If you have a laptop from Dell, then you’ll want to check out their website for a massive battery recall that is going on. And by massive, I mean Dell wants a few million of them back because they might catch fire on you. A ticking time bomb? Not exactly, but you’re better safe than sorry.
Hold on, though. The exchange process can leave you crippled and plugged into a wall for a few weeks until your replacement arrives.
Laptop owners seeking replacements for recalled batteries will receive priority if they use the Dell special site set up to handle the recall, the company said today. However, users of many Latitude, Inspiron, Precision, XPS, and mobile workstation models may still be stuck with only AC power for a few weeks.
Dell has been “cranking battery production over the last couple of weeks” with its battery suppliers in preparation for this massive recall, says spokesperson Gretchen Miller. If you determine via the Dell Battery Recall site or by calling the company at 866-342-0011 that you have a potentially defective battery, Dell will send a replacement along with postage-paid packaging to return the old one. But it may take weeks to get the new battery, or longer for certain out-of-production models.
In the meantime, you can safely use the laptop with the AC power cord. But since replacement batteries are not available in stores, only from the Dell Web site, the recall process is likely your fastest option, Miller says. [pcworld]
Something to consider if portability is important to you. Just plan accordingly. I want to make a “dude” joke here, but it’s probably better left unsaid.