gave them new batteries lol, can't beat that!
It is a hassle to drive nearly an hour (for me) to my nearest approved repair center.. AND it is a hassle to get tools registered sometimes. BUT over 15 years they have always fixed my issues (including replacing batteries) and have even given me total replacements on a sawzall and hammer drill.
Yes I have some Ridgid tools. My 1/2" hammer drill quick working after about 5 to 6 years. I sent an email to Ridgid tools they told to take to a certified shop, which was about a 1 hour drive. Left it there and called them back in a week, and they told me they could not fix it. But one week later a received a brand new in the box new 1/2" hammer drill. Great service.
It was quite a process to get my miter saw repaired when I had an issue with the base. I live in the Los Angeles area and the closest repair center was 40 miles away. Kind of unbelievable that none of the Home Depots in the area are repair centers either. The repair took 3 months because the shop said Ridgid wouldn't send them the parts until they reached the dollar value for free shipping. I even offered to pay shipping but the shop declined. Makes you wonder what the threshold is because the base is listed at around $125. After a bunch of driving and waiting, I got it back and it works great. Despite this, I still own a couple Ridgid tools and would maybe consider them again, but the LSA situation in my area will give me a reason to think twice about buying them.
If any of The Home Depot’s had a Rental they could have fixed it. The Home Depot stopped repairing tools at the end of January after 11 years. I’ve been in rental for 15 years and did just about all the repairs on Ridgid and Ryobi tools that were brought in. I did send some of the newer stuff to the main repair shop because they were more complex to work on. The thing everyone needs to know is with Ridgid if you just buy batteries not with a tool they only have a 3 year warranty with receipt.
FYI: Ridgid recently changed how they handle LSA claims. Now you mail the item to their corporate repair center and they repair it there. They pay the FedEx shipping both ways and guarantee you to have your tool back within 14 days. I just went thru the process last month and it was slick and easy.
Matt, thank you again for all the great and informative content you provide to the woodworking community! I had no idea i had to register my ridgid products online for the lifetime service agreement. Just found out today that there are seperste departments for powertools and wet/dry vacs because the vacuums automatically come with lifetime warranty, but I was able to register my new drill/driver purchase. Thanks again, and fingers crossed I win this router! Sending good vibes and positivity to you and yours from the bottom of the boot, New Orleans, LA!
They have discretion, though. Also you can complain about the smell and they might send you a new one. Anyhow, my service center is in the Home Depot itself, for example, and depending on how long they think it will take or what is easiest for them, they often will just give you a new tool outright.
I'm part of the Ridgid family as well and love my tools. They've replaced one of my batteries under the LSA after 4 years of use, and I think they are the only company that warranties batteries for life as long as they have been registered. But there is a catch, in order for the battery to be covered, it had to have been purchased along with a tool. Batteries purchased individually aren't eligible.
Actually that changed now. I think they took the feedback that “that’s stupid” and acted on it.
Got a battery set over Christmas and it’s fully covered.
@@mike17032 that's great news. The policy really didn't make sense. Thx
I have had Ridgid tools for a long time. They stand by their tools unlike other manufactures.
I have registered all my Ridgid Tools, but forgot to register my Skil saw with a battery. Been kicking myself ever since but everything still works great and I still love their tools.
I had a MSgt with a 10+ year old rigid table saw. The saw lift assembly wore out. Customer service had him send some pics and then sent him a new table saw. It was much better than his old one. He didn't have to send the old one back and he gave it to another Marine who was going to try and replace the lift assembly himself. Watching him have such a positive experience with them absolutely sold me on them.
My Depot will tell you “just go get one off the shelf and bring it back here for an exchange”.
Now that’s standing behind their warranty.
I’ve had issues with a vacuum so with the second time returning it I saved the box. The third time I returned it I had the box which makes it easier to return when the box says lifetime warranty in bold letters.
Using rubbing alcohol on a cotton-tipped swab will help clean the contacts. But make sure it is dry before putting the battery back in.
