Nikon Recalls Camera Batteries

Do you have a Nikon D70? Well then listen up. Nikon is initiating a voluntary recall of the EN-EL3 battery that comes standard with the D70 line after manufacturing flaws have been linked to overheating and damage during charging.

NikonUSA: Nikon Inc. is asking your cooperation in connection with a voluntary recall of certain lot numbers of its Nikon Model EN-EL3 rechargeable lithium ion battery packs. The battery pack can experience a short circuit causing it to overheat and possibly melt, posing a potential hazard to consumers. There have only been four confirmed reports of incidents of the problem worldwide, and while no injuries have taken place, Nikon Inc. has initiated this recall of the affected lot numbers as a reflection of its commitment to safety and product quality. We are asking that owners of the affected battery packs return them to Nikon Inc. for a free replacement.

The Nikon EN-EL3 battery pack is provided as a supplied accessory with the purchase of Nikon’s digital SLR D100, D70, and D50 cameras. It is also sold separately at retail under Nikon’s model number 26265. The EN-EL3 battery pack involved in this recall was first distributed by Nikon in May 2004 and is still being sold at retail.

Nikon offers a replacement battery to be shipped postage paid (you print the label and drop it off at UPS same day) or you can pay an additional $10 and give Nikon your credit card number to get a new battery shipped to you before you return yours. You can find out more information about which batteries are being recalled by visiting the official NikonUSA site.

I’ve never had a problem with my battery being hot but I’m going to err on the side of caution and send mine back. Besides, a new battery is a new battery, right? I’ll just have to use my CR2 adapter until my new battery arrives.

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