Craftsman tools made their debut in 1927 and introduced the first electric drill of its kind in 1929, by 1940 Craftsman had grown 1550% since they first began production and it continues to grow today.

Craftsman tools are sold at most hardware stores and Ace Hardware is one of them. Unfortunately, exchanging tools is something you most likely won’t be able to do. 

So, why can’t you exchange Craftsman tools and what do you do if you have faulty products? Keep reading to find out.

Ace Hardware Return Policy for Craftsman Tools

Ace Hardware was founded in 1924 by Richard Hesse. After his retirement in 1973 Ace Hardware became a retailer-owner cooperative. 

Due to this, each store is individually owned and, therefore, does not have to have a standard set of policies and can vary for each store. 

You may be able to find a store that will accept a return of Craftsman tools but they will be difficult to locate and may only accept 30-day returns.

What Do I Need to Return At Ace Hardware?

Most items can be returned to Ace within 30 days of the purchase date.

However, you must feet the following requirements: 

  • The item is still unopened
  • The item is In new condition
  • The item has the original packaging
  • Have all paperwork that came in the package
  • Have the original receipt
  • Have your photo ID

Now, let’s take a look at whether Craftsman’s lifetime warranty plays into why you can return these tools to Ace Hardware.

Craftsman Tools Lifetime Warranty

Craftsman tools claim to have the best warranty on the market. Their website states if your need to exchange an item falls under any of the reasons on their site you can easily return it. 

Tools

Craftsman tools have a lifetime warranty that states that if any of their tools fail to perform for any reason they can be replaced or exchanged. 

They also have a limited lifetime warranty that states if the tool is defective or fails due to workmanship it may be replaced or exchanged.

Tools are classified as:

  • Hand tools
  • Non-electric Automotive Tools
  • Mechanic Tools
  • Electronic Measuring Tools
  • Nonelectric Measuring Tools
  • Tape Measures
  • Torque Wrenches
  • Workwear

Now, let’s see the limited time warranties below.

1-Year, 3-Year, and 10-Year Limited Warranty

Some items fall under these categories and have a limited warranty for a specified amount of time beginning at the date of purchase. 

During this time items under this category can be replaced due to defects in materials or failure to perform due to workmanship. 

Items in this category are:

  • Metal Tool Storage
  • Garage Door Openers
  • Tool Holders
  • Foam Drawer Liners
  • Power Strips
  • Magnetic Accessories
  • Versatrack and Accessories

Now, let’s see the warranty for power tools.

Power Tools

Power tools have either a 1-year or 3-year limited warranty that can be exchanged or replaced due to defects in materials or workmanship.

Power Tools are considered:

  • Compressors
  • Pneumatic nailers or staplers
  • Vacuums
  • Drills
  • Grinders
  • Sanders
  • Saws

Now, let’s see outdoor equipment.

Outdoor Equipment

Most outdoor equipment comes with a 2-year or 3-year limited warranty but a few can come with a limited lifetime warranty so be sure to check your receipts. 

Outdoor equipment is categorized as:

  • Lawn Mowers
  • Chippers
  • Hoses and Accessories
  • Tillers
  • Snow Plows

Now, let’s go through the process of exchange.

Process of Exchanging Craftsman Tools

Ace Hardware does not follow the lifetime warranty on Craftsman tools in their store, therefore, you will not be able to return or exchange tools after 30 days with Ace.

The best way to exchange Craftsman tools is to visit their website with your receipt. Craftsman’s website will walk you through the process of claiming your warranty.

Let’s get into it below.

Online Exchange

By visiting Craftsman’s website you can create an online account and register your products. You will have to verify that the Ace you purchased tools from is an authorized seller.

Because Craftsman can not verify the quality of items sold through outside sellers they are unable to accept returns from unauthorized sellers. 

Now, let’s see other places you can exchange your Craftsman tools.

Other Places to Exchange Craftsman Tools

If online exchanges are not easy for you, you can find a few other places to return or exchange your tools. 

Craftsman has stores and service centers across the United States and these stores are also happy to honor the lifetime warranty of products as long as they were purchased with authorized sellers.

If you have a Sears near you, they will also honor the warranties on Craftsman tools. You can use their website to locate stores that can help you.

 Can You Warranty Old Craftsman Tools at Lowe’s?

Lowe’s promises to honor the Craftsman Lifetime Warranty with any Craftsman tool. 

Maureen Wallace, a spokeswoman for Lowe’s states as long as Lowe’s has the same item that the product can be replaced.

Now you can return your Craftsman tool!

Conclusion

While Ace hardware will most likely not honor Craftsman warranties, other places will honor and help you through the process. Craftsman’s customer service will be able to give you the best advice.