How to spot fake Makita and DeWalt tools

Start with the seller

The single best protection is buying from an authorised dealer or a well known retailer. On marketplaces, check the seller name, location, ratings and how long they have traded. Be cautious of new sellers with many big brand tools at very low prices, and of listings shipped from abroad without UK model codes.

Both Makita and DeWalt list authorised UK dealers on their websites. If a deal looks too good to be true, check with the brand.

Check the model code

Genuine tools have model codes that match the maker's catalogue, such as DHP483 for a Makita combi drill or DCD800 for a DeWalt hammer drill driver. UK DeWalt codes often end in -GB for UK plug kits, and Makita UK kits use suffixes like RTJ or RFE that describe the battery and case. Search the code on the brand's UK site.

Fakes often use made up codes, mix brand names, or describe tools in ways the brand never does, such as a 48 V or 88 V Makita drill. Neither Makita LXT nor DeWalt XR uses those labels.

• Model code missing or not found on the maker's site.
• Impossible voltage or capacity claims.
• Spelling mistakes on the tool, box or labels.
• Brand logo in the wrong font or colour.
• Many accessories thrown in for a very low price.

Batteries: the biggest risk

Fake or poor copy batteries may contain fewer or lower quality cells than claimed, and may lack the protection electronics that prevent overcharging, over discharge and overheating. That can lead to short life at best, and overheating or fire at worst.

Warning signs include a pack that is much lighter than a genuine one of the same rating, labels that look printed rather than moulded, missing or blurred serial numbers, and capacities far above what the brand sells. A genuine 18 V 5 Ah pack holds 90 Wh; see volts and amp hours explained.

Packaging and finish

Genuine tools come in consistent packaging with clear printing, safety information and often a registration leaflet for extended warranty. Copies may have blurry printing, odd colours, poor plastic mouldings, rough seams and loose fittings. Chucks may wobble and switches feel cheap.

Compare against photos on the maker's site. Details such as vents, labels, LED positions and battery release buttons should match.

Register your tool

Both brands offer extended warranties in the UK when you register a tool within a set period, for example Makita listings state an extra 2 years when registered within 30 days. Registration needs a valid serial number, which also helps confirm the tool is genuine.

Keep your receipt and registration confirmation together, as you will need both for any warranty claim.

If you suspect a fake

Stop using any suspect battery, especially if it gets hot. Contact the seller and the marketplace for a refund, and report the listing. You can also report suspected counterfeit goods to Trading Standards through Citizens Advice. Recycle suspect packs at a battery collection point; do not put them in household waste.

To buy genuine kits, start with our Makita LXT comparison and DeWalt XR comparison.

Note:Never charge a battery you suspect is counterfeit or damaged. Lithium battery fires are hard to put out. If a pack swells, smokes or smells, move it outside onto a non flammable surface if it is safe to do so, and call the fire service if it catches fire.

Frequently asked questions

Are cheap compatible batteries fakes? Not necessarily. Some third party batteries are sold openly as compatible. The risk is quality and safety, and using them may void the tool warranty, as Makita's listings state.

How can I check a DeWalt serial number? Contact DeWalt UK or register the tool on its website. A valid serial number should register normally.

Are tools from abroad fake? Not always. Grey imports can be genuine but may come with foreign chargers and different warranty terms. Check the listing carefully.

What does a too good to be true price look like? A full kit at a fraction of the usual price from a new seller is a strong warning sign.