Dewalt 20v Max XR impact driver stalling under load – battery or tool?

Hey y'all, I've got a Dewalt 20v Max XR impact driver (DCF887) that's been acting up. When I try to drive long screws into hardwood, it starts stalling after a few seconds, like the battery's dying. But the battery is fresh off the charger. Also makes a weird clicking noise when it stalls. Is it the tool or the battery? Any ideas?

I had a similar issue with my Makita. Turned out the battery contacts were dirty. Try cleaning them with a pencil eraser or rubbing alcohol. Also check if the battery has a full charge with a multimeter. Could be a bad cell in the battery pack.

Classic sign of a failing battery. The XR batteries have a protection circuit that cuts power if a cell drops too low under load. But the clicking? Might be the impact mechanism. Could be both. Try a different battery if you have one. If it still stalls, it's the tool. Maybe the brushes are worn out (if it's brushed) or the motor bearings are shot.

I'm a Dewalt fanboy but honestly the DCF887 had some issues. Check the anvil for wear – if it's got play, that'll cause clicking. Also make sure you're not in the wrong mode (speed 1 vs 3). I've seen guys leave it in speed 1 and wonder why it bogs down. If it's still under warranty, send it in. Dewalt's CS is pretty good.

Hold up – before doing anything, verify the battery voltage. You said 'fresh' but a bad charger can fake full charge. Also, if the tool is hot, it might be thermal protection. Let it cool. The clicking noise might be the impact anvil hitting the housing if there's missing grease. DO NOT open the battery pack unless you know what you're doing – that's a fire hazard. I'd borrow a known-good battery to isolate the issue.