Ortovox issues voluntary recall for all M1 and M2 avalanche transceivers

In cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Ortovox is announcing a recall for all M1 and M2 model avalanche transceivers.

Ortovox has determined that under certain circumstances, due to variance in the size of AA (LR6) batteries, there is a chance that the batteries in an M1 and M2 avalanche transceiver could become dislodged as a result of a severe blow, resulting in a loss of power. Apparently, the international standard for AA (LR6) batteries allows for a significant variance in both the length and diameter of the battery. These variances allow for batteries that meet the standards, but which may lack a prominent negative terminal, which could allow the battery to dislodge.  

Ortovox is quick to point out that the company’s M1 and M2 transceivers have passed the European EN standard for shock resistance. However, the battery dislodgment has been observed under testing conditions different from the European testing standard. According to the company, there have been three reports of failure in the field – out of the nearly 100,000 beacons manufactured and sold world-wide. There have been no reports of injuries.

There is no need for consumers to return their transceivers. Ortovox is offering a free exchange of the battery compartment lid for all M1 and M2 units. The new lid, which is specially marked to easily show that it is the new lid, reduces the tolerance and movement of the batteries within the battery compartment.

The recall applies to all M1 and M2 transceivers, regardless of the color and year of manufacture. The retrofit does not involve the Ortovox X1 or F1 units. Ortovox will send consumers a new battery compartment lid at no cost. This retrofit battery compartment can be easily installed and complete instructions for the battery compartment lid retrofit are on the website – www.ortovox.com.