Recall #06-270 · Published September 28, 2006

Sony Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in ThinkPad notebook computers

Lenovo and IBM Announce Recall of ThinkPad Notebook Computer Batteries Due to Fire Hazard

CPSC published a recall notice for Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in ThinkPad notebook computers from Sony on September 28, 2006. CPSC identifies this hazard: These lithium-ion batteries can cause overheating, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The official remedy states: Consumers should stop using the recalled batteries immediately and contact Lenovo to receive a replacement battery, free of charge. Until a replacement battery arrives, consumers can continue to use their computer by turning off the system, removing the battery, and plugging in the AC adapter and power cord. Consumers should use only genuine ThinkPad batteries obtained from either Lenovo or an authorized reseller.

Recalled Battery
Recalled 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.

Additional identifying details

The recalled batteries have the following part or model numbers, which can be found on the battery label: Part/model number: ASM P/N 92P1072 92P1088 92P1142 92P1170 92P1174 FRU P/N 92P1073 92P1089 92P1141 92P1169 or 93P5028 92P1173 or 93P5030

Which products are included?

The recalled lithium-ion batteries were sold with or sold separately to be used with the following ThinkPad notebook computers: T Series (T43, T43p, T60, T60p); R Series (R51e, R52, R60, R60e); and X Series (X60, X60s). The recalled batteries have the following part or model numbers, which can be found on the battery label: Part/model number: ASM P/N 92P1072 92P1088 92P1142 92P1170 92P1174 FRU P/N 92P1073 92P1089 92P1141 92P1169 or 93P5028 92P1173 or 93P5030

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

These lithium-ion batteries can cause overheating, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents and injuries

Lenovo has received one confirmed report of a battery overheating and causing a fire that damaged the notebook computer. The incident, which occurred within an airport terminal as the user was boarding an airplane, caused enough smoking and sparking that a fire extinguisher was used to put it out. There was minor property damage and no injuries were reported.

Official remedy

Consumers should stop using the recalled batteries immediately and contact Lenovo to receive a replacement battery, free of charge. Until a replacement battery arrives, consumers can continue to use their computer by turning off the system, removing the battery, and plugging in the AC adapter and power cord. Consumers should use only genuine ThinkPad batteries obtained from either Lenovo or an authorized reseller.

Product and sales details

Brand
Sony
Manufacturer
Sony Energy Devices Corp., of Japan
Recall number
06-270
Units
About 168,500 battery packs (an additional 357,500 battery packs were sold worldwide)
Manufactured in
Japan, China
Sold at / sales period
Lenovo and IBM Web sites, telephone and direct sales, and Lenovo and IBM authorized distributors between February 2005 and September 2006, as an accessory, for between $150 and $180 and as part of a ThinkPad notebook computer, for between $750 and $3500.
Distributor
Lenovo (United States) Inc., of Research Triangle Park, N.C., International Business Machines Corp., of Armonk, N.Y.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in ThinkPad notebook computers

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

Recall contact information

Customers should contact Lenovo at (800) 426-7378 anytime or log on to www.lenovo.com/batteryprogram to determine if the battery is part of the recall and to receive a replacement battery.

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

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