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CPSC, Verizon Wireless Announce Recall of Counterfeit Cell Phone Batteries

Reported: June 24, 2004 Initiated: June 24, 2004 #04559

Product Description

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.

Reason for Recall

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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What product was recalled?
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.. Recalled by Verizon Wireless of Bedminster, N.J.. Units affected: About 50,000.
Why was this product 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.
What should consumers do?
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.
Which agency issued this recall?
This recall was issued by the CPSC on June 24, 2004. Severity: Moderate. Recall number: 04559.