Liebherr Freestanding 30-Inch Bottom Freezer Refrigerator recall — 2010, expanded 2011. Liebherr-Hausgeraete Lienz GmbH of Austria, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, announced an original recall in September 2010 covering approximately 8,000 Liebherr Freestanding 30-inch wide bottom freezer refrigerators, then expanded the recall in 2011 after additional incident reports. The recall covered freestanding (non-built-in) units, distinct from the separate Built-In 30-inch recall.
Hazard
The same screw locking device defect identified in the built-in models also affects the freestanding 30-inch line. The door hinge pin can work loose, allowing the door to detach from the appliance and fall onto anyone standing in front of it. Liebherr received 16 additional reports of doors detaching after the initial recall, including two reports of consumer injuries (bruising and strains).
Affected models
Freestanding 30-inch wide Liebherr bottom freezer refrigerators sold under the freestanding model designation. The freestanding line is distinct from the built-in C/CI series covered by the separate 2011 built-in recall.
Sale period and price
- Sold at: Appliance and specialty retailers nationwide
- Sold from: February 2004 through July 2009
- Price range: previously sold from $3,500
- Total units: approximately 8,000 in the United States (original recall)
- Made in: Austria
What to do
- Inspect the top of the refrigerator door immediately for a popped or loose hinge pin
- Contact Liebherr at (877) 337-2653 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT to schedule a free in-home repair
- If the hinge has not become loose and the door is functioning properly, you may continue using the refrigerator until repair — but schedule promptly because the failure can develop without warning
- If the hinge feels loose at any point, stop using the refrigerator immediately and call Liebherr the same day
Urgency level
High for affected freestanding 30-inch units. This recall is documented by the CPSC and produced two confirmed consumer injuries during the expansion period. Owners of freestanding Liebherr 30-inch bottom freezer refrigerators sold between February 2004 and July 2009 should confirm whether their unit is included and schedule the free in-home repair immediately.