AK TOOLS Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Makita 18 V battery on a Makita 40 V tool (or a 40 V battery on an 18 V tool)?

No — Makita’s 18 V (LXT) and 40 V (XGT/40V Max) systems are not compatible with each other. The batteries and tools are designed with different voltage requirements, connections, and control electronics. An 18 V battery will not fit or power a 40 V tool and using a higher-voltage battery in a lower-rated tool can cause damage or safety issues. Always use batteries designed for the same voltage system as the tool.

Can I use a Milwaukee 12 V battery on an 18 V tool (and vice versa)?

No — Milwaukee’s 12 V (M12) and 18 V (M18) platforms are separate and not cross-compatible. Each system has its own battery design, electrical contacts, and management system. Attempting to use a battery from one system on another may cause malfunction or damage. Only use M12 batteries with M12 tools and M18 batteries with M18 tools.

What is the difference between DeWalt 18 V and 54 V FlexVolt batteries, and can these batteries work on both 18 V and 54 V tools?

DeWalt’s FlexVolt battery system is designed to automatically switch voltage depending on the tool it’s connected to. When a FlexVolt battery is attached to a standard 18 V (XR) tool, it operates at 18 V, just like a regular battery. When connected to a 54 V FlexVolt tool, the same battery switches to deliver 54 V for higher power output.

This makes FlexVolt batteries backward compatible with 18 V tools, but standard 18 V batteries cannot power 54 V FlexVolt tools. FlexVolt batteries are larger, heavier, and more expensive, but they allow users to bridge between the 18 V and 54 V systems without changing chargers.

Why can’t batteries of different voltages usually be used on the same tool?

Different voltage systems are engineered with distinct electrical and mechanical designs. A tool’s motor, electronics, and connectors are tuned to a specific voltage. Using a mismatched battery can cause poor performance, overheating, or complete failure. Manufacturers design their systems to maintain safety, reliability, and performance — so cross-use is not supported.

Are there any exceptions or adapter solutions I should know about?

Some third-party adapters exist that allow batteries from one system to be used with another. However, these adapters are not officially supported by the tool manufacturers. Using them may reduce performance, disable safety features, or void warranty coverage. It’s recommended to only use original batteries and chargers intended for the same tool system.

What should I check before buying additional batteries or tools?

• The battery voltage matches your tool system (e.g., 12 V, 18 V, 40 V, 54 V).
• The battery’s physical connector and shape are compatible with the tool.
• The charger supports the same voltage and battery type.
• The battery capacity (Ah rating) meets your performance needs.
• Warranty terms remain valid when using that battery with your tool.

If unsure, check your tool and battery model numbers and verify compatibility before use.

Should I commit to one battery voltage platform or switch between systems?

If you already own several tools within one platform, it’s usually best to stay with that system. It helps you reuse batteries and chargers, reduces cost, and ensures compatibility. Switching to a new voltage platform may offer higher power or runtime but requires investment in new batteries and chargers. Choose the platform that best fits your tool requirements, workload, and future upgrade plans.

What happens if I accidentally use the wrong battery?

If a battery from another voltage system is forced into a tool, it may not make proper contact or could damage the tool’s connectors. Always stop immediately if the tool doesn’t start or behaves abnormally. Disconnect the battery and inspect both contacts for damage. Never attempt to modify batteries or tools to force compatibility.

How can I extend my battery lifespan?

• Avoid fully draining lithium-ion batteries; recharge when power is low.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place — avoid heat and direct sunlight.
• Keep batteries clean and free from dust or moisture.
• Use only genuine chargers designed for the battery system.
• Do not leave batteries on the charger for extended periods after full charge.

Proper care ensures maximum runtime and longevity.

How do I know when my battery needs replacing?

• Shortened runtime compared to new condition.
• The tool stops or cuts out under normal load.
• Battery feels excessively hot during use or charging.
• Charger indicator flashes an error or fails to charge.

Replace batteries that show these symptoms with genuine replacements from the same brand and voltage system.

How do I know if my Makita 18V battery is genuine?

⚠️ Signs of a Fake Battery

• On the side of the battery, where The “V” in “18V” does not have a tiny split at the top of the letter or a much larger gap in the newer batches.

• The “18V” - missing micro gap on both side of number 8 

• White or blue heat shrink wrapping may be visible through the battery’s air vents.

• The battery may show charging errors when used with a genuine Makita charger.

• The bottom label may simply say “Made in China”.

• The first two number of the serial number may starts with 22 (not always but the fake battery molding was based on 2022 battery).
• The trademark log (R) on top of the word Makita is printed with a smaller font. or Printed on top of the word Lithium-ion.
• Australian Stock does not come in a plastic casing, it is mostly in brown packaging from combo kits, or  Retail carton boxes, not in clear plastic casing.

✅ Signs of a Genuine Battery

• The 18V printed on the side of battery has a tiny split on top of letter V,

• The original label typically states:

  • “Cell Made in Singapore, Further Processed in China”, or

  • “Cell Made in Japan, Further Processed in China”, or
    

  • "Made in Vietnam"

• Genuine batteries have a serial number engraved or etched into the top, near the yellow terminal connector, which is unique.

• “Cell Made in Japan” is most commonly found on 6.0Ah batteries, occasionally on 4.0Ah, but not on 3.0Ah or 5.0Ah.

• The one Made in Vietnam have the serial number printed (not engraved) along with a QR code. Usually found on 3.0Ah and 5.0Ah batteries only. 

  
  

Can I charge my Genuine Makita 18V battery using a generic charger?

Absolutely not. Using a non-genuine Makita charger can brick the battery or create fire risks. Genuine batteries may enter protection lock mode if exposed to incorrect charging conditions, indicated by alternating LED flashes.

How do I know if my Milwaukee 18V battery is genuine?

For batteries made after 2022, Milwaukee added a feature that shows how many days have passed since the battery was first charged.

1. Hold the button for 5–10 seconds until 4-LEDs flash.
2. The 1st flash sequence, all 4 LEDs lit, then follows by a single led blink 2 times (this can be ignored).
3. The 2nd sequence - 4 LEDs lit, this is where you take the count of the corresponding 4-LEDs (from left to right)
   

Example: 0396 = 396 days since first charge. This can be repeated the next day, and the count will increase by 1 digit.

Can I charge my Genuine Milwaukee batteries using a generic charger?

No. Using non-genuine chargers can damage or brick the battery and pose safety risks.

How do I know if the battery being sold online is genuine?

Avoid suspicious sellers (low feedback, new accounts). Be cautious of:

• Prices significantly below market
• Overly long warranties (3–5+ years)
• Poor-quality packaging or mismatched fonts
• Stock images but fake product delivered

Look for Australian sellers with clear contact details and realistic pricing.