Razor USA Recalls GLW Battery Packs Sold with Hovertrax 2.0 Self-Balancing Hoverboards Due to Fire Hazard

What was recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall concerning specific removable battery packs manufactured by GLW. These batteries were sold as original equipment for the Hovertrax 2.0 self-balancing scooters, commonly referred to as hoverboards, under the Razor brand. This is not a blanket recall of all Razor products or even all Hovertrax models; it targets a very specific component installed within a particular timeframe. The affected items are UL-Listed Hovertrax 2.0 brand self-balancing scooters that were manufactured between September 2016 and August 2017. If your device falls outside this production window, it is not part of this specific safety notice.

To identify whether your hoverboard is included in this recall, you must look closely at the removable battery pack itself. The core issue lies with the GLW battery packs that were certified as compliant with ANSI/UL Standard 2271 by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). These packs are distinct because they have the name "GLW" written in large, prominent letters on the surface of the battery casing. Additionally, you should check for a white sticker located on the top of the battery pack, directly below the barcode. The serial number printed on this sticker will begin with the letters "GLW." If your battery pack does not display these specific markings, it is likely not part of the recalled batch.

The hoverboards themselves bear clear identification as well. The front of the self-balancing scooter will have "Hovertrax 2.0" printed on it. These devices feature two wheels at either end of articulated dual platforms and are powered by the aforementioned GLW battery packs. They were available in a wide variety of colors and patterns to appeal to different consumer preferences, including black, black monochrome, blue, green, red, red monochrome, white, rose gold, camouflage, ocean blue, purple, and three specific multicolor patterns known as Spectrum, Galaxy, and Carbon. While the exact number of units sold is not specified in the current recall data, the scope covers all units manufactured during that nine-month period with the identified GLW batteries.

This recall was initiated on August 25, 2021. It is important to note that while these products were certified as compliant with safety standards at the time of their initial inspection, subsequent reports indicated a failure mode in the lithium-ion cells within these specific GLW packs. The recall affects devices sold both in physical retail stores and online during the production period mentioned. If you purchased a Hovertrax 2.0 during this timeframe and still possess the original removable battery, it is critical to verify its markings immediately.

The hazard, explained

At the core of this recall is a specific type of energy storage component: the lithium-ion battery pack manufactured by GLW. To understand why these particular units are dangerous, it helps to look at how lithium-ion batteries function and where things can go wrong inside them. These batteries store energy in chemical form, allowing your hoverboard to power its motors and lights. Under normal conditions, this process is stable and controlled. However, the issue with the recalled GLW battery packs lies in their internal integrity. When these cells fail, they can experience what safety experts call a "thermal runaway."

Thermal runaway is a self-perpetuating cycle of heat generation. It often begins with a small internal short circuit or a defect in the separator that keeps the positive and negative electrodes apart. Once that barrier fails, electricity arcs inside the battery cell. This electrical arcing generates intense heat very quickly. Because the battery is sealed tightly within its casing to keep out moisture and air, that heat has nowhere to escape. As the temperature rises, it causes more chemical reactions that produce even more heat and gas. This creates a feedback loop where the hotter the battery gets, the faster it heats up.

In the case of these Hovertrax 2.0 models, this internal overheating leads to several visible and dangerous symptoms. The battery pack may begin to smoke as internal materials break down and release gases. If the situation is not interrupted, the pressure from the expanding gases can cause the casing to rupture or even explode. This is not just a matter of the device stopping working; it is a physical event that releases significant energy and heat into the immediate environment.

Why does this pose such a serious risk to consumers? Hoverboards are designed to be used while standing on them, meaning the battery pack is located directly beneath your feet, close to your body. When a lithium-ion battery undergoes thermal runaway, it can reach temperatures high enough to cause severe burns upon contact. Furthermore, if the battery ignites, it can set fire to nearby flammable materials, such as carpeting, clothing, or wooden flooring. The CPSC has received reports of these units smoking and catching fire, confirming that the theoretical risk of thermal runaway is a tangible reality for users of these specific models.