On the lovely aroma of burned electrics - since they put a new motor in, you should be able to remove it. Then thoroughly wash the case with hot water and detergent, rinse it, and let it dry completely. The re-install the motor. You may not get ALL of the smell, but you should be able to greatly reduce it.
I went with Rigid for the same reason. I had about $12,000 in tools. When I started having problems with the toold 9 and you will have problems with them) I was told that I did not have any warranty. My account with all registered tools was deleted by an employee. THey told me I had to produce receipts an dthen for limited 1 year coverage. I had the Cast Iron Table saw. The fence broke. Rigid no longer made the saw fence and they told me I was out of luck. I actually had to through the cast iron table saw out last month. The only aftermarket fence that would fit the saw cost more then the saw itself!
I have milwakee and dewalt now and although they dont have the life time warranty. I have NEVER had a problem with any of those tools or batteries. I have had problems with EVERY RIgid tool I purchased except for the small router.
I’ve had my planer fixed a couple times using the LSA and it was great. For me the closest repair place was my local Home Depot. Only complaint was it took 5-6 weeks to get it back both times. Because of this, I plan on transitioning to Ridgid power tools when my current tools finally fail.
Mine 1-6 months I am done with Ridgid, I dealt with Milwaukee 7 days, I dealt with FLEX 4 days from when I called them
I have a planer that I need to take in, but it’s 20 miles out of the way, so it’s still sitting in the garage.
Besides loving orange, I've been a Ridgid fan and owner for pretty much my whole adult, power tool owning life. I started with a kit that included battery powered drill, driver, one handed saber saw and a light. I've since added the following battery tools: another drill, a 12v multi-tool, 18v multi-tool, several heads for the multi-tools, circular saw, jig saw and a 16 guage nail gun (that's currently on it's way to me); plus electrical tools: smaller circular saw, belt sander, orbital sander, their bigger router, and the spindle sander (also currently on it's way).
I'm really glad they took care of you. I believe with bad batteries, the 2 that came with my original kit are not so great, they'll have you take them to Home Depot and basically do an exchange for a new version. I picked up 6 batteries from Woot! that were refurbished as I prefer to buy the bare tools instead, so I haven't bothered to attempt to use the LSA on my older batteries, I simply use the better Woot! sourced, non-LSA eligible ones and I've actually only ever used like 3 of the 6 I got in the pack, but I'm a hobbyist.
My Ridgid palm/trim router is plug in but I’ve noticed exactly the same issue of getting really hot even with precautions and not routing too deep. And yes I’ve had it shut off for no apparent reason, mine is only a year to two old! I’ve also had bits that were tight and should have been secure and were till routing when the bit suddenly drops slightly ruining my round overs or even grooves. I tighten almost too much bc I’ve had my bits drop and it scares me the bit will go flying. I’m bummed because Ridgid is supposed to be a high quality brand much like bosche, etc. yet my router is unpredictable so I’m glad you’re talking about it
Here in Hawaii ridgid have no service depts. So we just take it back to Home depot and they swap it out for a new one. They take the new one out the box and hand it to you along with what ever else you need and they'll put the broken one into the new box and send it back to the manufacturers. Done deal. Then you go back to LSA online and add the new serials and your covered. Love them. I have every tool they made. Had ridgid from back in 2006. Broke 2 tools since. They're die hard. Also Every tool that I've bought with batteries have those batteries on LSA. Ive never had to send one back yet but I heard they send a battery to you from the factory.
Thank you for taking the time to clearly explain the RIDGID Lifetime Service Agreement (LSA) not Warranty. I have 8 RIDGID tools 6 out of 8 have the LSA because 6 were purchased at Home Depot the other 2 were not.
As you probably know there are two catches to the LSA first you MUST purchase the RIDGID tool from Home Depot and second you have 30 days to register your tool for the LSA.
