Sony recalls 1.6 million LCD TVs worldwide

TOKYO -- Sony Corp. says it is recalling 1.6 million LCD televisions globally because of a defect that can trigger overheating, smoke and melting parts.

Sony says has received 11 such reports in Japan, though none involved injuries or damage beyond the TVs. The models subject to the recall in Japan are the Bravia KDL-40X5000, KDL-40X5050, KDL-40W5000, KDL-40V5000 and KDL-40V3000.

The defective part -- an inverter transformer used for LCD backlights -- is also used in models sold overseas. But Sony says it has not received reports of similar problems.

U.S. customers with a television model identified above, should contact Sony at their earliest convenience at www.updatemytv.com or toll-free at (888) 868-7389 to schedule a free evaluation, according to Sony's website.

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