Belkin recalls in-car iPod kit over "fire risk"

 

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By Barry Collins

Posted on 26 Oct 2009 at 12:27

Belkin is recalling a number of in-car iPod FM tuners over fears that faulty washers could cause the unit to catch fire.

The voluntary recall affects the TuneBase series of products, which transmit the iPod's audio output over spare FM frequencies so that you can listen to your music in the car.

The company admits that, in extreme circumstances, the device could ignite. "Belkin has identified that a component of the TuneBase, the washer, can cause an electrical short circuit when plugged into a vehicle's cigarette lighter adapter," Belkin's recall notice warns.

"After a rigorous investigation, Belkin has determined that under certain conditions of heat, humidity and prolonged periods of power-on (e.g. when the TuneBase is left plugged in overnight), some units with the washer have shown potential to pose a risk of fire."

Belkin claims the defect is "isolated to a limited number of units" but is nonetheless recalling all TuneBase products sold after 1 April 2009 as a precaution.

The Belkin recall site shows customers how to identify the exact products being recalled.

Customers are sensibly advised to stop using the affected products immediately.