Sony is recalling 73000 VAIO TZ-series notebook computers because of a reported "burn hazard" related to faulty wiring near notebook hinges, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Sony. The USCPSC is reporting 15 VAIO customers have lodged complaints of their notebooks overheating with one customer claiming their notebook caused minor burns.
Consumers are urged to stop using the recalled notebooks "immediately and contact Sony to determine if their notebook is affected," according to the USCPSC alert issued today. Information posted on Sony's Web site regarding the recall contradicts USCPSC's advice and says customers who have affected models "can continue to use the unit. However, they should still call 1-888-526-6219 at their earliest convenience."
According to Sony the models in question are VAIO VGN-TZ100 series, VGN-TZ200 series, VGN-TZ300 series and the VGN-TZ2000 series. Notebook models were sold through the SonyStyle stores and Web site, at retails stores, and via business-to-business channels between the dates of July 2007 and August 2008, according to the USCPC.
Sony states on its Web site:
"The issue involves a small number of units which may overheat due to a wiring problem. Sony has initiated a voluntary program to perform a free inspection and, if necessary, a repair to ensure these units meet our high quality standards."
Sony is directing VAIO customers to visit a "fixmypc" Web page at its site and follow the instructions to determine if your model is impacted.
Sony Plagued By Long History of Recalls
Unlike notebook recalls in past that have been traced back to battery problems, this time around the recall doesn't appear to be battery related. According to the USCPSC the recall has to do with "Irregularly positioned wires near the computer's hinge and/or a dislodged screw inside the hinge can cause a short circuit and overheating. This poses a burn hazard to consumers."
Sony is no stranger to recalls. Last year Acer America recalled 27000 notebook batteries manufactured by Sony. Before that Dell recalled 4.1 million notebook batteries made by Sony. In 2006 Apple recalled 1.8 million Sony laptop batteries.
