Tech giant Lenovo recalls portable battery sold in Australia over fears it could burst into flames

A portable battery has been recalled over concerns it could burst into flames as a result of a manufacturing issue.

The Lenovo USB-C laptop power bank (20000 mAh) charges USB-C laptops and devices and was sold in Australia and overseas in online stores including Ingram Micro, Landmark Computers and JW computers.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on Friday issued a recall for the product for stock sold between May 12 and July 8.

The consumer watchdog said the product was recalled because of an internal screw that can come loose, causing the lithium-ion battery to short circuit and overheat.

“There is a risk of a serious burn injury or death and/or property damage if the battery overheats and catches fire,” the ACCC said.

Affected power banks can be identified by the model number PBLG2W, part number 40ALLG2WWW and a range of build dates located at the back of the power bank.

The impacted build dates include 21/12, 22/01, 22/02, 22/03, 22/04, 22/05 and 22/06.

Customers who have purchased one of the impacted products should immediately stop using the product and contact Lenovo to receive a replacement product or a full refund.

Consumers can contact Lenovo via its product recalls page or phone 1800 043 849, or email recalls@lenovo.com.

They are advised to include ‘Lenovo USB-C Power Bank Recall’ in the subject line of the email.

Customers are urged not to throw the battery in the rubbish, home recycling, or recycling boxes found at retail and home improvement stores, as this is a fire hazard.

Consumers should dispose of the power bank in accordance with the local requirements for disposing of lithium batteries.

Lenovo is partnered with Product Recycling who offer recycling programs and drop-off locations for lithium batteries.