Cordless drill won't turn on

Symptoms

• Trigger pulled, nothing happens
• No lights, sounds, or vibration
• Battery meter shows charge but tool is dead
• Worked fine last time it was used

Likely causes

• CommonBattery not fully seatedIt can slide in without clicking into place, so it looks attached but makes no contact.
• CommonBattery is dead or too depletedLithium-ion packs can drop to zero suddenly after a warning period of weak performance.
• CommonForward/reverse switch left in the center lock positionMost drills disable the trigger as a safety feature when this switch is centered.
• PossibleCorroded or dirty battery contactsDust and oxidation on the metal contacts block the electrical connection.
• Less commonTrigger switch has failed internallyTrigger switches wear out over years of heavy use and can fail open.

What to do

1. Reseat the battery: pull it fully out, then push it back in until you hear or feel a click.
2. Check the forward/reverse switch above the trigger and move it fully to one side, not the center.
3. Try a second, known-good charged battery if you have one, to rule out the pack.
4. Inspect the battery contacts and the tool's contacts for dirt, dust, or a greenish film, and wipe them with a dry cloth.
5. Charge the battery for at least 30–60 minutes and try again, since some packs need a top-up before they'll power on.
6. If the tool still won't run on a battery you know works in another tool, the trigger switch is the likely culprit.

Tools and parts

• Spare charged battery (if available)
• Dry cloth

When to call a pro

If a battery you've confirmed works elsewhere still won't run the drill, the trigger switch or internal wiring has failed; a repair shop can usually replace it for less than a new tool.

Safety