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The words “product recall” and Apple generally don’t generally don’t mix or mingle. However, longstanding and well understood issues with the company’s external back up + wireless hub, a.k.a. Time Capsule, that saw large numbers of the device fail after around 18 months of service have finally spurred it into action.

Apple has issued Knowledge Base Article TS3351 which details symptoms, likely affected units and the steps users need to take in order to get their 2008 Time Capsule either repaired or replaced.

Symptoms

Some Time Capsules sold between approximately February 2008 and June 2008 may not power on or may shut down unexpectedly after starting up.

Products Affected

Time Capsule

Resolution

Affected Time Capsule models
Some Time Capsules with serial numbers in the following range may be affected:

XX807XXXXXX – XX814XXXXXX

How to find the serial number on your Time Capsule.

If your Time Capsule falls within serial number range above and it does not power on or shuts down unexpectedly after starting up, it may be eligible for repair or replacement.

Contact the Apple representative most convenient for you:  

Apple Authorized Service Provider. Find one here.
Apple Retail Store. Set up an appointment with a Genius (available in some countries only).

If you had previously paid for the repair or replacement of an affected Time Capsule, Apple will refund your money — contact them. Further, the company will repair or replace affected Time Capsule units up to three years after the original date of purchase.

That said, although Apple will have the final say, I would suggest insisting on getting a new unit rather than having the old repaired..

via TUAW