As an electrician I think its important that you take your router back to the service provider and have the electrical connector on your router replaced because it appears by your close up photo that you have a loose electrical connection where the battery plugs into the router, this will cause high current and burn up another motor.
Thank you for your Christian testimony tee shirts with Bible verses and Biblical quotes brother!
Before you follow the LSA route, take the unit to Home Depot returns desk. This isn't we'll documented, but HD will replace the item most likely, no matter the age. I just walked into HD with my broken 5yr old Ridgid orbital sanderwl, no receipt, and was instantly refunded the current retail price, which I used to buy up to the 6" version.
You can try, but at least the stores around here won’t refund power tools without a receipt within 90 days.
731: "I burned up my router"
Also 731: "Stick around and I'll give you a chance to win a router for free"
Me: "hold up"
🤣
Good to know that Ridgid backed their product for you Matt! Longevity is one of those things that comes from good engineering and confidence that their product design will last under the worst conditions. A good company will back that with quality service with minimum hassle to the customer which insures happy loyal customers and excellent feedback to the engineering team. CS isn't what it used to be and not much gets my britches in a bunch more than bad CS. IMHO they probably should have replaced the contacts and perhaps given you a new battery (lifetime warranty) as a short like that can definitely shorten its life or even kill it, primarily because you have invested thousands into their company over the years. Just a thought on the contacts is to pick up some CRC contact cleaner and devise a small scrubbing device with scotch bright or 4/600g paper...I've used this for decades. As for the smell I've had good luck with baking soda in a pan and the whole thing in a box for a few days...eventually it will dissipate, depending how much plastic or varnish is involved. Not much worse smell than a fried armature. Thanks for all you bring forward for us and great to learn something every day!
Bought a Ridgid octane router on sale at Direct Tools, their factory outlet store, for $48, which included LSA. I originally bought a factory RECON (only 1 yr. warranty) for $36 but while runnng it, it smelled burnt so I returned it and got the new one for $12 more with the LSA. I'm not a wood worker, per se, and you got 5 1/2 years using it quite a bit so it should last me a long time without issues. For what I paid, you'd thought Ridgid would of just sent you a new one over repairing the old one.
By the way, I buy the factory RECONs only on tools I figure I'll rarely use, and if there's substantial savings over a new one. $12 wasn't a substantial savings. And on RECONs, I always give them the "smoke" test by running them and smelling. I only had the router that smelled burnt. The other 3 tools, hammer drill & 1/4" impact kit ($100 with 2 max batteries and charger), and 6 1/2" subcompact circular ($48) all "smell" and with the exception of a few scuff marks and scratches on the circ, look relatively new. The scuffs mostly come from factory re-testing and reboxing using generic cardboard boxes with very limited packing material, if any, instead of repacking in original boxes. The outlet store employees said they had to send back tools because of repacking issues that caused damage thru shipping. Unless severely damaged, they're tools meant to be used so a few scuff marks and scratches aren't going to affect the performance, especially if substantial savings can be had.
Hey Matt, the one issue to this is it depends on user and people if they are going to be nice about it or not sometimes too. I have had great experiences with it, and found out that they don't make parts for their lights or other accessory items to say, and ship a replacement (sometimes the updated model) directly to customer with responsibility to dispose of as you wished.
Also forgot to comment if Ridgid did you right, i think they did a good job on backing their service warranty. I have alway said to younger people to buy your new tools through Ridgid because of the lifetime service and battery replacment agreements its a win/win deal if you are going to buy tools especially cordless battery tools.
This video is reassuring as I'm slowly replacing my old tools with all Rigid so I can swap batteries. There's a Rigid service center in my city, so good to know I can get my tools fixed in a reasonable amount of time AND talk to a human being 😊
Years ago I purchased a 1/2" drill with double charger and two batteries. It was the first year Ridged furnished a lifetime warranty on the batteries. Approximately three years later the batteries died and would not hold a charge. I went to home depot with both batteries to be replaced under the lifetime warranty. They advised that the tool and batteries had been discontinued and there was nothing they could do. This put a bad taste for Ridged tools. I am not a Ridged tool hater but I will certainly remember that bad experience I had with Home Depot concerning their so called lifetime warranties. Without being able to buy or replace batteries for the tool rendered it useless therefore it went into the trash can.
