Harbor Freight Chainsaw Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Harbor Freight Chainsaw Lawsuit Overview

Over 1 million chainsaws sold by Harbor Freight Tools USA Inc. were recalled in May 2018 due to a dangerous defect causing them to continue running after being turned off. A 2019 class action lawsuit alleged the manufacturer knowingly sold defective chainsaws since at least 2014 and failed to adequately notify consumers about the recall, claims settled in 2021 with payments or replacements offered, though Harbor Freight denied wrongdoing. 

At least 15 reports of chainsaws failing to shut off were documented, resulting in 3 laceration injuries, including one severe case requiring stitches. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued warnings about these hazardous products in 2018.

See more: Harbor Freight Pittsburgh Jack Stand Recall Lawsuit

Latest Harbor Freight Chainsaw Lawsuit Updates

February 4, 2025 – Latest article update reviewing the ongoing litigation against Harbor Freight Tools and the status of compensation claims for affected consumers.

January 2022 – Consumers affected by the defective safety lock-out switch feature in Harbor Freight chainsaws have received compensation as per the settlement approved in January 2022..

November 18, 2021 – The settlement for the defective Harbor Freight chainsaws, which offered up to $50 or replacement products to eligible consumers, was finalized following the court’s approval after the January 10, 2022, hearing.

See also:

• Harbor Freight Jack Stands Recall Lawsuit
• Harbor Freight Roller Seat Litigation

FDA Reports and Statistics

The defective Harbor Freight chainsaws have been linked to:

• 15 documented reports of chainsaws continuing to run after being switched off, per CPSC records
• 3 confirmed laceration injuries, including one severe case requiring stitches, reported to the CPSC
• A 2019 class action lawsuit alleging less than 2% of recalled chainsaws were returned due to poor communication about the recall
• Over 1 million affected units sold across the United States, recalled by the CPSC in May 2018
  These findings stem from a CPSC recall of approximately 1,020,000 Portland, One Stop Gardens, and Chicago Electric chainsaws, with a related lawsuit settled in 2021.

Harbor Freight Chainsaw Injuries & Side Effects

The defective Harbor Freight chainsaws have caused several serious injuries to users when the machines continued to operate after being switched off.

• Lacerations: Severe cuts requiring medical attention and stitches
• Amputations: Risk of finger, hand, or limb amputation due to uncontrolled chainsaw operation
• Puncture Wounds: Deep tissue damage from chainsaw teeth penetration
• Death: Potential fatal injuries from severe uncontrolled chainsaw contact

Do You Qualify for a Harbor Freight Chainsaw Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Harbor Freight chainsaw lawsuit if:

• You purchased a Portland, Chicago Electric, or One Stop Gardens 14-inch electric chainsaw (SKU Nos. 67255 or 61592) between March 11, 2011, and February 6, 2018
• You experienced injuries due to the chainsaw continuing to run after being turned off
• Your injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the defective Harbor Freight chainsaw

Evidence Required for a Harbor Freight Chainsaw Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather:

• Proof of purchase of the affected chainsaw (receipts, credit card statements)
• Medical records documenting your injuries and treatments
• Photos of your injuries and the defective chainsaw
• Any communication with Harbor Freight regarding the product
• Documentation showing you did not participate in the recall

Damages You Can Recover

Successful claimants may recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses for treatment of injuries
• Lost wages due to inability to work
• Pain and suffering resulting from injuries
• Punitive damages against Harbor Freight Tools

Harbor Freight Chainsaw Recall Information

The recall affects two models of 14-inch electric chainsaws sold under the following brand names:

• Portland (Green and Black, ‘Portland’ printed on the blade)
• One Stop Gardens (Green and Black, ‘Portland’ printed on the blade)
• Chicago Electric (Red and Black, ‘Chicago Electric’ on the handle)
  These chainsaws were sold at Harbor Freight stores nationwide and online between May 2009 and February 2018, with SKU numbers 67255 and 61592.

Statute of Limitations for Harbor Freight Chainsaw Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Harbor Freight chainsaw lawsuit varies by state but generally ranges from 1-3 years from the date of injury or from when you discovered the connection between your injury and the defective product. Due to these varying timeframes, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your legal rights are protected.

Related articles:

• Kobalt Chainsaw Recall Claim
• Black and Decker Chainsaw Recall Claim
• Pole Saw Recall Litigation
• DeWalt Chainsaw Recall Claim

FAQs

1. Which Harbor Freight chainsaw models are included in the recall?

The recall covers 14-inch chainsaws sold under the Portland, One Stop Garden, and Chicago Electric brands with SKU Nos. 67255 and 61592, which may fail to power down, creating serious injury risks for users and bystanders.

2. What compensation have previous claimants received?

Consumers who filed claims received cash payments between $10 and $50 or Harbor Freight gift cards. Some claimants opted for free replacement chainsaws, depending on whether they provided proof of purchase or proof of destruction.

3. How long does the claims process typically take?

The claims process varies by individual cases, but most consumers received their compensation within three to six months after filing a valid claim with the required documentation.

4. Do I need to still have my chainsaw to file a claim?

No, but providing proof of purchase or destruction allows claimants to receive the highest possible settlement amount. Without proof, the compensation amount was limited to a $10 cash payment or a $25 gift card during the class action settlement.

5. What should I do if I still own one of the recalled chainsaws?

If you still own one of the recalled chainsaws, stop using it immediately. You can return it to any Harbor Freight store for a replacement or potential compensation.

6. How do I know if my chainsaw is part of the recall?

Check the brand name (Portland, One Stop Garden, or Chicago Electric) and the SKU number (67255 or 61592) on your chainsaw. If it matches and was purchased between March 11, 2011, and February 6, 2018, it is part of the recall.

7. What legal claims were made in the lawsuit against Harbor Freight?

The lawsuit alleged violations of California’s Consumers Legal Remedies Act, California’s Unfair Competition Law, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, as well as claims of fraud, unjust enrichment, and breach of implied warranty.

8. Can I join the class action lawsuit now?

The original class action settlement had a claim deadline of November 24, 2021. However, if you suffered personal injuries from a defective Harbor Freight chainsaw, you may still be able to pursue an individual lawsuit. Contact our attorneys immediately to discuss your options.

9. What if I already participated in the recall?

If you already participated in the recall by returning your chainsaw and receiving compensation, you may not be eligible for additional compensation through a lawsuit. However, if you suffered injuries that weren’t compensated, you should consult with an attorney.

10. What makes Harbor Freight chainsaws dangerous?

The specific defect causes the chainsaws to continue running even after the power switch is turned to the “off” position, creating a severe safety hazard that can lead to serious injuries.

Check out the other defective product liability cases.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries caused by defective Harbor Freight chainsaws. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, so it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our legal services
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation for you

Don’t delay seeking the justice and compensation you deserve for injuries caused by these dangerous products.

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