Apple to replace faulty 15-inch MacBook Pro batteries

"We recently discovered that some 15-inch MacBook Pro batteries supplied to Apple do not meet our high standards for battery performance," the company wrote in a message on its support Web site. "To give our users the best experience possible, we will replace these batteries for customers free of charge."

The exchange program is in response to reports of 15-inch MacBook Pro batteries that have become swollen or deformed due an excessive amount of heat.

According to Apple, the affected batteries may have been included in 15-inch MacBook Pro systems that were sold from February 2006 through May 2006. The affected batteries have model number A1175 and a 12-digit serial number that ends with U7SA, U7SB or U7SC.

To view the model and serial numbers located on the bottom of the battery, customers must remove the battery from the computer and turn it upside down. The battery serial number is located above the barcode.

Customers whose MacBook Pro battery meets the aforementioned criteria should call Apple with their MacBook Pro and MacBook Pro battery serial numbers ready. Apple says it will take about 3-5 business days for customers to receive their replacement battery.

"The affected batteries do not pose a safety risk. You may continue to use your current battery until a replacement arrives," the company said.

When customers receive their replacement battery, Apple also asks that they use the same shipping packaging and included prepaid shipping label to return the recalled battery to Apple for analysis.