205,000 ThinkPad batteries recalled by Lenovo

Lenovo has voluntarily recalled select Sanyo Electric lithium ion extended-life batteries used in its ThinkPad laptop computers.

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said in its recall announcement: "Consumers should stop using the recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed." Lenovo is offering a free replacement battery.

The recall affects 9-cell batteries with the part number FRU P/N 92P1131. They were sold between November 2005 and February 2007 as an accessory for about $180.

The recalled devices were used in ThinkPad laptop models: R60, R60e, T60, T60p, Z60m, Z61e, Z61m and Z61p. About 100,000 of the recalled Sanyo Electric battery packs were sold in the US, with 105,000 more sold worldwide.

The defect is not with the internal battery cell, according to the CPSC statement. A blow to the corner of the laptop while the battery is installed, which might occur if the device is dropped, can result in overheating. Lenovo received four reports of "batteries overheating and damaging the notebook", according to the recall notice.

In September, Lenovo also recalled a series of Sony batteries used in ThinkPad computers.

Candace Lombardi writes for CNET News.com