Lenovo and IBM Recall ThinkPad Notebook Batteries Due to Fire Hazard

Plain-English summary

Lenovo and IBM are recalling rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in ThinkPad notebook computers. The recall involves approximately 168,500 battery packs sold in the United States between February 2005 and September 2006. These batteries were sold as accessories or as part of ThinkPad T, R, and X series computers. The batteries were manufactured by Sony Energy Devices Corp. of Japan.

The recalled batteries can overheat, posing a fire hazard. Lenovo has received one confirmed report of a battery overheating and causing a fire that damaged a notebook computer. The incident occurred in an airport terminal, resulting in minor property damage, but no injuries were reported.

Consumers should stop using the recalled batteries immediately. They should contact Lenovo at (800) 426-7378 or visit www.lenovo.com/batteryprogram to determine if their battery is affected and to receive a free replacement. Until a replacement arrives, consumers can use their computer by removing the battery and plugging in the AC adapter. Consumers should use only genuine ThinkPad batteries obtained from Lenovo or authorized resellers.

The recalled product

Product

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in ThinkPad notebook computers

Manufacturer

Sony Energy Devices Corp., of Japan

Category

Consumer Product — Notebook Computer Batteries

Hazard

• fire
• overheating

Affected units

168,500

Distribution

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