Warning: Sony Recalls VAIO Flip PC Laptops Due to Fire Danger

Due to the potential fire danger and risk of harm to consumers, Sony and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, have issued a serious warning to consumers who have purchased Sony's VAIO Flip PC laptops with model number SVF11N13CXS. Owners of this laptop should immediately stop using the device, shut it down, unplug it and contact Sony for instructions on how to return the product for a free repair or a full refund.

According to the alert Sony is aware of at least four incidents, which occurred in Asia, of computers overheating, resulting in units smoking, catching on fire and melting. No injuries have been reported.

Affected laptops were sold via Sony retail stores nationwide and online at www.store.sony.com from February 2014 to April 2014 for about $800.

The computers were sold in three colors silver, black and pink. They have a Panasonic-manufactured lithium-ion battery and a folding touch screen that measures about 11.6 inches diagonally and a backlit keyboard. The VAIO logo is etched on the outer top of the computer, near the hinge. The model and serial numbers are printed on a black label with white lettering on the underside of the screen. To locate the label, consumers should open the computer, move the switch from the lock to the release position and flip the display.

Consumers who believe they own one of these units can contact Sony toll-free at (866)702-7669 anytime or online at www.sony.com and click on the Support tab, then on Electronics and then on Product Support. Once on the Product Support site, click on the Computers & Tablets tab, then on VAIO Laptops & Desktops and scroll down to Product Alerts for more information.