Computer maker Dell Inc. is voluntarily recalling 4.1 million lithium batteries used in its notebook computers because of the danger they could overheat, possibly causing a fire, the company said Monday.

The batteries, which were manufactured by Sony but carry the Dell brand, were sold with notebook computers from April 2004 through July 2006. Some of the recalled batteries also were sold individually as replacements, Dell said in a statement.

"Under rare conditions, it is possible for these batteries to overheat, which could cause a risk of fire," the statement said.

Dell models that are part of the recall include Latitude, Inspiron, Precision and XPS. The company has set up a toll-free hotline (1-866-342-0011) and a Web site (www.dellbatteryprogram.com) where customers can determine if their batteries are subject to the recall.