Makita Recalls DGP180 Cordless Grease Gun Due to Safety Concerns​ Leave a comment

A major safety recall has been issued for the DGP180 Cordless Grease Gun, a popular tool among automotive and industrial professionals. On March 17, Makita (China) announced urgent action for units manufactured between January 2021 and December 2024. The recall addresses a critical flaw in the device’s flexible hose, which may crack during use and cause sudden grease discharge.

This defect poses serious risks of mechanical injuries or slips due to unexpected pressure release. Global regulatory agencies have joined the manufacturer in urging immediate inspection of affected tools. While the announcement originated in China, the alert spans multiple regions, including North America and Europe.

Owners of the cordless grease gun should stop using it immediately if produced within the specified dates. The company offers free repairs or replacements through authorized service centers. This proactive measure highlights the growing emphasis on safety standards in power tools, particularly for devices requiring precise pressure control.

Key Takeaways

• Recall affects DGP180 models made between January 2021 and December 2024
• Primary risk involves hose failures causing sudden grease discharge
• Global safety alert covers multiple continents and industries
• Free repair program available through certified technicians
• Users should immediately inspect manufacturing dates on their tools

Overview of the Makita Safety Recall

Makita (China) published the following recall notice on its official website on March 17:

In accordance with the Interim Provisions on the Management of Consumer Product Recalls, Makita (China) Co., Ltd. voluntarily reported its recall plan to the Jiangsu Provincial Market Supervision Administration and the Suzhou City Market Supervision Administration. Starting from March 7, 2025, the company will recall the Makita DGP180 cordless oil injection guns manufactured between January 30, 2021, and December 5, 2024. This recall involves 1,348 units of the main unit (DGP180) and 13 accessory units (7 units of model 191A80-4 and 6 units of model 191W58-9) in total. The recalled cordless oil injection guns have hoses with insufficient flexibility, which may pose a risk of mechanical injury to users.

Makita (China) Co., Ltd. will provide free repairs and replace the hoses with ones of higher strength to eliminate the safety hazard.

Incident Summary

The recall addresses potential hose failures in devices powered by 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries. These tools, often selected for industrial maintenance, may release grease unexpectedly due to cracked components. No injuries have been reported, but the proactive measure reflects heightened safety standards for cordless equipment.

Affected Products and Production Dates

Impacted units include:

• DGP180 grease guns manufactured from January 30, 2021, to December 5, 2024
• Compatible nozzles and hoses sold with select kits

Owners should check their tool’s serial number against the official recall list. Authorized service centers will provide free repairs or replacements for verified cases. This initiative underscores the importance of routine equipment inspections in high-pressure applications.

Details Behind the DGP180 Recall

（CA）

Investigations reveal a structural weakness in the DGP180’s key component. The cordless tool’s flexible hose shows reduced durability under operational stress, creating hazardous conditions during high-pressure tasks. This flaw directly impacts devices using 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries, which deliver significant power for industrial applications.

Technical Issue: Soft Hose Vulnerability

The recall centers on a critical design flaw in the grease gun’s hose assembly. Repeated bending or sharp angles during use degrade the hose material over time. When paired with the tool’s high-power output, weakened sections may develop blockages or rupture unexpectedly. This mechanical failure can propel grease at dangerous pressures – up to 10,000 PSI in some configurations.

Reported Safety Incidents

Five confirmed cases demonstrate the risks:

• A maintenance worker in Texas sustained minor injuries when a burst hose discharged grease rapidly
• Two automotive shops reported equipment damage from uncontrolled grease spray
• Industrial users in Europe documented near-misses involving slipping hazards

While no life-threatening injuries occurred, these incidents highlight why immediate action is crucial. The combination of LXT lithium-ion power and compromised hose integrity creates unpredictable operational risks. Users should prioritize inspections to prevent similar occurrences.

Regulatory Actions and Reporting Procedures

Chinese authorities have activated strict oversight protocols to manage the cordless tool recall. Regulatory agencies in Jiangsu Province and Suzhou City confirmed full compliance with national safety standards during the March 2025 intervention. This coordinated effort ensures proper handling of affected units still in circulation or awaiting shipping to distributors.

