Milwaukee High Output Battery in the snow

Navigating Milwaukee Battery Warranty Questions

Graphic of Milwaukee Batteries, "More Run-Time, More Power, More Recharges"

Milwaukee's battery warranty policy is not a one-size-fits-all approach, as Milwaukee offers specific warranties for its various battery models. The warranty duration depends on the specific model(s) you have in your toolbox.

You'll always receive some form of warranty whenever you purchase a Milwaukee battery pack, whether as a standalone item or included in a cordless tool kit. However, it's vital to recognize that these warranties  exclusively apply to the original purchaser.  Milwaukee takes a firm stance, warranting the batteries free from material and workmanship defects.

Furthermore, Milwaukee has clarified that attempting  DIY fixes  before seeking warranty service could void the warranty. So, it’s best to let the professionals fix it.

How Long Are Milwaukee Batteries Under Warranty?

It can be challenging to figure out how long your Milwaukee Battery is under warranty as the warranty coverage can span 2 to 3 years, with certain models offering prorated terms. Milwaukee battery warranty duration varies based on the specific battery model(s) you buy. You'll find a comprehensive list of batteries below, including the type of battery, Amperage-hours and corresponding warranty periods.

The following warranty periods apply specifically to the USA and Canada.

Battery Pack Warranty Information
Battery Pack CAT. NO. Type of Battery and
Amp-Hours
WARRANTY PERIOD
(From Date of Purchase)
MXFXC406 MX FUEL XC406 (6 Ah) 2 years
MXFCP203 MX FUEL CP203 (3 Ah) 2 years
MXFXC608 MX FUEL REDLITHIUM FORGE XC (8.0 Ah) 2 years
MXFHD812 MX FUEL REDLITHIUM FORGE HD (12.0 Ah) 2 years
48-11-1812 M18 High Output HD12.0 Ah 3 years
48-11-1828 M18 RedLithium XC (3.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-1840 M18 RedLithium XC (4.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-1850 M18 RedLithium XC (5.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-1861 M18 RedLithium XC (6.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-1865 M18 High Output XC (6.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-1880 M18 High Output XC (8.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-2402 M12 XC High Capacity (3.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-2412 M12 XC High Capacity REDLITHIUM (3.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-2440 M12 XC Extended Capacity (4.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-2460 M12 XC (6.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-2830 M28 RedLithium (3.0 Ah) 3 years
48-11-1820 M18 CP (2.0 Ah) 2 years
48-11-1835 M18 High Output CP (3.0 Ah) 2 years
48-11-2001 M4 (2.0 Ah) 2 years
48-11-2420 M12 CP (2.0 Ah) 2 years
48-11-2430 M12 (3.0 Ah) Compact 2 years
48-11-1828 (Serial number prefix "B41E" and later) M18 RedLithium XC (3.0 Ah) 2 years + 3 years prorated*
48-11-2830 (Serial number prefix "C71", "A71") M28 RedLithium (3.0 Ah) 2 years + 3 years prorated*
48-11-1861 M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE XC (6.0Ah) 3 years
48-11-1850R M18 REDLITHIUM XC (5.0Ah) 3 years
48-11-2131 REDLITHIUM USB (3.0 Ah) 2 years
48-11-2425 M12 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT CP (2.5 Ah) 2 years
48-11-2450 M12 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC (5.0 Ah) 3 years

Decoding Warranty Terms: A Closer Look at What Prorated Means

Graphic of Battery Power Scale

In simple terms, pro-ration works like this: If your battery gives out within the initial 1000 charges or before 2 years under warranty, whichever comes first, you're eligible for a free replacement of the faulty battery. 

Understanding Milwaukee's battery warranty is crucial, and understanding the details is key. The warranty period spans 5 years or 2000 charges, depending on which occurs first from the date of purchase. For specific batteries like Milwaukee M18 48-11-1828 (with the serial number prefix "B41D" and earlier) and V28 48-11-2830 (with the serial number prefix "A71"), the first 1000 charges or 2 years of the warranty, whichever occurs first, are covered through free replacement of defective batteries.

This means that, within the earlier of the first 1000 charges or two (2) years from the date of purchase/first charge, a replacement battery will be provided to the customer free of charge for any defective battery.

