Snap-on Hand Tool Warranty

[GTM]

If you buy brand new Snap-on hand tools like sockets and a ratchet do they come with a full unlimited lifetime warranty?

If you buy used Snap-on hand tools like sockets and a ratchet do they have the same warranty as a new socket set?

[Frank Murch]

Great question


From 1924
 to 1930 The guarantee was for one year. (against imperfections or defects in workmanship or materials.)

From 1931 – 1940(?) there was a life time guarantee

During WWII there was no guarantee, in 1944 and 1945 all known tools are market G or E and carry no guarantee.

1946 - Guarantee statement returned

Along the way there are certain exclusions about abuse, using tools incorrectly etc.

[GTM]

I have heard Snap-on hand tools have a lifetime warranty for the original purchaser and the lifetime warranty can be transferred to a person the original owner's hand tools are willed to. They said the lifetime warranty does not transfer to second hand buyers.

A lot of people have said they really like the way the Snap-on tool truck will come to their repair shops and sell tools and provide warranty service without having to take the time to go and get warranty service. It can end up costing a business owner a lot of money if their employees had to drop what they are doing to go and get their broken tools replaced especially when the replacement tool is not in stock. In other words, Snap-on tools can be a big convenience to a repair business when the Snap-on truck delivers the tools to their door.

[Frank Murch]

I think the Snap on truck is an independent owner, A guy who bought a franchise. They say all sorts of things, and I think they have limits of the tools they can swap out. I would be careful about trusting everything you hear. Two dealers may act very differently. Also, tools can be sent back to the company for repair/replacement as well.

If you really have a problem - look in the catalog for the written policy. People telling you about rules that are not in writing have a legal problem. The "rules" are in writing.

I think a lot of people get bamboozled because somebody does not take the time to do the job right - you need to be a little pushy

[GTM]

Thanks for the information Frank. Someday I'll try to get the time to spend with a Snap-on truck salesperson and discuss the warranty issue with him.