Recall #04-559 · Published June 24, 2004

Verizon Wireless Counterfeit LG-branded TM-510 Cell Phone Batteries

CPSC, Verizon Wireless Announce Recall of Counterfeit Cell Phone Batteries

CPSC published a recall notice for Counterfeit LG-branded TM-510 Cell Phone Batteries from Verizon Wireless on June 24, 2004. CPSC identifies this 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. The official remedy states: Consumers with a LG TM510 cell phone battery having one of the identified manufacturer/date codes and purchased from Verizon Wireless should stop charging the battery immediately and contact Verizon Wireless to receive a replacement battery. Verizon Wireless is sending letters directly to consumers notifying them of this hazard.

Recalled Counterfeit LG-branded TM-510 Cell Phone Battery, showing manufacturer/date code
Recalled Counterfeit LG-branded TM-510 Cell Phone Battery, showing manufacturer/date code
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 manufacturer/date code can be found on the battery, below the words, "Model/Modelo" or "LG." The phone's model number appears on the back side of the phone beneath the battery.

Which products are included?

The recalled batteries can be found in LG TM-510 model cell phones, have a manufacturer/date code of "AEMLLL 02220," AEMMHH 02220," "AEMLLL 02X25H" or "AEMMHH 02725" and were distributed by Verizon Wireless. The manufacturer/date code can be found on the battery, below the words, "Model/Modelo" or "LG." The phone's model number appears on the back side of the phone beneath the battery. The cell phones, which come in black or silver, may have the Verizon Wireless name on the front.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

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.

Incidents and injuries

Verizon Wireless has received 18 reports of incidents involving counterfeit batteries, including injuries to users and property damage.

Official remedy

Consumers with a LG TM510 cell phone battery having one of the identified manufacturer/date codes and purchased from Verizon Wireless should stop charging the battery immediately and contact Verizon Wireless to receive a replacement battery. Verizon Wireless is sending letters directly to consumers notifying them of this hazard.

Product and sales details

Brand
Verizon Wireless
Manufacturer
Verizon Wireless of Bedminster, N.J.
Product type
Battery chargers
Recall number
04-559
Units
About 50,000
Sold at / sales period
The phones were sold at Verizon Wireless retail locations nationwide and on Verizon Wireless's Web site, from April 2001 through December 2002, for between $150 and $200. The batteries were sold from August 2002 to November 2003 for between $40 and $60.

Counterfeit LG-branded TM-510 Cell Phone Batteries

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

Recall contact information

Call Verizon Wireless at (800) 922-0204 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

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

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