Craftsman CMCF801D1 V20 1/4-in Impact Driver Kit: problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-18

Summary

A brushed-motor 1/4-in hex impact driver kit (tool model CMCF801, kit SKU CMCF801D1) that ships with one CMCB202 2.0 Ah battery, a CMCB101 charger and a PH #2 bit under a 3-year limited warranty. The reported issues are spec and evidence problems rather than failures: the torque figure differs between the manufacturer’s page and Lowe’s, owners rate the brushed V20 tools below the Brushless RP line, and no independent test of this exact model exists. There are no consumables and no published electricity figure, so a yearly running cost cannot be computed; at $99.00 from Lowe’s and Ace Hardware (2026-10) it is a fair entry-tier buy, especially if you already own V20 batteries.

Common problems and fixes

Brushed motor draws less owner praise than Brushless RP — r/Craftsman owners call the brushed V20 tools “good, serviceable tools” but recommend the Brushless RP models for more power and longevity. If you plan to use the tool hard, step up to a brushless RP model instead. [6][7]
Runtime claim covers one controlled test — the “up to 120 fasteners per charge” figure means 3-in deck screws driven into 4x4 pressure-treated lumber with the CMCB202 battery; real results vary with fastener and material. [1]

Parts and consumables

CMCB101 charger — included in the kit; replacement chargers are sold separately. [1]
PH #2 screwdriving bit — included in the kit. [1]
VERSATRACK clip and accessories — the kit is VERSATRACK compatible, but clips and accessories are sold separately; no bag or belt clip is listed for this kit. [1]

Yearly running cost

No consumables and no subscriptions. The tool is cordless and no wattage figure is published, so electricity cost cannot be estimated. A yearly total cannot be computed; the sources checked publish no prices or replacement intervals.

When it is a good buy

Prices observed at the 2026-10-18 check: $99.00 at Lowe’s and $99.00 at Ace Hardware. [2][3]

At $99–$119 it is reasonable for a DIYer already in the Craftsman V20 battery ecosystem, or who values the 3-year warranty and the retail and parts channel behind it.
At $120–$149 it is weak value for this brushed model, because the brushless siblings and other brands’ brushless DIY drivers become direct competitors in that band.
Above $150 it is poor value for this model; consider brushless alternatives.

Named alternatives: the Craftsman Brushless RP CMCF830 ($119 bare / $168.99 kit, per Pro Tool Reviews) is the better choice when runtime and consistency matter. [4] The brushless CMCF820 (1,700 in-lbs) is the Craftsman option with independent head-to-head test coverage against Ryobi, for a buyer who wants measured data. [5]