Apple Institutes Recall for Certain MacBook Pro Models due to Potential Fire Hazard
In a recent development, Apple has announced a voluntary repair program for the 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina Display sold between September 2015 and February 2017. The move comes due to concerns about overheating batteries that may pose a fire safety risk [1].
Last month, a customer reported that their 2015 MacBook Pro exploded during normal use, filling their home with toxic smelling smoke and triggering smoke and CO alarms [2]. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident, but there was some damage to the customer's home.
This is the second product recall this year for Apple, following the recall and exchange program for international wall plug adapters in April [4]. The adapters may break and create a risk of electrical shock if touched.
To determine if a MacBook Pro is impacted, users can check the serial number on Apple’s website. If a MacBook Pro is eligible for the recall, users are advised to stop using it and follow instructions for battery replacement [5].
However, it's worth noting that a 2015 15-inch MacBook Pro Retina may not be part of a specific Apple battery recall program currently active. Apple does offer extended battery repair service for older Mac laptops, including those like your 2015 model, for up to 10 years from when the product was last sold, subject to parts availability [1].
To check if your MacBook Pro’s battery is eligible for service or replacement:
- Visit Apple’s official support website and enter your MacBook’s serial number in the service and repair coverage check tool.
- You can also check your battery’s health status on your MacBook by holding the Option key and clicking the battery icon in the menu bar. Alternatively, check in System Information under Power for cycle count and condition.
If your battery shows abnormal status or poor health (e.g., significantly reduced capacity, unexpected shutdowns), it may be eligible for battery service or replacement even if there isn’t an active recall specifically for your model [3].
Given the large used market for Apple products, it might be worth checking even if the buy date doesn't fall neatly within that timeframe.
The replacement process involves sending the MacBook Pro to an Apple Repair Center for examination and repair, which can take up to two weeks. This lengthy repair process could be problematic for professional users who rely heavily on their machines for work.
The situation could have been much worse, such as on a plane. Apple encourages users to take advantage of the repair program to ensure the safety of their devices and the people around them.
[1] - https://support.apple.com/kb/HT208995 [2] - https://www.macrumors.com/2021/09/21/macbook-pro-recall-overheating-battery/ [3] - https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT202524 [4] - https://www.apple.com/support/power-adapters/ [5] - https://www.apple.com/support/macbook-pro-battery-recall/
- Despite the recent recall for some 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina Display units, it's also essential to consider the potential issues with older models, as Apple offers extended battery repair services for up to 10 years from the last sale date.
- Gizmodo reported that the tech world is abuzz with discussions about the potential risks posed by outdated technology, particularly smartphones and gadgets, as they age and could potentially malfunction, leading to safety concerns.
- In the future, technology giants like Apple might need to focus more on proactive measures to prevent such incidents, as recall programs can be costly and time-consuming, potentially affecting user trust and satisfaction with their tech products.
