DeWalt DWE4012: problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-17

Summary

The DWE4012 is a 3.9 lb, 7.5 amp, 12,000 RPM corded 4-1/2 in. angle grinder with a tool-free One-Touch guard and quick wheel release, positioned at the low end of DeWalt’s corded grinder range. The recurring complaints are a motor that bogs down under heavy sustained load, no wheel brake so the wheel keeps spinning after the trigger is released, an awkward paddle lock-on and, on some units, gear-case oil leaks. It is a reasonable entry-level grinder at about $90 or less, but the 11-amp DWE402 often sells for the same money with more power.

Common problems and fixes

No wheel brake — the spec sheet lists Brake: No, so the wheel keeps spinning after the trigger is released; wait for it to stop before setting the tool down. [2]
No E-Clutch or kickback brake — the spec sheet lists none, unlike the DWE43115; the low-profile body has no kickback protection. [2]
Awkward paddle lock-on — some owners find the paddle lock-on awkward to hold; no fix reported. [2]
Gear-case oil leaks — some units develop leaks after extended use; the jam-pot gear case is sealed and not user-serviceable, so it goes to a DeWalt service center. [2][8]
Not for all-day heavy use — owners running a grinder all day reach for the more powerful models. [2]

Parts and consumables

One-Touch guard — included; adjusts tool-free. [1][2]
Hex wrench — included; replaces the traditional spanner for wheel changes. [1][2]
Two-position side handle — included and removable. [1][2]
Carbon brushes — accessible through the brush caps on the tool body; replace at a DeWalt service center. [1][8]

Yearly running cost

Not enough data. The grinder has no disposable consumable with a published price; the included wheel, guard, hex wrench and side handle are one-time items, and carbon brushes are a service-center job. No wheel price or replacement interval was reported, so a yearly figure cannot be computed. [1][2]

When it is a good buy

At $87.62 (AIW, October 2026) it is a fair entry-level grinder for DIY and light cutting, but compare it with the 11-amp DWE402, which often sells for similar money. [5]
At $91-100 the case weakens: Home Depot lists $98.98, Global Industrial $99.95 and MSC Direct $100.60 (all observed October 2026), and the DWE402 sits at $89-109 at many retailers. [7][4][3]
Above $100 it is hard to justify unless you specifically want the lighter body. [2]
Alternatives: the DWE402 (11 amp, 11,000 RPM) is the better buy for regular use and lists at $109.95 at Northern Tool; the DWE43115 (13 amp, with E-Clutch) adds kickback protection; a DWE402-2W two-pack is listed at $129.00 by The Power Tool Store. [9][10][6]