I had to replace a Kobalt ratchet three times. JH Williams tools used to make Koblat but now they are Chinese made. You can get some good tools at Menard's of all places. Husky is made in China as well..
One of the reasons they limit returns is that people buy cheap used sets off ebay and try to return them to Lowe's for a full value replacement.
Tool quality is severely lacking these days and until people demand better quality....tools are turning into a disposable asset.
Thankfully I bought most of my tools a long time ago when quality was much better.