Recall #06-145 · Published April 20, 2006

Hewlett-Packard HP Pavilion and Compaq Notebook Computer Batteries

HP Recalls Notebook Computer Batteries Due to Fire Hazard

CPSC published a recall notice for HP Pavilion and Compaq Notebook Computer Batteries from Hewlett-Packard on April 20, 2006. CPSC identifies this hazard: An internal failure can cause the battery to overheat and melt or char the plastic case, posing a burn and fire hazard. The official remedy states: Consumers should stop using the "L3" coded batteries immediately and contact HP to determine if the specific battery is one of the ones being recalled, and if it is, receive a free replacement battery. After removing the recalled battery from their notebook computer, consumers should plug in the AC adapter to power the notebook until a replacement battery arrives.

Picture of Recalled Notebook Computer Battery
Picture of Recalled Notebook Computer Battery
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.

Affected model numbers

Additional identifying details

The recalled batteries are a subset of those manufactured in early January 2005, and will have a bar code label starting with L3.

Which products are included?

The recalled lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are used with various HP and Compaq notebook computers. The recalled batteries are a subset of those manufactured in early January 2005, and will have a bar code label starting with L3. HP and Compaq Notebook Model Series that may contain a recalled battery include: HP Pavilion Family dv1xxx ze2xxx HP Compaq Family nx48xx Compaq Presario Family V2xxx M2xxx The notebook model is located on the display screen bezel or in the labeling on the bottom of the notebook.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

An internal failure can cause the battery to overheat and melt or char the plastic case, posing a burn and fire hazard.

Incidents and injuries

HP has received 20 reports of batteries overheating, including two in the United States. One minor burn injury has been reported. Eleven cases of minor property damage were reported, including one in the United States.

Official remedy

Consumers should stop using the "L3" coded batteries immediately and contact HP to determine if the specific battery is one of the ones being recalled, and if it is, receive a free replacement battery. After removing the recalled battery from their notebook computer, consumers should plug in the AC adapter to power the notebook until a replacement battery arrives.

Product and sales details

Recall number
06-145
Units
About 4,100 (about 15,700 batteries worldwide)
Manufactured in
China
Sold at / sales period
National and regional computer and electronics stores, online stores, and at hp.com and hpshopping.com, from January 2005 through December 2005, for between $1,000 and $3,000. The battery packs also were sold separately for between $100 and $130.
Importer
Hewlett-Packard Company, of Palo Alto, Calif.

HP Pavilion and Compaq Notebook Computer Batteries

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

Recall contact information

For additional information, visit the HP Battery Replacement Program Web Site at www.hp.com/support/BatteryReplacement , or contact HP at (888) 202-4320 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

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

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