As for the really good reputation of Makita-quality, but I am now skeptical.
To expand my own attic I had gained two 6317DWD me a few years ago, one of which is within a short time had a gearbox failure. Warranty handling was not a problem and I originally thought that one can sometimes have bad luck (Monday device?).
Six months ago, took me then a friend asked to help him with his expansion project. Since the NiMH batteries of the two old wrenches come already older, I wanted to first get this replacement, it turned but found that the small and much lighter DF030DWE incl. 2 LiIo batteries is hardly more expensive than two new batteries for my old screwdriver. So I decided to switch. Especially be much lighter weight made me wish for.
After about two-thirds of the project (memory extension with approximately 80sqm) ended up closing with joy. Also the transmission of the new cordless screwdriver has given up the ghost. Nothing turns more, instead a metallic grinding sound similar to the slip clutch. Congestion as the reason is ruled out definitively. The second course was never loaded, and there were only plasterboard panels attached (3.5 mm drywall screws into the battens - so-called "lighter screwdriving".). Drilling I'll do with the old 14,4Volt screwdrivers and for larger screws (eg timber substructure) I use an impact wrench is also available.
Currently the DF030 is the way to Makita, where it is safely repaired without problems. The expansion project I have to finish with my heavy 14.4V NiMH wrenches but first.
Conclusion:
Makita wants to be a professional provider and also requires professional prices. The stability of the device but after my painful experience obviously more than "home improvement level". For professionals, it is in any case unacceptable when getting a second unit must be maintained to avoid work stoppages due Tool defects.
If the quality of the screwdriver should cost not more than half.
Addendum:
Although the device has been reclaimed and returned not directly from the manufacturer, but more than the dealer, I got it back within a week (Makita). An accompanying letter was not there, however, it appears that the entire transmission incl. Slip clutch has been replaced. So at least the service speed again reached professional standards.
Addendum 2:
The original 3 star judging I have now - reduced to 2 star - in June 2013. Another 8 months after the initial warranty repair, in which the device was hardly used, this time, the motor or the electronics with clear smoke development has been adopted. From here quality can really be no more talk. I just hope that this time the warranty repair runs smoothly. But my confidence in the device tends to zero now.
