Battery Exchange Program - iBook G4 and PowerBook G4

Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ is intended to provide more information about Apple's voluntary recall of certain lithium-ion rechargeable batteries that contain cells manufactured by Sony Corporation of Japan. The affected batteries are used with 12-inch iBook G4 and 12-inch PowerBook and 15-inch PowerBook G4 computers. Apple has initiated an exchange program and will provide customers with a replacement battery, free of charge.

Which batteries are being recalled?
The recalled batteries are used in 12-inch iBook G4, 12-inch PowerBook G4, and 15-inch PowerBook G4 computers. Please use the chart below to identify the battery model and serial numbers that apply to your iBook or PowerBook. If the first 5 digits of your battery’s 12-digit serial number fall within the noted ranges, please order a replacement battery immediately.

To view the model and serial numbers located on the bottom of the battery, you must remove the battery from the computer. The battery serial number is printed in black or dark grey lettering beneath a barcode. Please use the chart below to identify the battery model and serial numbers that apply to your iBook or PowerBook.

I have one of the recalled batteries. Should I stop using it?
Apple urges you to stop using your battery, remove it from your system, and order a replacement battery immediately.

Can I use my computer without the battery in it?
Yes, once you've removed the affected battery, just plug in the AC adapter to power the computer until a replacement battery arrives.

Will Apple contact me if I have one of the recalled batteries?
Apple will send an email or a letter to iBook and PowerBook G4 owners who have registered their systems or purchased through our Apple on-line store. We encourage all customers to check their battery serial number even if they do not hear directly from Apple.

How do I get a replacement battery?
To order your replacement battery, visit http://support.apple.com/batteryprogram.
Customers in Australia, Asia (excluding Japan) and Latin America who are eligible should contact their local Asian Pacific or Latin American Apple Authorized Service Provider to obtain a replacement battery.

How long will it take to receive a replacement battery from Apple?
It will take approximately 7 to 9 business days for your replacement battery to arrive. Shipping time may vary due to availability of your battery model.

Where do I find the serial number of my iBook or PowerBook?
The PowerBook serial number is located on the side of the battery well in the top left corner. The iBook serial number is located underneath the keyboard. Or, you can use Apple System Profiler to confirm your serial number.

What should I do if I have a battery that shows signs of overheating?
If your battery shows signs of overheating such as discoloration or deformity, stop using the battery immediately and contact Apple at 800-275-2273 between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., central time, seven days a week, for further assistance.

Can I go to an Apple Retail store to exchange my battery?
The battery exchange program is being conducted through the battery exchange website at http://support.apple.com/batteryprogram. If you do not have access to the website, please call Apple at 800-275-2273 between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., central time, seven days a week, for further assistance.

Can I take my recalled battery to an Authorized Apple Service Provider (AASP) and exchange it for a new battery?
In the U.S., Canada, South America, Japan and Europe, the iBook and PowerBook G4 Battery Exchange Program is being conducted through the battery exchange website at http://support.apple.com/batteryprogram. If your country is not listed on the website, please contact Apple via phone or see your local service provider, reseller or distributor for assistance in processing your battery replacement order.

Customers in Australia, Asia (excluding Japan) and Latin America who are eligible should contact their local Asian Pacific or Latin American Apple Authorized Service Provider to obtain a replacement battery.

Do I have to return my recalled battery before I can receive a replacement battery?
No, you will receive a replacement battery first and then return the recalled battery.

What should I do with the recalled battery?
When you receive the replacement battery, please follow the enclosed instructions and use the same shipping packaging and included prepaid shipping label to return the recalled battery to Apple for proper disposal. You do not have to pay the postage to return the battery.

I've never had any problems with my battery. Should I have it replaced?
Yes. In the interest of safety, all recalled batteries should be replaced. Please check your battery to see if it qualifies for the battery exchange program.

I have more than one of the recalled batteries. Will Apple replace all my recalled batteries?
If your batteries have the designated serial numbers, Apple will provide you with replacement batteries, free of charge. You can order online up to three batteries to replace your current ones. If you have more than three batteries, please contact Apple at 800-275-2273 between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., central time, seven days a week, for further assistance. Please have the serial number of your iBook or PowerBook and the serial numbers of your batteries ready to provide to the phone agent.

I represent a group with several of the recalled batteries. Is it necessary for each user to contact Apple separately?
Apple suggests that you call your Apple account manager to facilitate the battery replacements for a large group. Of course, individuals can use the Apple website to obtain the replacement batteries.

I have an iBook G3 and recently obtained a replacement battery for it. Could I have one of the recalled batteries?
Since the currently shipping batteries are compatible with the 12-inch iBook G3, Apple recommends that you check your battery's model and serial number to see if you may have received one of the affected batteries. Please check the battery for model number A1061 and the noted serial numbers in the chart listed above.

If I received a replacement battery from a previous iBook or PowerBook Battery Exchange Program (2005), should I check to see if it is affected by this recall?
Apple recommends that you check your battery's model and serial number to see if you may have received one of the affected batteries.