Drake Toilet

The Toto Drake toilet offers mixed repairability. Most common issues can be fixed, but with several caveats around parts and design.

• •Parts availability: Multiple users report proprietary components that are difficult to source locally. One reviewer noted the flapper valve breaks easily and finding the correct replacement was challenging.
• •Design considerations: The toilet uses standard tools for basic maintenance but has design limitations. Some users mentioned manufacturing defects like poorly sealed flush valves and excess glaze affecting proper sealing.
• •Warranty support: Covered by a modest one-year limited warranty for materials and workmanship, but only for the original purchaser with proof of purchase required.

Bottom line: You can maintain this toilet with moderate effort, but specialized parts and potential design flaws make some repairs more difficult than standard models. Keep your receipt and consider stocking spare parts proactively.

The Drake earns respect where it counts—legendary flush power and years of reliable service—but stumbles on quality control and parts availability.

• •Rock-solid performance: Users report this toilet eliminates clogs, requires only single flushes, and provides years of trouble-free service. One owner called it a wonderful exception to the norm in a world where everything is junk.
• •Self-cleaning design works: The CEFIONTECT glaze and tornado flush keep bowls remarkably clean with minimal scrubbing, reducing wear from harsh chemicals over time.
• •Parts and QC concerns: Multiple reports of flimsy flapper valves that break after just a few flushes, tank leaks from poor manufacturing seals, and replacement parts being difficult to find at local stores.

Bottom line: If you get an intact unit without defects, you've got a toilet that'll outlast most appliances. But the high rate of shipping damage and inconsistent quality control make this more of a gamble than BIFL should be.

TOTO offers a standard one-year limited warranty on the Drake toilet, covering defects in materials and workmanship when properly installed and maintained.

• •Coverage Scope: Warranty covers manufacturing defects only, with numerous exclusions including improper installation, misuse, normal wear, and damage from cleaners.
• •Claim Process: Requires original proof of purchase and either returning the product or providing written notice of defect. TOTO will repair, replace, or adjust at their discretion.
• •User Experience: While warranty terms are clear, some users report difficulty finding replacement parts when needed, and proprietary components like flapper valves have been criticized for durability issues.

Bottom line: A typical manufacturer's warranty that meets industry standard duration but isn't particularly generous. The process is straightforward but the numerous exclusions and reports of proprietary parts issues limit its BIFL credibility.

The TOTO Drake is widely regarded as a top-tier toilet with exceptional performance, but shipping issues significantly impact the buying experience.

• •Performance: Universally praised for its powerful 'Tornado Flush' that eliminates clogs and requires only one flush. Many users call it the best toilet they've ever owned.
• •Durability: Regarded as a true BIFL item once installed, with plumbers frequently recommending it and users reporting years of trouble-free service.
• •Quality Concerns: Extremely high rate of shipping damage with units arriving shattered. Some quality control issues with leaks and hard-to-find proprietary parts.

Bottom line: A community favorite that delivers exceptional performance and reliability once installed, but be prepared for possible shipping headaches and consider purchasing locally rather than online.