1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Makita DHP485Z 18V Li-Ion LXT Brushless Combi Drill. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the tool to ensure proper handling and to prevent injury or damage.
The Makita DHP485Z is a versatile cordless combi drill designed for drilling into wood, metal, and masonry, as well as for fastening applications. It features a brushless motor for extended runtime and durability, variable speed control, and an electric brake for enhanced user safety.
2. Safety Information
Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury when operating power tools. Keep this instruction manual for future reference.
General Power Tool Safety Warnings:
- Work Area Safety: Keep the work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
- Electrical Safety: Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
- Personal Safety: Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves.
- Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or remove the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
- Battery Tool Use and Care: Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before inserting the battery pack.
- Service: Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
Important: The use of non-genuine or compatible batteries and chargers with Makita tools will invalidate the Makita guarantee for this tool.
3. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your Makita DHP485Z Combi Drill before operation.

Figure 1: Makita DHP485Z 18V Li-Ion LXT Brushless Combi Drill (Battery and Charger Not Included)
Key Components:
- Keyless Chuck: For quick and easy bit installation and removal.
- Torque Setting Ring: Adjusts the clutch to prevent overtightening screws.
- Mode Selector Ring: Switches between drill, hammer drill, and screw driving modes.
- Speed Selector Switch: Selects between high and low-speed ranges.
- Trigger Switch: Activates the tool and controls variable speed.
- Forward/Reverse Lever: Changes the direction of rotation.
- LED Work Light: Illuminates the work area.
- Battery Terminal: For connecting the 18V LXT slide-type battery (not included).
4. Setup
Battery Installation and Removal:
The Makita DHP485Z requires an 18V Li-Ion LXT slide-type battery (not included).
- To install, align the battery pack with the grooves in the tool's housing and slide it in until it locks into place with a click.
- To remove, press the release button on the battery pack and slide it out of the tool.
Bit Installation and Removal:
The tool features a single sleeve keyless chuck for quick accessory changes.
- To install a bit, hold the rear part of the chuck and turn the sleeve counter-clockwise until the chuck jaws open wide enough for the bit.
- Insert the bit into the chuck as far as it will go.
- Hold the rear part of the chuck and turn the sleeve clockwise to tighten the chuck jaws securely around the bit. Ensure the bit is centered and firmly gripped.
- To remove a bit, reverse the tightening procedure.

Figure 2: Makita DHP485Z in operation, demonstrating bit usage.
5. Operating Instructions
Powering On/Off and Variable Speed:
- To start the tool, pull the trigger switch. The tool speed increases with increased pressure on the trigger.
- To stop the tool, release the trigger switch.
- The electric brake activates upon releasing the trigger, stopping the chuck rotation quickly.
Speed Selection:
The speed selector switch allows you to choose between two mechanical speed ranges:
- Position 1 (Low Speed): For heavy-duty applications, large diameter drilling, or when high torque is required.
- Position 2 (High Speed): For faster drilling in lighter applications.
Always ensure the tool is completely stopped before changing the speed setting to prevent gear damage.
Torque and Mode Selection:
The DHP485Z offers 21 torque settings plus a drill mode and a hammer drill mode.

Figure 3: Torque and Mode Selector Rings.
- Torque Settings (1-21): Rotate the torque setting ring to the desired number. Lower numbers are for small screws or soft materials, higher numbers for larger screws or harder materials. This setting engages the clutch to stop rotation once the set torque is reached, preventing overtightening.
- Drill Mode (Drill Icon): For drilling into wood or metal without clutch activation. The chuck rotates continuously.
- Hammer Drill Mode (Hammer Icon): For drilling into masonry. This mode combines rotation with a hammering action.
Ensure the mode selector ring is securely clicked into the desired position before operation.
LED Work Light:
The built-in LED light illuminates the work area when the trigger is pulled, improving visibility in dimly lit conditions.

Figure 4: LED Work Light in action.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your tool.
Cleaning:
- Always remove the battery pack before performing any cleaning or maintenance.
- Wipe the tool's exterior with a clean, damp cloth. Do not use strong solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Keep the ventilation openings clear of dust and debris to prevent overheating. Use compressed air if necessary.
Storage:
- Store the tool in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children.
- Remove the battery pack from the tool before storing for extended periods.
7. Troubleshooting
Refer to the table below for common issues and their potential solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tool does not start | Battery not charged or improperly installed | Charge battery; ensure battery is fully inserted until it clicks. |
| Reduced power or speed | Battery charge low; incorrect speed setting for task | Recharge battery; select appropriate speed (low speed for high torque). |
| Chuck not holding bit securely | Chuck not tightened sufficiently; worn chuck jaws | Retighten chuck firmly; if issue persists, chuck may need replacement. |
| Overheating | Blocked ventilation slots; continuous heavy use | Clear ventilation slots; allow tool to cool down during prolonged use. |
8. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the Makita DHP485Z Combi Drill.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | DHP485Z |
| Voltage | 18 Volts |
| Power Source | Battery Powered (Li-Ion LXT) |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1900 RPM |
| Maximum Torque | 50 Newton Meters |
| Number of Speeds | 2 |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 13 Millimeters |
| Torque Settings | 21 + Drill Mode |
| Drilling Capacity (Wood) | 38 Millimeters |
| Drilling Capacity (Steel) | 13 Millimeters |
| Drilling Capacity (Masonry) | 13 Millimeters |
| Item Weight | 2.43 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 3.06" x 1.36" x 3.49" |
| Special Feature | Variable Speed, Electric Brake, LED Work Light |
9. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information:
This Makita DHP485Z Combi Drill comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty. An additional 2 years of warranty can be obtained by registering your product within 30 days of purchase. Please note that this guarantee does not apply if non-genuine or non-recommended parts or accessories are fitted to the tool. The use of non-genuine or compatible batteries and chargers with Makita tools will invalidate the Makita guarantee for our tools.
Customer Support:
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or service inquiries, please contact Makita customer support through their official website or authorized service centers. Always provide your product model number (DHP485Z) and proof of purchase when seeking support.







