Lenovo recalls slew of ThinkPad batteries

Update: A Lenovo representative has informed us that there is not exactly a recall - only a 12-month long service warranty extension. "Recalls are far more infrequent and severe."

Lenovo has issued a battery recall for a "limited number" of ThinkPad users after reports of failing units pile in. Users are met with a Power Manager or Message Center error which cries "irreparable damage" or that the battery cannot be charge. Most of the affected seem to agree that the error is coupled with a quickly-deteriorating battery life and sudden drops in the battery fuel gauge.

Models suffering from the defect include the ThinkPad R60, R61, T60, T61, X60, and X61. Lenovo has listed the following battery part numbers as being affected: 42T4546, 42T4566, 92P1141, 42T4550, 42T4567, 42T4568, 92P1169, 92P1173, 93P5028, and 93P5030.


The company has posted a downloadable diagnostic utility to help you determine whether or not your battery is defective. They note that the issue is not a safety hazard and poses no risk to your health - in other words, the battery isn't going to explode on you. Replacement units are being handed out for free, so take advantage of it if you have a dud.