Nikon Europe has issued a notice after it received ‘inquiries’ from customers indicating that when a fully charged EN-EL5 Li-ion battery is used with the D500, the maximum number of shots possible is ‘low’.

While Nikon points out that the EN-EL15 battery supplied with the D500 delivers the stated battery life, some of those bought separately, or ones supplied with another model, ‘may not be capable of the maximum number of shots possible’ as indicated in D500 documentation.

Nikon explains that the problem affects only batteries made before the EN-EL15 units were modified three years ago, and only those used in the D500 model.

Nikon adds: ‘All D500 cameras are supplied with the modified battery, and both modified and pre-modification EN-EL15 batteries can be safely used with the camera.

‘However, if you have purchased a D500 and also own pre-modification EN-EL15 batteries – perhaps supplied with another model camera or purchased separately –  you may request replacement of those batteries with modified batteries.’

Nikon has pledged to replace the batteries free of charge.

To find out which batteries are eligible for replacement, visit the Nikon Europe Suppprt Centre.

Nikon Support Centre statement

Thank you for choosing Nikon for your photographic needs.

We are receiving inquiries indicating that when a fully charged Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15 is used with the Nikon D500 digital SLR camera, the maximum number of shots possible is low (battery life is short). We are also receiving inquiries indicating that the amount of charge remaining displayed by the D500’s Battery info option is significantly less than that displayed by the battery info function of another model of camera.

EN-EL15 batteries supplied with the D500 have been tested in accordance with CIPA standards, and do support the maximum number of shots possible (battery life) indicated in brochures and other documentation. However, when some EN-EL15 batteries purchased separately, or supplied with another model of camera, are used with the D500, those batteries may not be capable of the maximum number of shots possible (battery life) indicated in D500 documentation.

In the summer of 2013, we modified the electric discharge characteristics of our EN-EL15 rechargeable battery without changing its capacity.
When pre-modification EN-EL15 batteries are used with the D500, the maximum number of shots possible (battery life) is reduced. This does not occur with cameras other than the D500.

All D500 cameras are supplied with the modified battery, and both modified and pre-modification EN-EL15 batteries can be safely used with the camera. However, if you have purchased a D500 and also own pre-modification EN-EL15 batteries – perhaps supplied with another model camera or purchased separately –  you may request replacement of those batteries with modified batteries. Nikon will replace the batteries free of charge.

* The maximum number of shots possible (battery life) with, and the remaining charge displayed for, a particular battery may differ slightly by camera model due to the fact that the amount of power consumed and the systems used to display remaining charge differ with each model of digital camera.

Identifying eligible batteries
EN-EL15 rechargeable Li-ion batteries with “Li-ion01” printed on the back of the battery are eligible for replacement.
EN-EL15 batteries with “Li-ion20” printed on the back of the battery are the same post-modification batteries as those supplied with the D500, and do not require replacement.

Requesting battery exchange
If you have purchased a D500 and own EN-EL15 batteries that are eligible for replacement, please consult your nearest Nikon Service Centre. We will replace your battery or batteries with the same post-modification batteries as those supplied with the D500.

Steps to replace your battery:
1.     Check that your battery is type “Li-ion01” as described above.
2.     Ensure your battery does not exceed 30% charge capacity.
3.     Include the following information with your battery.
These details are required for a replacement battery to be provided.
a. Your name, postal address and phone number.
b. Your D500 proof of purchase (sales receipt).
4.     Pack your battery. The battery contacts should be covered to prevent short circuit.
5.     Post your package to the nearest main Nikon Service Centre.
You should expect a replacement battery in the post within 2 weeks of receipt.

There are transportation guidelines concerning batteries. Services differ between transportation companies so we recommend you check with your courier company before returning your battery.

For more information regarding this matter, contact the Nikon Customer Support.

Once again, thank you for choosing Nikon for your photographic needs.