Thank you for the information! I have a Rigid random orbital sander that recently quit working and our local Home Depot doesn’t repair the tools in store anymore and my closest repair shop they said is 75 miles away! Very disappointed in Rigid after buying several of their tools. Probably won’t be buying Rigid again!
Thanks for the information. Like many other guys I started buy Ridgid tools because of the Lifetime service. I have a few questions. Why not buy a second Ridgid router, 5 years of heavy use is pretty dam good use, why not buy a new one while the original is being fixed?
The other questions are for Ridgid, a lot of the below comments are very negative about repair service. Actions speak louder then words. Most of the complaints are that the tool owners have to wait extended periods of time to get a tool fix. If Ridgid is taking over the repairs. Why are these tool owners still having extended wait times when trying to get a tool repaired?
I have a few RIDGID tools and had them registered when I bought them. I have had 2 batteries go bad. I just brought them back to Home Depot and they handled the warranty for me.
I don't think the stores handle the battery warranty anymore... you have to call them.
love my ridgid ... had my batteries go weak on one of my earlier drills , took drill,charger, and both batteries up to service center and they checked it all out ! said batteries were bad and said they would have 2 new ones in a week !! wow .. using my shop vac one day and turned it off , wouldnt start again ? called the service line and awesome lady asked me a few questions , asked me if i thought it was the switch and if i could change it myself ?? told her i could so she sent one , 4-5 days later new switch came but didnt help ? called and she answered my call told me to talk 4 pictures of vac and send them back on internet , low and behold new complete vac showed up at my door 2 weeks later !!! love my ridgid ... gotta get the chainsaw now , been waiting a long time for it
Great to see a company honoring their agreements. One less disposable tool.
Purchased a Ridgid 24v tool kit in 2007.. in 2021 the batteries stopped holding charge. Contacted Ridgid and they said.. "well we don't make the 24v anymore but the 18v works because we make everything compatible.. you need all new batteries and chargers... so we're sending you all replacement batteries and chargers."... um.. what? Great!!
as of February 2024 LSA has converted to a mail in program. i have used this on three tools, a drill and two impact drivers. they replaced the two older tools, and fixed the new brushless impact driver. the only thing i had to pay for was packing materials. had them back in a couple weeks
Not everyone has a Rigid service center close by, and for me, I'd probably end up tossing it and buying new, based on the cost to drive or ship it to the service center would out weigh the cost of repurchasing the tool.... one of the reasons I went w/ the Ryobi tools instead :D
Recently took in 2 half inch impacts and 2 batteries both 4ah and had to have them replace the units and batteries all new batteries were about 4 years old maybe 5 or 6 and they worked but wouldn't charge on the good charger but have a cheap charger and it charged on it. Both impacts smoked out and fried like his router and they were both under 1 year old I'm a mechanic and work in a scrap yard and I bust loose rusted and coroated bolts all day. They either couldn't get parts or couldn't repair them and I got all new equipment so as for how I see it. It's great I love it and make sure to register new equipment when it recieved. Ridgid warranty worth its weight in gold
I have some tools that have dropped off of my LSA. There were there, now they aren't. I'm about to start in with Ridgid about that.
This is good to know that they treated you right. I was a DeWalt fanboy for a long time and had a lot of their tools. But I’d finally got tired of fixing them every time they broke, and they broke with more and more frequency. The fix was generally an easy one and would only take a few minutes; much faster and cheaper than taking it in for repair. And when I did have to take in my sliding compound miter they fixed it under warranty (yeah) but it broke again about a year later. This time it was going to cost me a bundle, even though it was the same issue so I sold all my DeWalt stuff and transitioned to Rigid primarily for the lifetime battery warranty which I’ve used, and the LSA. Been happy ever since and never looked back. Your review provides some reassurance I made the right decision. Thanks.
