Makita XAG04Z: problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-10

Summary

The Makita XAG04Z is a 5-inch, 8,500 RPM brushless 18V LXT angle grinder sold tool-only at $179. It has no electric brake, no variable-speed dial, no LED work light and no lock-off switch, which owners and reviewers flag as the main compromises. Running costs are grinding and cut-off wheels plus eventual battery replacement; no annual figure was found. It is a fair buy for existing Makita 18V LXT battery owners at $179, and a strong buy below $150.

Common problems and fixes

No electric brake — the wheel coasts to a stop after the trigger is released; r/Makita owners repeatedly recommend paying extra for a braked model. [6] Fix: wait for spin-down or step up to the XAG11Z ($196) or XAG16Z ($259). Not a warranty item.
No variable-speed dial — speed is set by Automatic Speed Change and trigger modulation only. [1] Fix: none; choose a different model if you need speed control. Not a warranty item.
No lock-off switch — the slide switch has lock-on but no separate lock-off button. [1] Fix: none; not a warranty item.
No LED work light — absent on this model. [12] Fix: use an external light. Not a warranty item.
No X-LOCK wheel mount — wheel changes use the spindle lock and lock nut; X-LOCK is on newer grinders such as the XAG25Z and XAG26Z. [3] Fix: none; not a warranty item.

Parts and consumables

Tool-less wheel guard — included; replace if damaged. [1]
Side handle and lock nut wrench — included; replace if lost. [1]

Yearly running cost

Not enough data. The sources list consumables (grinding wheels, cut-off wheels and batteries) but give no replacement interval, no part price and no annual figure. Electricity cost was not estimated in the sources.

When it is a good buy

$179 across Home Depot, Northern Tool, Acme Tools, ToolUp and Platt Electric Supply (October 2026). [4][8][9][7][13]
Way Source has shown a $119.99 cart price against a $169.00 list. [10]
Below $150: strong value for Makita battery owners. [4] (Way Source’s $119.99 cart price fits here.)
$150-190: fair value; weigh whether the electric brake on the XAG11Z ($196) is worth the step up. [4]
Above $200: weak value against newer Makita grinders. [4]
Without Makita 18V batteries the all-in total approaches $300-400; the kit version XAG04T is $474.00 at Home Depot. [4]
Alternatives: XAG11Z at $196 — better when you want an electric brake. [4] XAG16Z at $259 — better when you want an electric brake and more features. [4] XAG25Z and XAG26Z — better when you want X-LOCK wheel mounting. [3]