Do you own a ThinkPad X1 Carbon? Here’s how to tell if it could be affected, and what to do if it is.
Lenovo is recalling fifth-generation ThinkPad X1 Carbon laptops manufactured between December 2016 and October 2017. The affected models are 20HQ, 20HR, 20K3 and 20K4.
The issue is that an unfastened screw left inside the case during manufacture can damage the battery and – as we've seen in several other instances – damaging a lithium battery can lead to an internal short causing rapid discharge resulting in overheating, sometimes to the point of catching fire.
Only three instances of this specific problem have been reported to Lenovo – none resulting in a fire.
Owners can enter the serial number of their ThinkPads into Lenovo's form to find out whether their computers should be inspected. Some units manufactured within the specified period were checked for this issue before they left Lenovo's inventory.
The company recommends that affected notebooks are not used until they have been inspected and if necessary repaired at Lenovo's expense. Arrangements can be made by phoning 1800 954 173 or emailing X1Inspection@Lenovo.com.
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon series has been generally well regarded.
