Maytag Refrigerator Recall Expansion — CPSC #09-322

Advisory summary — On August 25, 2009, Maytag and the CPSC expanded the March 2009 refrigerator compressor relay fire recall (CPSC #09-145) to include approximately 46,000 additional units under CPSC Recall #09-322.

Hazard

The same compressor relay defect addressed in CPSC Recall #09-145 applies to this expansion: an electrical failure in the relay that activates the refrigerator’s compressor can cause overheating and ignite nearby materials. Between the original recall announcement in March 2009 and the expansion in August 2009, Maytag received 23 additional reports of relay ignition, including 4 cases of property damage ranging from smoke damage to more extensive kitchen damage. The continued pattern of incidents prompted the addition of more model numbers to the recall.

Affected units

  • Brands: Maytag, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag, Crosley
  • Side-by-side models: Model numbers beginning with MZ
  • Top-freezer models: CT15G4, CTB152, CTL151, CTM152, CTN151, MTB195, MTB215, MTB245, MTF195, MTF215, PTB155, PTB175, PTB195, PTB215
  • Estimated units in this expansion: Approximately 46,000 (United States)

How to identify

Locate the model and serial number label inside the refrigerator compartment — typically affixed to the left interior wall or door jamb. If your model number begins with MZ (side-by-side) or matches one of the top-freezer model numbers listed above, your unit is covered by this expansion recall. Consumers whose units were covered by the original March 2009 recall (CPSC #09-145) and who have not yet had the relay replaced should also contact Maytag. Call (866) 533-9817 or visit repair.maytag.com to verify coverage and schedule service.

What to do

  1. Confirm your refrigerator model number matches the expansion recall list above.
  2. Call Maytag at (866) 533-9817 to schedule a free in-home compressor relay replacement.
  3. If you received a repair under the original March 2009 recall, verify with Maytag that the correct relay was installed.
  4. Do not attempt the relay replacement yourself; the repair requires a certified technician.

Urgency level

High. This expansion confirms the relay defect affects a broader range of models than originally identified. Owners of MZ-prefix or the listed top-freezer models should schedule the free repair without delay.

Further reading

Official CPSC recall page: CPSC Recall #09-322 — Maytag Expands Recall of Refrigerators Due to Fire Hazard. See also the original recall: CPSC #09-145.

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