Recall #04-160 · Published June 15, 2004

Associated Electrics Reedy Quasar Pro Battery Charger (charges batteries used to power remote control race cars)

CPSC, Associated Electrics Inc. Announce Recall of Battery Chargers for Radio Control Race Cars

CPSC published a recall notice for Reedy Quasar Pro Battery Charger (charges batteries used to power remote control race cars) from Associated Electrics on June 15, 2004. CPSC identifies this hazard: A defective fuse and program error in the charger can cause the battery packs being charged to overheat and explode, posing a risk of serious injury to consumers. The official remedy states: Consumers should stop using the charger immediately and contact Associated Electrics to receive a free repair.

Recalled Reedy Quasar Pro Battery Charger
Recalled Reedy Quasar Pro Battery Charger
Image: CPSC recall notice

What to check on the product label

Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.

The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.

Additional identifying details

The recalled chargers either have no barcode label on the underside or a barcode label with the numbers "611" or "611A".

Which products are included?

The recalled #611 Quasar Pro Chargers were manufactured from February 2002 through February 2004. The gray charger box has words "Quasar Pro" printed in yellow on the front and shows a display of "QUASAR PRO VERSION 1.0" when first turned on. The recalled chargers either have no barcode label on the underside or a barcode label with the numbers "611" or "611A".

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

A defective fuse and program error in the charger can cause the battery packs being charged to overheat and explode, posing a risk of serious injury to consumers.

Incidents and injuries

Associated Electrics has received three reports of incidents involving exploding battery cells. One consumer sustained a bruised hand, while another received an eye injury from flying debris.

Official remedy

Consumers should stop using the charger immediately and contact Associated Electrics to receive a free repair.

Product and sales details

Brand
Associated Electrics
Manufacturer
Associated Electrics Inc., of Costa Mesa, Calif.
Product type
Battery chargers
Recall number
04-160
Units
4,900
Manufactured in
China
Sold at / sales period
Hobby dealers nationwide, from February 2002 through February 2004, for about $200.

Reedy Quasar Pro Battery Charger (charges batteries used to power remote control race cars)

CPSC product type: Adapter/Power Supply/Charger/Battery

Recall contact information

Call Associated Electrics at (800) 518-7339 between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m., and 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website at www.teamassociated.com

Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.

Related recalls

Selected by shared brand or household-product category.

No. 04-559Home Electronics

CPSC, Verizon Wireless Announce Recall of Counterfeit Cell Phone Batteries

Verizon Wireless

Hazard: Some LG-branded TM-510 batteries may be counterfeit and susceptible to overcharging, especially if used with a non-LG charger. LG Infocomm U.S.A. Inc. states that these are counterfeit LG-branded batteries, which do not contain a safety device in the circuitry, to prevent overcharging. In turn, the counterfeit batteries can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to users.