Nikon has announced a voluntary replacement scheme for a sub-standard batch of batteries for its 1 V1, D7000, D800 and D800E cameras. EN-EL15 batteries with an E or F as the 9th character of their serial numbers are at risk of overheating and becoming distorted, though the company says no customers have yet reported the problem. Nikon says it will replace any battery from the affected batch (which only became available after February 29th 2012).Press statement:
Notice to users of the EN-EL15 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
This is an important announcement regarding the EN-EL15 battery which is used in the Nikon D7000, D800, D800E and Nikon 1 V1 cameras.
While Nikon takes great measures to assure high quality products, it has come to our attention that a certain number of EN-EL15 batteries manufactured by one of our suppliers did not meet Nikon’s internal quality standards. In extremely rare cases, this may cause the battery to overheat and the exterior casing to become deformed. Batteries exhibiting this problem have only been confirmed in the Nikon manufacturing process. We have received no reports of this problem from the market. Therefore, in order to ensure the safety of our customers and their equipment, we have initiated a voluntary replacement scheme for applicable products.
Customers using an applicable EN-EL15 battery may request a replacement battery as indicated below.
Applicable batteries
- Locate the lot number for your EN-EL15 battery. Lot numbers are alphanumeric characters printed at the bottom of the name plate on the bottom of the battery as shown below.
- Check the 9th digit of the lot number as indicated below.
- If the 9th digit of the EN-EL15 battery lot number is E or F then the battery needs to be replaced as it may be affected by this issue.- If the 9th digit of the EN-EL15 battery lot number is A, B, C, D, G or any subsequent letter in the alphabet then the battery is safe to use. This voluntary recall is limited only to those units of the model EN-EL15 in lots E and F.
This issue does not apply to EN-EL15 batteries supplied with the D7000 and Nikon 1 V1 purchased before February 29, 2012 or to batteries purchased individually before February 29, 2012.
Replacement battery requests
To return and receive your new EN-EL15 battery pack, click here and follow the instructions immediately below the battery image. You will need to click a link and enter the battery lot number to determine if the battery is eligible.
source: dpreview
