Microsoft to Recall Surface Pro Power Cords

ZDNet’s Mary Jo Foley has confirmed that Microsoft will soon issue a recall for Surface Pro, Pro 2 and Pro 3 power cords. Apparently, these cords can develop issues when they become too tightly wound. (This recall does not concern the entire power adapter.)

The recall will not impact Surface Pro 4 or Surface Book, which certainly have enough problems as it is. But it doesn’t impact non-Pro devices like Surface RT, Surface 2, or Surface 3 either.

“As a result of damage caused by AC power cords being wound too tightly, twisted or pinched over an extended period of time, a very small proportion of Surface Pro customers have reported issues with their AC power cord,” Microsoft noted in a statement to Ms. Foley. “We will be releasing details of how customers can obtain a free replacement cable shortly.”

Microsoft was forced to come clean a bit earlier than intended thanks to a report in Channelnomics, which said that the recall will be voluntary.

Microsoft seems set to replace hundreds of thousands of power cords for earlier models of its Surface range of tablets, as the vendor believes the products are prone to overheating.

Channelnomics Europe has learned that the vendor giant is to release a statement at 6am Pacific standard time on Friday explaining that it is enacting a “voluntary recall” of AC power supplies for its Surface Pro, Surface Pro 2, and Surface Pro 3 models. The recall reportedly applies to all devices sold before 15 July 2015.

According to the Microsoft statement, if the cords are “sharply or repeatedly bent… [or] tightly wrapped” they are prone to overheating and, as such, could pose a fire hazard. Eligible customers wishing to obtain a replacement will, as of Friday, be directed to a specially constructed website, where they can order one. Affected customers will also be advised to dispose of or recycle their existing power cords safely and in accordance with local regulations.

Microsoft will formally unveil its recall plans this Friday as scheduled.