It is important to note that while these GLW battery packs were originally certified as compliant with UL Standard 2271, recalls often occur when post-market testing or incident reports reveal defects that were not apparent during initial certification. The fact that they were once certified does not mean they are immune to manufacturing flaws or degradation over time. The hazard here is not just about the battery dying; it is about the potential for violent failure due to overheating, which can lead to property damage and personal injury.

Because the mechanism of failure is internal and progressive, you cannot always predict when a specific pack will fail. One day it may charge normally, and the next it may begin to overheat during use or while sitting idle. This unpredictability is why the remedy involves immediate removal from service rather than waiting for a warning light or error message. The physical chemistry of the failing battery does not give ample warning before the temperature spikes to dangerous levels.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at risk for this specific recall includes anyone who purchased a Hovertrax 2.0 self-balancing scooter between September 2016 and August 2017, specifically those models equipped with the removable GLW battery pack. Because these devices were popular recreational items during that period, they are likely sitting in garages, attics, spare bedrooms, or storage units across the country today. The risk is not limited to active users; it extends to anyone who owns a unit that has been put away but still retains its internal power source. Since the defect lies within the lithium-ion battery itself, the hazard persists even if the hoverboard has not been ridden in years. A battery that appears dormant can still undergo thermal runaway, meaning the device is dangerous regardless of how recently it was used.

Within the group of owners, certain demographics face heightened vulnerability due to the nature of the hazard and their typical relationship with these devices. Children and teenagers were among the most common users of self-balancing hoverboards during the recalled timeframe. These devices are often marketed toward younger audiences for leisure and sport. If a child or teen is actively using a recalled unit, they are at direct risk of injury from smoke inhalation, burns, or explosion while operating the vehicle. Furthermore, young riders may lack the maturity to recognize early warning signs of battery failure, such as unusual heat or slight swelling, potentially continuing to use the device until a catastrophic failure occurs.

Another significant group at risk includes individuals living in multi-unit dwellings, such as apartments or condominiums, as well as those with attached garages. Lithium-ion battery fires are known for their intensity and rapid propagation. If a recalled hoverboard ignites while charging or sitting idle in a shared wall space or near combustible materials like curtains, paper, or wooden furniture, the potential for property damage and harm to neighbors increases dramatically. Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility may also be particularly vulnerable if they rely on such devices for transportation; a sudden fire or explosion during use could lead to severe physical trauma due to the lack of immediate egress or balance.

Finally, considerate households that have gifted or sold these items second-hand must recognize that the risk transfers with the product. The battery pack does not degrade its hazard potential simply because it has changed hands. If you gave a Hovertrax 2.0 to a friend, family member, or neighbor in the last few years, they are now in possession of a potentially dangerous device. The responsibility to notify them and ensure they stop using the item immediately is critical, as they may be unaware that their specific unit contains the defective GLW battery pack. The danger is silent until it becomes loud, making proactive communication essential for public safety.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether your self-balancing scooter is part of this specific recall requires a careful check of both the hoverboard itself and its removable battery pack. The issue does not affect every Hovertrax 2.0 model, but rather those specifically equipped with GLW battery packs manufactured during a narrow window of time. To determine if your device is included, you need to look for three distinct sets of information: the branding on the scooter, the date of manufacture, and the unique identifiers on the battery.

First, examine the hoverboard platform itself. The recalled units are specifically the UL-Listed Hovertrax 2.0 brand self-balancing scooters. You can verify this by looking at the front of the device, where the text "Hovertrax 2.0" should be clearly printed. These products feature two wheels positioned at either end of articulated dual platforms. While these hoverboards were sold in a wide variety of colors—including black, blue, green, red, white, rose gold, camouflage, ocean blue, purple, and specific multicolor patterns known as Spectrum, Galaxy, and Carbon—the color alone cannot confirm whether your unit is part of the recall. The critical factor lies within the power source.