Subsequently, the remaining charges up to a total of 2000 or the remainder of the five (5) year period from the date of purchase, whichever occurs first, will be covered pro-rata. Depending on the extent of usage, every customer receives an additional 1000 charges or three (3) years of pro-rata warranty on these battery packs.

According to Milwaukee Tool:

Acceptance of the exclusive repair and replacement remedies described herein is a condition of the contract for the purchase of every Milwaukee product. If you do not agree to this condition, you should not purchase the product. In no event shall Milwaukee be liable for any incidental, special, consequential or punitive damages, or for any costs, attorney fees, expenses, losses or delays alleged to be as a consequence of any damage to, failure of, or defect in any product including, but not limited to, any claims for loss of profits. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other express warranties, written or oral. To the extent permitted by law, Milwaukee disclaims any implied warranties, including without limitation any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular use or purpose; to the extent such disclaimer is not permitted by law, such implied warranties are limited to the duration of the applicable express warranty as described above. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Accepting Milwaukee's repair and replacement remedies is required when purchasing their products. Milwaukee disclaims liability for damages and any implied warranties to the extent law permits. While this warranty grants specific legal rights, additional rights may vary by state.

Warranty Claim Process and Registration Clarification: Milwaukee's Policy

Man in a Milwaukee shirt reading the warranty documentation to a prospective customer

Milwaukee stands by the quality of its products, and if your battery qualifies for warranty service, it will either repair or replace the battery pack. To initiate this process, you must return the battery pack to a Milwaukee factory service center or an authorized service station, with freight prepaid and insured. This will mark the beginning of the warranty journey.

Find a  Milwaukee Service Center here. 

Though it’s still good to  register your Milwaukee products  in case of theft or loss, Milwaukee Tool emphasizes that registering your battery pack isn't necessary to qualify for warranty service.

We recommend saving your receipts if you don’t plan on registering your tools or batteries, as without proof of purchase, Milwaukee relies on the manufacturing date to determine the warranty period. If you have the receipt, this ensures a smooth warranty process and provides the necessary documentation if needed.

Conclusion

Whether bought independently or as part of a cordless kit, every Milwaukee battery pack comes with a limited warranty to the original purchaser and ensures freedom from defects. Recognizing limitations is crucial; accidental damage or DIY fixes may not be covered.

Initiating a warranty claim requires returning the pack to a Milwaukee service center with no mandatory registration; proof of purchase is recommended for a smooth process.

Stay informed and prepared with Milwaukee's warranty procedures for optimal coverage.

Milwaukee Battery Warranty Frequently Asked Questions


Do I need to register my battery for warranty service?

Milwaukee states that registration is not mandatory. However, proof of purchase, especially the manufacturing date, is advisable for warranty claims.


How do I know if my Milwaukee Battery has a Warranty? 

When you buy a Milwaukee product through an authorized distributor, the warranty is automatically in effect, eliminating the need for registration. Retaining your receipt is advisable, as it is a valuable reference for assessing your tool's age and warranty eligibility.


What's the process for resetting my Milwaukee battery?

To reset your Milwaukee battery, remove the battery pack from the tool and place it on the charger. Press the fuel gauge button to confirm if the battery pack has shut down and requires resetting. If the bottom gauge flashes once, the battery needs a reset, which can be accomplished by placing it on its charger.


Which Milwaukee battery offers the longest life?

The REDLITHIUM FORGE is Milwaukee's most powerful, fastest-charging, and longest-lasting battery, ensuring optimal performance over an extended lifespan.


Does a higher Ah rating indicate a more powerful battery?

A higher Ah (ampere-hour) battery rating doesn't necessarily mean more power. It signifies a greater number and density of cells, facilitating the flow of electrical current with reduced resistance. While this design may enhance efficiency, the power output remains relatively consistent.


Is the original purchase receipt necessary for the Milwaukee warranty to be valid?

While a copy of the purchase receipt is preferred for warranty service, it's not mandatory. If you don't have the purchase receipt, Milwaukee can still determine the age of your product using the manufacturing date code. In such cases, the manufacturing date will establish the warranty period when requesting warranty service.