Sony backflips on Vaio problems, issues recall notice

By Patrick Avenell

SYDNEY, NSW: One week after telling Current.com.au that there would be no Vaio recall, Sony Australia has today issued a recall notice on three of its Vaio models. This backflip came without forewarning, with Sony claiming that problems with its notebook computers would only occur in “rare” instances.

The three recalled Vaio models are VPCF115FG VPCF116FG and VPCF117HG. The hazard of these models is that should a defect occur, the notebook can overheat, causing a burn injury to the consumer.

“Recently, we became aware of a potential issue affecting VAIO notebook models VPCF115FG, VPCF116FG and VPCF117HG, available on the Australian market since January 2010,” said an unknown spokesperson on the Government-run Product Recalls website.

“In rare cases, these notebook computers can overheat due to a potential malfunction of the internal temperature management system.”

Affected consumers are encouraged to download a firmware upgrade from this website, or to call Sony Australia on 1300 137 669.

Last Thursday, a Sony spokesperson was quoted on Current.com.au saying that there was no Vaio recall.

“This is definitely not a recall. Sony has not referred to it as a recall in any market around the world. Sony has made the decision to make this announcement in order to avoid any potential burn injury. The affected VAIO product is not being recalled. This potential issue can be rectified with a software update conducted by the VAIO owner,” said the spokesperson.