Surface Power Cord Recall & How to Get Another Cord

Microsoft’s Surface and Surface Pro tablets may have revolutionized the way we think about tablets, but they’re not beyond trouble, either. The Surface Pro 4 and Surface Book that the company released last year had more than a few software issues fixed by software updates. It turns out that the Surface Pro, Surface Pro 3, and Surface Pro 2 devices also have a somewhat serious problem. Power cords can fray and stop working properly. That’s why Microsoft rolled out a Surface Power Cord Recall program a few weeks ago.

The company is providing owners of previous-generation Surface devices with an all-new power cord free of charge. Also, the company says it designed the program to replace power cords as seamlessly as possible.

Surface Power Cord Recall: What You Need to Know

Before you go to your Surface to unplug it, there are some things you should know about the recall. First, Microsoft says the recall doesn’t actually affect every Surface device it sells. Instead, the cable issue is directly related to the improved Power Cable found in early Surface Pro devices. The Surface Pro is Microsoft’s answer to high-end tablets and ultrabooks like the MacBook.

The problem is not the cable that connects to the Surface, but the part of the cable that plugs directly into the outlet. This early cable can burn from the constant stress it’s subjected to if your power cable sits at an angle. Microsoft is replacing this part of the cable on the Surface Pro, Surface Pro 2, and some Surface Pro 3 devices.

Newer wires in the surface line have a light bulb that connects to the wall outlet and prevents it from fraying. The company says it’s making the updated cable available for new Surface Pro 3 purchases. No new cable quality for recall. All Surface Pro and Surface Pro 2 devices are eligible.

Surface Power Cord Recall: How to Request a Replacement

Microsoft says anyone who qualifies can sign up on the recall website and receive new Surface Power Cords. sign up for Surface Power Cord Recall website it’s pretty easy. You’ll need the ID number of the Surface Pro you’re ordering a replacement cable for. You will also need your Microsoft Account credentials. Look under your Surface’s stand for the required ID number.

Some recalls require you to return an old part in exchange for access to a new part that fixes your issue. Not so with this Surface Power Cord recall. Anyone eligible for a replacement does not have to return their old cable. Often, this is because cables can have problems even if you can’t see them fraying from the outside.

Everyone gets a single Surface Power Cord for free, but Microsoft says it will continue to offer the new power cord for purchase in case users need another.

While Microsoft encourages users to immediately discard any cables that are eligible for the Surface Power Cord Recall, it’s a good idea to stick with any working power cords until a new one arrives. This is because Microsoft says it will take seven to ten business days to get the new power cord to your door.

Normally, you can return an under warranty or Microsoft Full Warranty Surface directly to a Microsoft Store and skip shipping altogether. That’s not the case with this Surface Power Cord Recall. Microsoft says users should request the replacement power cord on its recall website.

Good luck replacing your Surface Power Cable and your Surface Pro in general.