The heart of the safety concern is the removable battery pack. You must remove the battery from the hoverboard to inspect it closely. Look for the name "GLW" written in large, prominent letters on the body of the pack itself. This is the primary visual indicator that your unit may be affected. However, seeing the GLW logo is not enough; you must also verify the serial number. On a white sticker located on the top of the battery pack, directly below the barcode, you will find a serial number. The recalled battery packs have serial numbers that begin with the letters "GLW."

Finally, check the manufacturing date range. This recall applies to Hovertrax 2.0 units that were manufactured between September 2016 and August 2017. If your hoverboard falls outside this timeframe, it is likely not part of this specific recall, provided it does not have a GLW battery with the identifying serial number. By cross-referencing the "Hovertrax 2.0" label on the board, the manufacturing date, and the specific GLW branding and serial prefix on the battery sticker, you can confidently determine if your device requires immediate attention.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have determined that you own a recalled Hovertrax 2.0 self-balancing scooter with the specific GLW battery pack, your immediate priority is to secure a safe remedy for the hazard. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has coordinated with Razor USA to provide a clear and accessible path for resolution. You do not need to keep the defective battery pack in your home, nor do you need to dispose of it yourself, which can be dangerous given the fire risk associated with damaged lithium-ion cells. Instead, Razor has established a straightforward replacement program designed to get you back on the road safely without any out-of-pocket expense for the core safety component.

The primary remedy offered in this recall is the provision of a free replacement battery pack. This is not a partial credit or a store discount; it is a complete replacement of the hazardous unit. To initiate this process, you must contact Razor directly. They have set up a dedicated toll-free line for this specific recall, available at 866-467-2967. The customer service representatives are available to assist you from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. When you call, be prepared to provide details about your product, such as the serial number found on the white sticker of the battery pack, to verify that your unit is indeed part of this specific recall batch.

One of the most user-friendly aspects of this remedy is how Razor handles the logistics of returning the dangerous item. You will not need to purchase shipping materials or pay for postage. Razor will send you a prepaid shipping carton specifically designed for you to return the recalled GLW battery pack. This removes the burden from you and ensures that the defective battery is handled by professionals who can dispose of it safely. Once you have received the replacement battery pack, you will need to follow the installation instructions provided by Razor to swap out the old unit for the new one. The new battery pack has been certified as compliant with ANSI/UL Standard 2271, ensuring that the safety standards required for these devices are met.

If you prefer digital communication or wish to review the terms of the recall in greater detail before making a call, you can also access this information online. Visit www.Razor.com and navigate to the CPSC Safety Recalls section. This online portal serves as an additional resource where you can find comprehensive instructions and potentially initiate the return process digitally, depending on their current system capabilities. It is important to remember that while the replacement battery is free, the remedy focuses on replacing the power source, not necessarily the entire hoverboard unit, unless specified otherwise by customer service during your contact. By taking these steps promptly, you ensure that your device remains a fun and safe mode of transportation rather than a potential fire hazard.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a recall notice specifies a fire hazard, the most immediate and serious consequence of ignoring it is the very real possibility that your device will transition from a harmless recreational toy into a dangerous household hazard. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued this recall for Razor’s Hovertrax 2.0 self-balancing scooters because the lithium-ion GLW battery packs installed in these units have been identified as prone to overheating. Lithium-ion batteries are powerful energy sources, but when their internal components fail or degrade, they can enter a state known as thermal runaway. In this scenario, the heat generated by the battery exceeds the rate at which it can dissipate that heat, causing the temperature to rise exponentially and uncontrollably.

