The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereCPSC·02037·Announced 2001-11-13

CPSC Recalls Notebook Computer Batteries Due to Fire Risk

CPSC is recalling about 13,000 notebook computer batteries that can overheat, smoke, or catch fire. Consumers should stop using them and call for a free replacement.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a fire hazard with two reported instances of property damage, which aligns with the rubric criterion for 'significant injury/property-damage reports' under the Severe category.

Plain-English summary

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is recalling approximately 13,000 rechargeable batteries for notebook computers. The batteries can overcharge during re-charging, causing them to overheat, smoke, and possibly catch fire.

The recalled batteries were sold individually and with notebook computers under brand names including ARM, ChemUSA, HyperData, Jetta, MPC, PC-Club, Sceptre, Soundx, and Systemax. Specific model numbers are listed in the official recall notice. The batteries were sold nationwide, primarily by mail order and on websites, from October 1999 through October 2001 for between $1,800 and $2,500. The firms have received two reports of minor property damage from the batteries overheating, smoking, or catching fire. No injuries have been reported.

Consumers should stop using these rechargeable batteries immediately and call (877) 475-3425 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT Monday through Friday to order a free replacement battery.

The recalled product

Product
Batteries for Notebook Computers
Category
Consumer Product — Electronics
Hazard
Affected units
13,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · fire

See all →

Similar recalls