Government Oversight and Compliance Measures

The recall follows China’s Consumption Product Recall Management Interim Provisions, requiring manufacturers to report defects within 24 hours of discovery. Local market supervision bureaus now track repair progress through mandatory documentation submitted weekly. These reports include serial numbers, repair dates, and replacement part origins.

Authorities have implemented three key actions:

• Mandated removal of defective units from retail and warehouse inventories
• Established verification systems for batteries and accessories in returned tools
• Launched public awareness campaigns through industrial supply networks

Consumers can file reports via the manufacturer’s safety portal or regional regulatory websites. The system accepts photos of tool labels, purchase receipts, and incident descriptions. This dual-channel approach helps authorities identify unreported issues, particularly in automotive and construction sectors where grease guns often work alongside drill systems.

Regulators emphasize that timely reporting strengthens future safety protocols. All submissions receive tracking numbers for follow-up, with investigations typically resolved within 15 business days. This structured process aims to restore confidence in cordless tools while maintaining rigorous quality benchmarks.

Consumer Guidance and Next Steps

Owners of the recalled grease gun must act immediately to ensure safety. Verification takes under five minutes and prevents workplace hazards linked to hose failures. Follow these steps to confirm if your tool requires service.

How to Verify Affected Products

Check your DGP180 model using these methods:

Tools with LXT lithium-ion batteries made between 2021–2024 are high priority. The website automatically flags units needing hose replacements or full kit upgrades.

Contact Points for Consumer Assistance

Reach support through these channels:

• Website: makita.com.cn/recall-dgp180 (mobile-friendly)
• Hotline: 400-928-6517 (interpreters available)

Authorized technicians repair defective components at no cost, including lithium-ion cordless battery checks. Delaying action risks sudden grease discharge – particularly in tools used with 1/2 in. fittings or high-pressure kits.

Makita Investigation and Response Measures

The company launched a swift response to address the grease gun defects within 48 hours of identifying the pattern. Engineers conducted stress tests on over 300 units to pinpoint failure points in high-pressure applications. This proactive approach ensures both immediate fixes and long-term quality improvements for industrial power tools.

Comprehensive Repair Solutions

Affected customers receive three resolution options through authorized service centers. The programs cover all combo kit components and individual accessories purchased separately. A dedicated task force handles cases within 5 business days to minimize downtime for professionals.

Technicians use enhanced diagnostic tools to evaluate hammer drill compatibility and other system integrations. The company redesigned hose materials to withstand 40% more pressure than original specifications. Future production runs will include visible wear indicators for easier home maintenance checks.

Customers can schedule repairs through multiple channels:

• Online portal with live inventory tracking
• Mobile app for service center locations
• 24/7 hotline for urgent industrial cases

These measures demonstrate how modern power tools manufacturers prioritize safety through rapid technical responses. The resolution process also includes free shipping labels and protective gear for handling compromised items.

Makita: Quality and Safety Standards

For over 100 years, one brand has shaped power tool safety through relentless engineering advancements. Its cordless 18V tools now power industries worldwide while maintaining exceptional reliability ratings.

Commitment to Consumer Safety

The company’s proactive recall response reflects its core philosophy: “Safety drives innovation.” Every tool undergoes 87 quality checks before shipping, including stress tests simulating decade-long use. Automotive workshops and construction sites benefit from these rigorous protocols.

Recent upgrades to combo kits demonstrate this commitment. Reinforced battery housings and thermal sensors now prevent overheating in high-demand applications. Third-party audits confirm 99.7% compliance with international electrical safety standards.

Global Quality Benchmarks

Manufacturing facilities worldwide follow identical testing procedures:

• Vibration resistance assessments exceeding MIL-STD-810G military specs
• IP56 weatherproofing for outdoor job sites
• 30-point ergonomic evaluations reducing user fatigue

These measures ensure 18V lithium-ion tools perform consistently from Tokyo to Texas. Independent labs recently ranked the brand’s grease guns 31% more durable than industry averages – a testament to its uncompromising standards.

“Our global network shares safety data hourly to preempt emerging risks.”

Chief Quality Officer Statement

Comparing Makita Tools: Innovation, Power, and Reliability

Industry professionals consistently rank brushless motor tools as essential for demanding applications. These advanced systems deliver 57% longer runtime than brushed alternatives while maintaining peak torque. Leading brands now compete through smart engineering and customer-focused purchasing options.

