Apple Battery Recall Information
On August 24, 2006, Apple announced the iBook G4 and PowerBook G4 Battery Exchange Program. Apple has determined that certain lithium-ion batteries containing cells manufactured by Sony Corporation of Japan pose a safety risk that may result in overheating under rare circumstances. The affected batteries were sold worldwide from October 2003 through August 2006 and were used with 12-inch Book G4 and 12-inch PowerBook and 15-inch PowerBook G4 computers. Apple is voluntarily recalling the affected batteries and has initiated a worldwide exchange program to provide customers with a replacement battery, free of charge.
It’s important to note that only certain iBook G4 and PowerBook G4 batteries are affected. The chart below will help you identify the battery models and serial numbers that apply to your iBook or PowerBook. To view the model and serial numbers labeled on the bottom of the battery, you must remove the battery from the computer. The battery serial number is printed in black or dark grey lettering beneath a barcode.
If the first 5 digits of your battery’s 12-digit serial number fall within the ranges noted below, please order a replacement battery or batteries immediately through Apple’s battery program website. Please note you’ll be asked for your serial number and a shipping address when you visit this page.
Computer model | Battery model | Battery serial number range |
12-inch iBook G4 | A1061 | ZZ338 – ZZ427 3K429 – 3K611 6C519 – 6C552 ending with S9WA, S9WC, or S9WD |
12-inch PowerBook G4 | A1079 | ZZ411 – ZZ427 3K428 – 3K611 |
15-inch PowerBook G4 | A1078 and A1148< |
3K425 – 3K601 |
After serial number verification, a new battery will be shipped to you free of charge. You may exchange up to three batteries through the website. When you receive the replacement battery, please use the same shipping packaging and the included prepaid shipping label to return the recalled battery to Apple. If you do not have access to the website listed above, or if you have more than three batteries to exchange, please contact your Apple Account Manager or call Apple at 1-800-APL-CARE (1-800-275-2273) between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., central standard time, seven days a week, for further assistance.
If you have additional questions, Apple has provided a handy FAQ about this program.
Categories Hardware