I bought a cheap Black and Decker micro sander and it broke after a few uses, I emailed company and all I had to do was provide pictures of tool, address, numbers on tool. Did not have receipt or registered tool for warranty. They ended up sending me 2 brand new ones in case one broke again and no questions asked. Greatest return or exchange/repair I ever had to deal with. Not the most powerful tools but great customer service.
Metabo HPT has a real lifetime warranty and pro level tools
Got some Ridgid planer, propane heater, some sanders and stationary tools but mostly Milwaukee and MHPT
You can drop off any tools at Home Depot tool rental. They charge $30 diagnosis fee and refund it after they repair or replace the tool as long as it was registered. I have had several tools repaired over the years. They just replaced a cordless circular saw that I had for 13 years.
LOL… I couldn’t remember my Discord password so I didn’t get 2 additional entries. Going to have to trust if the Lord wants me to have it, He doesn’t need those two! 😉😂😂
It's an "LSA" because "guarantee" is a legal term. A guarantee doesn't require the owner to register the product. Proof of purchase is good enough to prove the purchase date. An "LSA" is an agreement, or a service contract. Both sides have to agree to the terms of the contract (whatever they are).
Might be worth trying out some Metabo HPT tools. Most of them have a lifetime warranty, and from what I've seen, they make high quality tools.
Yeah and that full size 1/2" plunge router is an absurd beast and joy to use
When my Gen5X hammer drill chuck broke they fixed it but I did have to take it to a HD service location 50 miles away. Fortunately I work in that area but also had to pay a $30 refundable fee that got back when I got my drill back. It was fixed good as new. Also my Gen5X hand vacuum got replaced with the newest model when Ridgid stopped making replacement filters for my old vacuum. That was awesome and this new vacuum is much more powerful!
I have 32 Ridgid registered. I have 2 batteries, one reciprocating saw replaced. I have 2 tools repaired. So I am good with them.
I believe Milwaukee battries are designed to give out after 5 years ( When the warranty is up) thats why I switched my crews to Ridgid. We do communication towers all around the south. Including Monticello. We recently buit a new T-MOBILE antenna array beside your local Atwoods.
I know its a time thing - BUT, you could try taking this back to the service center and tell them about the corroded battery connector- take one of your tools with you and show them- tell them you are concerned it might catch on fire again or damage your batteries- I bet they will fix it.
I've got the cordless trim routers from Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Kobalt, Bosch 12v, the new brushless Ryobi, and Ridgid. The Ridgid is the most comfortable in the hand, but the DeWalt has the most pleasant depth adjustment. Flex has a trim router coming out this summer, and it will carry the lifetime warranty.
I have had the same experience twice with Ridgid shop vacuum, they replaced the broken one with a brand new unit. These were ten years apart, and the Ridgid shop vacuums outlasted my experience with Craftsman and Shopvac by several years.
Ridgid did me right too.. even let me do my own repair to avoid the wait to let the repair station do it.. had a faulty battery and switch.. they shipped the parts to them but allowed me to fix it myself.. and shipped a new battery too.. Ridgid FTW..
I’m new to woodworking so I personally found this video very informative. I’ll be giving Rigid a much closer look when thinking of buying a new tool.
Sign me up for that Rigid router to replace the Harbor Freight I have in the shop now.
Thx for doing what you do my friend!
Glad to know they honor the service agreement! Giveaway entered! Thanks for the chance and love the channel!
My experience was not good. I bought a sander, my first rigid. It failed at 93 days 3 days after the 90-day retun policy at Home Depot. I then contacted rigid. They told me to take it back to Home Depot and they would tell me what to do. Home Depot informed me that I had to pay 35 dollars to ship it to the closest service center (about 4 hours away). Then, "if" they fixed it, I would have to pay 35 to ship it back. This was a 60 - or 70 dollars sander. They wanted 70 just for shipping. I trashed it, and I have not bout rigid since.
