Nikon Battery Recall EN-EL 15 for D7000 & D800/800e

April 25, 2012

Nikon has just announced a recall for EN-EL15 batteries used in the D7000 and the new D800/800e.  Just a few weeks after releasing the new batteries, a few users around the world experienced similar problems with overheating.  The advisory is below:

"Nikon Inc. is asking your cooperation in connection with a voluntary recall of certain lot numbers of its Nikon Model EN-EL15 rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. The battery pack can experience a short circuit causing it to overheat and possibly causing the outside casing to become deformed, posing a potential hazard to consumers. There have only been seven (7) 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 pack return them to Nikon Inc. for a free replacement.

The Nikon EN-EL15 battery pack is provided as a supplied accessory with the purchase of Nikon’s digital SLR D800, D800E, D7000 cameras and the Nikon 1 V1 advanced camera with interchangeable lens. It is also sold separately at retail under Nikon’s model number 27011. The EN-EL15 battery pack involved in this recall was first distributed by Nikon in March 2012 and is still being sold at retail.

This voluntary recall is limited only to those units of the Model EN-EL15 in lots E and F.

To determine whether a battery pack is in lots E and F and among those being recalled, first confirm that “EN-EL15” is written on the name plate on side of the battery pack, as shown on the photo below. Then on this same side of the battery pack, locate the lot number for your EN-EL15 battery pack. Lot numbers are alphanumeric characters printed in blank ink at the bottom of this name plate as shown in the photo below. Tilt the battery pack so that light shines directly on the area to see the lot number. If you have an EN-EL15 battery pack with the 9th digit of the 14 digit lot number with either the letter E or F, you should immediately stop using it and remove the battery pack from the battery compartment. EN-EL15 battery packs with which the 9th digit is an A, B, C, D, G or any subsequent letter in the alphabet are not affected and not subject to this recall.

To return and receive your new EN-EL15 battery pack, click here or call toll free 1-800-645-6687.  Nikon will then send a UPS courier to the address provided, bringing a new EN-EL15 replacement battery at the same time. At this time, UPS will collect the recalled battery for safe return to Nikon. Your EN-EL15 battery pack will be replaced free of charge within approximately 7-10 days of our receipt of your request for a new EN-EL15 battery pack.

If the lot number of your EN-EL15 battery pack does not indicate as determined above to be in lot E or F, your EN-EL15 battery pack is not subject to this recall. No other Nikon battery packs are involved in this recall. Nikon’s digital SLR D800, D800E, D7000 cameras and Nikon 1 V1 advanced camera with interchangeable lens as well as any other Nikon cameras are also not subject to this recall.

Nikon is committed to safety and to providing to its customers only the highest quality products. We regret any inconvenience this matter may cause you and appreciate your continued support of Nikon and its products."

See the Nikon Advisory.

And yes, my new D800 came with the battery that is being recalled.

/John Soulé, IPA


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