Apple PowerBook 45W AC Adapter Recall
Apple is recalling about 570,000 AC adapters for older PowerBook G3 laptops because they can overheat and create a fire risk. While no injuries have been reported yet, Apple has received six reports of overheating adapters, making this a serious safety issue that requires immediate action. (Estimated repair/replacement value: $30-80 if not covered by recall program)
By RecallRadar Editorial Team
Sourced from CPSC. Last verified March 4, 2026.
On this page
Free checker
Check if you qualify
See whether your device may qualify for a free repair or replacement program before you spend money.
Check if you qualifyKey facts
- Date announced
- July 6, 2001
- Source agency
- CPSC
This recall involves safety concerns. Take action promptly.
✨ Plain-English Summary
Apple is recalling about 570,000 AC adapters for older PowerBook G3 laptops because they can overheat and create a fire risk. While no injuries have been reported yet, Apple has received six reports of overheating adapters, making this a serious safety issue that requires immediate action. (Estimated repair/replacement value: $30-80 if not covered by recall program)
Is This Recall Still Active?
Status: No - Expired
This recall is no longer active. You can still review details here for historical reference and confirmation.
What's Being Recalled
Quoted source excerpt from the official notice.
July 6, 2001Release # 01-188 Apple Recall Hotline: (866) 277-2096 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Mark Ross, (301) 504-7076 Apple Media Contact: Nathalie Welch, (408) 974-5430 or welch@apple.com CPSC, Apple Announces Recall of AC Adapter for Prior Generation PowerBook Laptops WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Apple, of Cupertino, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 570,000 AC adapters worldwide that were sold with prior generation PowerBook G3s. These AC adapters could overheat, posing a fire hazard.Apple received six reports of these adapters overheating. No injuries have been reported.No Titanium PowerBook G4 or iBook power adapters are part of this recall. The recall includes only AC adapters with a two-pin connector that came with Apple Macintosh PowerBooks or that were sold separately. The small rectangular black AC adapter box has a permanently attached cord on one end that connects to the computer and a detachable two-prong cord on the other end to plug into an AC outlet. It is approximately 4.75 inches long by 2 inches wide. The label located on the side of the adapter reads in part, "Macintosh PowerBook 45W AC Adapter" and "Model Number: M4402." Electronic and computer stores worldwide and Apple's web site sold these AC adapters with PowerBook G3s from May 1998 through March 2000. They also were sold separately for about $69.Consumers should stop using these AC adapters and contact Apple to receive a free replacement. For more information, contact Apple at (866) 277-2096 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT Sunday through Saturday, or go to their web site at www.apple.com/adapterexchange/ Hazard: Fire & Fire-Related Burn
Quick Info
Key facts from the official notice, kept in the article flow for easy cross-checking.
- Brand
- Apple
- Category
- device
- Source agency
- CPSC
- Announced
- July 6, 2001
- Country
- US
- Status
- Expired
Who's Affected
Specific models and identifiers listed in the source notice:
Model #1
Apple Macintosh PowerBook 45W AC Adapter
| # | Model |
|---|---|
| 1 | Apple Macintosh PowerBook 45W AC Adapter |
Technical model codes are manufacturer identifiers. Match both the product name and model code from your device settings, label, or packaging.
What You Should Do
Follow the remedy path from the official notice using the exact model and serial details above.
- 1Stop using your Apple PowerBook 45W AC Adapter (Model M4402) immediately if you have one
- 2Call Apple's recall hotline at (866) 277-2096 (open 8 a.m.–8 p.m. CT, seven days a week)
- 3Provide your adapter details to receive a free replacement
- 4Visit www.apple.com/adapterexchange/ for online support options
This program has ended. The official source page may no longer be available.
Don't miss the next apple recall — get alertsSource & Verification
This page summarizes the official notice and keeps key facts easy to verify.
- Official source
- CPSC
- Announced by source
- July 6, 2001
- Last reviewed by RecallRadar
- March 4, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify Apple serial eligibility?
Enter your serial number on Apple's official program page and compare the exact model details.
Do I need to back up before service?
Yes. Back up your device before any repair or replacement process.
Can I keep charging while waiting for support?
If the issue is battery or thermal-related, stop charging until Apple confirms eligibility.
What records should I keep?
Save serial photos, purchase proof, and all Apple support case confirmations.
Keep browsing with these internal hubs: apple recall hub and Device recall hub.
Official Resources
Use these primary sources for final eligibility and claim instructions.
View official notice from CPSCSee an inaccuracy?
Help us improve the accuracy of this recall information.
On this page
Free checker
Check if you qualify
See whether your device may qualify for a free repair or replacement program before you spend money.
Check if you qualifyKey facts
- Date announced
- July 6, 2001
- Source agency
- CPSC
Explore More
Related Recalls
Mac mini No Power Repair Program
Apple has determined that certain Mac mini units manufactured between 2023-2024 may experience a no power issue. Affected units will be repaired free of charge.
Jun 13, 2025
iPhone 14 Plus Rear Camera Repair Program
Apple has identified that a small percentage of iPhone 14 Plus devices may experience issues with the rear camera. Affected devices are eligible for free repair.
Nov 1, 2024
iPhone 12 MagSafe Audio Repair Program
Apple has determined that a small percentage of iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro devices may experience issues with audio quality due to a component issue. Affected devices may experience no sound from speakers or microphone when making calls. Apple will service affected devices free of charge.
May 4, 2021
iPhone 11 Display Module Replacement Program
Apple has determined that a small percentage of iPhone 11 displays may stop responding to touch due to a component failure. Apple will replace affected iPhone 11 displays free of charge.
Nov 18, 2020
MacBook Pro 15-inch Battery Recall
Apple has determined that, in a limited number of older generation 15-inch MacBook Pro units, the battery may overheat and pose a fire safety risk. Affected batteries will be replaced free of charge.
Jun 20, 2019