My impact wrench started smoking - help!

Hey guys, my trusty old Makita impact wrench just started smoking when I was trying to loosen a seized bolt. It still spins but smells like burnt electrics. Battery is fully charged. Anyone know what's up?

That sounds like the brushes are shot or maybe the armature is fried. Check the brushes first - easy to replace. If it's the armature, you're looking at a new tool. Also, could be the clutch slipping and generating heat. But smoking is never good. Let it cool down and don't use it again until you inspect.

Classic Makita! I've seen that before. Usually it's the switch or the trigger assembly. Did you drop it recently? My uncle's Makita did the same after he dropped it off a ladder. If it's under warranty, send it in. Otherwise, might be time for a new one - get a Milwaukee next time.

I had a similar thing with a Dewalt. Turned out the exhaust was clogged with sawdust and it overheated. Give it a good blow out with compressed air. Check the vents. If that doesn't help, take it apart and look for burnt wires. But honestly, if it's smoking bad, it might be toast. Good luck Wendy!