Update on LSA. I bought Ridgid table saw and had a problem with the blade height adjustment at about 4 months (after full refund period). I took it to Home Depot, and they fixed it under the LSA. It happened again and when I took it back to H.D. they found a problem with the motor and since that motor was no longer available, Ridgid sent a new saw. Well, the blade adjustment failed again, and I returned it to H.D. When I got there, I found out that Home Depot has stopped all service on these in January. Ridgid told me that I need to get it to an authorized repair location, but the nearest one to me is 140 miles. If you send it via UPS (my cost), they will fix it and ship it back for free. The cost of shipping was more than the cost of the saw. I drove it to repair location and will have to drive back when fixed.
I have used Ridgid LSA on battery's and one drill. Make sure you reregister the unit after you get the tool back. On the battery's they will not replace them after they have replaced them, even if you try to reregister the battery. Only one time will they replace the battery.
My Ridgid reciprocating saw stopped reciprocating. I use it a lot pruning trees and palms. Took it to a Home Depot with a rental department and got it back in a couple of weeks--good as new. No charge. No problem.
The "rainbowing-affect" is from the heat generated by short-circuit when you "let smoke out" of the motor.
You see, all solid state electronic components are built with 'smoke' in them. You don't ever want to 'let the smoke out'.😎
It will stink for a long long time. The burnt smell probably got into the life-long-lubricant the tool was built with. When you get it hot, it'll stink.
I had a 20yr old Milwaukee drill that the I burnt the brushes up in. I replaced the brushes, and the trigger switch and she still smells like it's burnt.
I took my R4331 planer in to get it repaired and got it back 2 months later. Went to use it and it was still messed up. Took it back in for repair and now I'm still waiting. They say they are waiting for Rigid to send them the parts. It's been 5 months now that I'm without a planer. Thinking of buying a Dewalt 735 and keep the Rigid as a backup. The LSA is great, but the actual repair and service sucks!
I recently sent in a Dewalt 3/4 HP router to Dewalt in Atlanta (I'm in N.O.) It took over a month and they wanted to charge me to fixing the router that I thought should have still been under warranty. Apparently, there is a 1 yr and a 3 yr warranty and Dewalt said that my repair fell under the 1 yr warranty. I was not happy and the lady said as a 1 time courtesy, she was going to warranty the repair. When I got it back, it still smelled like that burnt up electrical smell. Sounds like you got a heck of a deal. I would have brought it back and asked them to replace the connections too.
I have that same table saw. The warentee ended when they stopped making replacement parts. They also refused to upgrade it.
It almost looks like plating delamination on your contacts. If this is the case, it'll pose no issues until it starts to actually corrode (plating often provides lower coefficients of friction, but more importantly are corrosion resistant). It shouldn't be an issue, and if it does become an issue, I'm sure the LSA would cover it.
Also, fun fact(s). Battery leaks is potassium hydroxide (KOH) and alkaline batteries most often leak when they're completely dead, but still hooked up to the terminals. The cells inside of your battery pack is a Lithium ion 18650 and I don't believe that there's any potassium hydroxide. I think that the electrolyte is lithium hexafluorophosphate with a bunch of other crap mixed in and the "flouro" part of that means that it is PFAS related and potentially carcinogenic. AKA, be careful when you run into any issues with leaky batteries.
Hi Matt. I've got a better story about Ridgid service. I had a 24 volt drill and impact driver and the batteries died. Service center said Ridgid doesn't make them now. I received a 5 tool combo set(18 volt) to replace the 24 volt tools. A day or two later I also got another impact driver, all were brushless tools. Ridgid really honors their tool warranty in my opinion. Thanks Matt for all your information
That is amazing, getting a $100 router fixed under warranty after more than five years of use.