If you continue to use or charge a recalled hoverboard with the faulty GLW battery pack, you are risking an event where the device begins to smoke intensely. This is often the first warning sign that the chemical reaction inside the battery has become unstable. However, the situation can escalate rapidly beyond mere smoke. Reports indicate that these specific battery packs have been known to catch fire and, in some cases, explode. A lithium-ion battery fire is not like a typical wood or fabric fire; it burns at extremely high temperatures and can reignite easily because the battery continues to produce its own oxygen as it decomposes. This makes such fires difficult to extinguish with standard household fire extinguishers and poses a severe risk of spreading to nearby furniture, curtains, or other flammable materials in your home.

The data collected by the CPSC underscores that this is not a theoretical risk but a documented reality. There have been more than 20 reports of these specific Hovertrax 2.0 models overheating, with some incidents resulting in actual smoke or fire. While it is reassuring to note that no injuries have been reported to date, the absence of injury does not mean the risk is low. It simply means that in those instances, the fires may have been caught early, or they occurred in situations where no one was present to be harmed. Ignoring the recall relies on luck rather than safety. If you are charging the device overnight, or if it is located near sleeping areas, the potential for catastrophic property damage increases significantly. The battery pack is labeled with "GLW" and a serial number starting with "GLW" on a white sticker; failing to recognize this label and continuing to use the product means you are ignoring a known defect that has already caused dozens of hazardous events.

Beyond the immediate danger of fire, there are secondary consequences. A house fire can destroy irreplaceable family photos, documents, and personal belongings. It can also lead to significant structural damage that requires expensive repairs. Furthermore, if a fire were to cause injury or death, the legal and emotional toll would be devastating. The remedy offered by Razor—a free replacement battery pack—is designed to eliminate these risks entirely. By ignoring the recall, you are effectively choosing to gamble with your home’s safety and your family’s well-being for a problem that has already been solved by the manufacturer. The smartest, safest choice is to remove the hazard from your environment immediately.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a defect in a particular batch of lithium-ion battery packs, the underlying principle applies to all portable electronics that rely on similar power sources. Lithium-ion technology is incredibly efficient and powerful, which is why it powers everything from your smartphone to electric vehicles. However, these batteries contain high-energy densities that require careful management. One of the most effective ways to maintain safety is to avoid extreme temperatures. Just as you wouldn’t leave a laptop on a dashboard in the summer sun, you should never charge hoverboards or similar devices in environments that are excessively hot or cold. High heat can degrade the internal chemistry of the battery, increasing the risk of thermal runaway—a condition where the battery’s temperature rises uncontrollably. Conversely, charging in freezing conditions can cause lithium plating on the anode, which permanently damages the battery and creates a short-circuit hazard.

Another critical aspect of long-term safety is using only the manufacturer-approved chargers. It is tempting to use a generic charger because it fits the plug or costs less, but these devices often lack the sophisticated circuitry needed to regulate voltage and current precisely. When a charger fails to communicate correctly with the device’s battery management system, it may overcharge the cells or fail to stop charging once full. This "trickle charge" phase is particularly dangerous if the battery cannot dissipate the excess heat. Always ensure that the charging cable and brick are in good condition; frayed wires or cracked casings can expose you to electrical shock or create sparks that might ignite nearby materials.

Regular inspection is also a simple but powerful habit. Periodically check your devices for any signs of swelling, which often appears as a bulging screen on phones or a deformed casing on hoverboards. Swelling indicates that gas has built up inside the battery cells, a clear sign that the battery is failing and should be disposed of immediately. Additionally, consider installing a battery-specific fire alarm in your home if you frequently charge multiple devices overnight. Standard smoke detectors may not trigger quickly enough for the small, initial fires that can start within electronics. These proactive steps do not just protect your property; they create a safer environment for your family by reducing the likelihood of electrical fires before they start.

• Keep devices cool: Charge electronics on non-flammable surfaces like tile or concrete, never on beds, couches, or carpets.
• Unplug when full: Do not leave devices plugged in indefinitely. Once charged, disconnect them to prevent overheating.
• Inspect regularly: Look for swelling, leaks, or unusual heat during charging and stop use immediately if detected.