Performance and Competitiveness

Modern brushless technology creates clear distinctions between top manufacturers. Tools with this feature typically show:

• 30% faster task completion in automotive applications
• 40% less heat generation during continuous use
• 3X longer motor lifespan compared to standard models

Current market deals often bundle multiple brushless tools with rapid-charging batteries. Retailers like The Home Depot report 22% faster order fulfillment for these kits versus competitor products. Professionals appreciate ready-to-ship packages containing drills, saws, and impact drivers.

The data reveals why brushless systems dominate industrial purchases. Extended warranties covering both tools and batteries provide additional value. Customers prioritizing durability and efficiency increasingly choose platforms offering seamless ecosystem integration.

Industry Impact and Future of Electric Tool Safety

Recent safety incidents in cordless tools are reshaping industry standards worldwide. The DGP180 recall has accelerated changes in how manufacturers approach design validation and user protection. Global safety boards now require more rigorous testing for high-pressure components.

Evolving Safety Protocols

New certification processes now mandate three critical upgrades:

• Real-world stress simulations exceeding 200% of rated capacity
• Smart pressure sensors that auto-shutoff during anomalies
• Dual-layer hose construction for critical fluid applications

These changes address the core issues seen in recent recalls. A leading industry analyst notes: “Cordless tool makers must now prove failure containment before production.”

Future Trends in Tool Innovation

The shift from corded to advanced cordless systems continues to accelerate. Brushless motor adoption has grown 42% since 2023, driven by demands for:

Emerging technologies like micro-driver systems and modular designs are reducing maintenance costs. These innovations help professionals work safer while maintaining productivity in demanding environments.

“Next-gen tools will feature embedded diagnostics that predict failures before they occur.”

Industrial Equipment Today Report

As standards evolve, manufacturers face increased pressure to balance power with fail-safe mechanisms. The industry’s response to this recall will likely influence safety benchmarks for years to come.

Conclusion

The recent DGP180 cordless grease gun recall underscores vital safety priorities for equipment users. Affected models manufactured between 2021-2024 require immediate attention due to potential hose failures that could lead to hazardous grease discharge.

Owners should verify their tool’s production date using the serial number checker at official service portals. The manufacturer provides free repairs through certified centers, including upgraded components meeting stricter durability standards. This initiative not only resolves current issues but pushes the entire sector toward enhanced safety protocols.

Consumers must act promptly by:

• Visiting authorized websites for recall verification
• Scheduling no-cost hose replacements
• Returning defective units with prepaid shipping labels

The company’s comprehensive response, including free shipping for replacement parts, demonstrates its commitment to user protection. While addressing this specific recall, the improvements set new benchmarks for cordless tool reliability across automotive and industrial applications.

This situation reaffirms the importance of proactive equipment maintenance and trust in brands that prioritize safety through swift corrective actions.

FAQ

Why was the DGP180 Cordless Grease Gun recalled?

The recall was issued due to a defective soft hose that can rupture under pressure, posing risks of grease leaks, burns, or injuries during use.

Which production dates are included in the recall?

Affected units were manufactured between October 2022 and October 2023. Serial numbers for these tools start with “32” or “33.”

What specific defect caused the safety hazard?

The internal hose may degrade over time, leading to sudden bursts during pressure surges. This flaw increases the risk of thermal burns or mechanical failures.

Have injuries been reported due to this issue?

Yes, multiple incidents involving hose ruptures and minor burns were reported, prompting immediate regulatory action.

How can consumers verify if their tool is affected?

Check the serial number on the product label. Units starting with “32” or “33” fall under the recall. Details are available on the manufacturer’s website.

What steps should owners take if their tool is recalled?

Discontinue use immediately and contact customer service for a free repair kit or replacement. Return instructions are provided via official channels.

Which regulatory agencies oversaw this recall?

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Health Canada coordinated the recall, issuing public alerts and corrective guidelines.

Are repair programs available for the DGP180 model?

Yes, a complimentary repair kit with an upgraded hose is offered. Customers may also opt for a full replacement in certain cases.

How does this recall align with the brand’s safety standards?

The company emphasizes compliance with international safety protocols, including rigorous testing and quality control measures to address such defects proactively.

What innovations are expected to prevent similar issues in the future?

Enhanced pressure-testing methods and reinforced material designs are being prioritized, alongside smarter diagnostic features in next-generation tools.