Nokia has just announced that they are issuing a recall on about 14 million mobile phone chargers. They claim that they could be dangerous and will replace them for free. Go to Nokia.com to learn how to exchange your charger for a new one.
The chargers in question have the Nokia name on them, but were manufactured by BYD Co., a Chinese battery and auto part maker. The potentially faulty chargers are models AC-3E, AC-3U and AC-4U. The 3E and 3U were manufactured between June 15 and Aug 9, 2009. The 4U was manufactured between April 13 and Oct 25, 2009. These chargers were sold in Europe and North America.
The default in the chargers stems from the possibility that the plastic covers might come loose and expose wiring, which could cause an electric shock if touched while plugged into an electrical socket. Luckily, this is a preventive measure and no injuries or accidents have been reported.
This is another example of shoddy products coming from China to the United States. Last year there was a problem with toothpaste, then drywall and now phone chargers. This seems to becoming a regular issue with Chinese made products. They are not the only ones with quality control problems, but I hope that they are able to get things under control. It seems like anytime you read about a mass recall of a product in the news that it originated in China. This is a very discouraging trend and one that I hope will not continue.
On the plus side, it is very encouraging to see Nokia take the initiative and initiate a recall before there are any accidents. More companies should take the high road and do what is right. What could have been a disaster for Nokia may end up looking like a good PR move. Nokia subcontracted the manufacture of the phone chargers to a (most likely) lowest bid Chinese company. They could have tried to pass the buck and blame there sub-contractor for any issues, but they are taking responsibility. This recall will probably end up costing Nokia millions of dollars. Hopefully, in the future they will keep a better eye on there products and there sub-contractors.
In the meantime, I am going to check my phone chargers and see if any of them are part of this recall. I would suggest you do the same!
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