Repair Rates For Camera Lenses: What You Need To Know

Camera lenses are fragile and repairs are often needed, whether due to wear and tear or accidental damage. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the type of damage, the lens brand, warranty status, and the service provider. Minor scratches can cost $50 to $100 to repair, while more complex issues such as mould removal or mechanical problems can cost upwards of $150. Repairing electronic issues can cost $200 to $400, while lens element replacement can be as much as $300 to $600.

Some camera owners choose to repair their lenses themselves, but this is not recommended as it can be difficult and may cause further damage. It is also important to be aware of potential shipping and inspection fees when sending a lens for repair.

Scratches on the lens surface

There are several DIY methods to remove scratches from a camera lens. It is worth noting that these methods may not be suitable for all types of lenses, and there is a risk of further damage. Always check that the method you choose is suitable for your lens type.

One popular method is to use rubbing alcohol. This method requires you to dilute the alcohol with water (one part alcohol to 20 parts water) and then gently rub the solution onto the scratch with a microfiber cloth. This process may need to be repeated several times to remove the scratch completely.

Another option is to use a glass windscreen polish, which can be purchased from an auto-parts store. These polishes are designed to remove scratches from car windscreens, so they can be effective on camera lenses too. It is important to choose a polish with nano-coating protection to add a protective layer to your lens.

Toothpaste is another mildly abrasive substance that can be used to remove scratches. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a cotton swab or microfiber cloth and gently scrub the scratch in a circular motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could damage the lens coating.

For very minor scratches, petroleum jelly or Vaseline can be used to minimise the appearance of scratches. Simply apply a small amount to the lens and gently rub it in with a microfiber cloth. This method will likely need to be repeated as the Vaseline will wear off over time.

Finally, if none of the above methods work, you may need to replace the front element of your lens or send it to the manufacturer for repair. This can be costly, so it is important to weigh your options carefully.

To prevent scratches in the future, consider using a UV filter to protect your lens.

Fungus or mould

Fungus is an organism much like a mushroom. They release spores, which can be thought of as a plant's seeds. Once established, they spread out as they grow in search of more food. They absorb their food by secreting digestive enzymes – acids – which can wreak havoc on a lens's surface by etching into coatings and elements alike.

Fungus comes in a few varieties. Some are very obviously not a good presence in a lens. If there are tendrils, spider's web, hairs or 'roots' on your lens, you've almost certainly got a fungus problem. Other times, it can look like flecks of dust, or a patch of mould like that found on old bread.

Fungus gets into a lens through dust particles in the air. The tiny bit of moisture and nutrients inside the lens is enough to keep it alive and slowly spreading. It makes its way inside when zooming or focusing with the lens when the moving elements create a small vacuum that drags dust and spores inside.

Fungus and mould are usually found in cameras that were stored in humid climates. Cameras purchased from South East Asia and Japan are particularly prone to mould if they were stored outside of a dehumidified cabinet.

To check for fungal growth in the lens, remove the lens from the camera and the front and rear lens caps. Make sure you have plenty of light nearby, and look through both ends of the lens to see if you can spot any fungus growth. If you suspect lens fungus, the lens should be evaluated by a professional lens technician to determine if it can be cleaned.

To prevent the growth of fungus in a camera lens, monitor the moisture and temperature status in your environment. Keep your lenses in cool and dry places. Since fungus thrives in dark and moist areas, storing the lenses properly will help prevent fungus growth. Store your lenses in a see-through or humidity-controlled cabinet with silica gel packets if you are not going to use them for a long time. The silica gel packets absorb moisture, while the see-through container allows light inside that can kill fungus.

To get rid of mould or fungus, you will need to disassemble the lens. Ensure that you have a large, clean working space. Keep everything in the order you took it apart, and don't lose any small screws. When cleaning the elements, be sure not to damage them by rubbing too hard, or using too strong a hydrogen peroxide solution. If the mould is tough, you can dip the elements in the solution for half an hour, but be sure to fully clean the solution off so that it doesn't slowly ruin the lens coatings.

If you’re not comfortable taking on this task, then the best move may be to take your camera or lens in for service.

Mechanical issues

Camera lenses can suffer from a variety of mechanical issues, which can be caused by a range of factors, including being dropped, exposure to liquids or dirt, or simply old age.

Common Mechanical Issues

• Focusing issues: If the lens won't focus properly, it could be due to a number of reasons. It may be that the lens is not properly mounted, or there could be an issue with the autofocus system. Sometimes, the autofocus system may struggle due to dirt on the lens or other minor issues that can be fixed with a simple clean.
• Lens won't extend: If the lens won't extend, only extends partially, or extends and then retracts, the problem could be mechanical. Gently moving the lens barrel around may help to unstick it. You can also try removing and remounting the lens.
• Zoom issues: Zoom issues can be caused by a number of factors, including mechanical problems or issues with the lens software.
• Aperture ring issues: If the aperture ring isn't turning, this could be due to a mechanical problem.
• Physical damage: Physical damage, such as scratches on the lens or cracks in the lens housing, can impact image quality and should be repaired as soon as possible.
• Loose or stiff focus or zoom rings: Focus and zoom rings can become loose or stiff over time, impacting the usability of the lens.
• Lens mount issues: The lens mount is one of the most vulnerable parts of a lens and can easily break if the lens is dropped.
• Internal damage: If a lens is dropped, the internal elements can become misaligned, scratched, or broken.
• Water damage: Water damage can occur if the lens sealing has worn off, or if the lens is exposed to humid environments.

Repair Options

Most mechanical issues with camera lenses can be repaired, but it can be costly. It is recommended to get a price estimate before proceeding with any repairs, as the cost may outweigh the value of the lens or camera. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the lens or camera entirely.

Some common repairs that can be performed on camera lenses include:

• Lens mount replacement
• Focus motor replacement
• Aperture unit replacement
• Zoom mechanism repair
• Lens element replacement

Electronic issues

Camera lenses can suffer from a variety of electronic issues, which can be caused by a range of factors, including heavy use, frequent shipping, and exposure to harsh conditions. While some of these issues can be fixed with simple troubleshooting techniques, others may require specialist equipment and professional repair services.

One common electronic issue is the camera displaying a "lens error" message. This can often be resolved by removing the battery and memory card for a few minutes to reset the device. If the issue persists, it may be due to a faulty connection between the lens and the camera body. This can sometimes be fixed by gently blowing air on the connection points with a small bulb blower, taking care to blow from the inside out, as blowing from the outside in can blow dust particles inside the camera. Oil from fingertips can also cause communication errors, so it is important to avoid touching the connection area with your fingers.

In some cases, electronic issues may be caused by a faulty memory card. Formatting the card before use can help the camera and card communicate correctly. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to try a different memory card or contact the manufacturer for assistance.

If your camera is still under warranty, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer directly for service. For cameras that are no longer under warranty, there are third-party repair shops that offer lens repair services. However, it is important to ensure that the repair centre is trustworthy and authorised by the manufacturer to avoid further damage to your equipment.

Some common electronic repairs for camera lenses include:

• Camera shutter replacement
• Repairing damage from sand or water
• Fixing camera error messages
• Replacing memory cards and bent CF pins
• Replacing the main board
• Repairing or replacing a stuck, broken, or loose focus or zoom ring
• Replacing the lens mount
• Replacing the focus motor
• Stabilizer replacement
• Repairing flash-related issues, such as battery compartment corrosion, shoe mount, or bulb replacement

It is worth noting that repair costs can sometimes be comparable to the cost of a used replacement lens. Additionally, some companies charge a non-refundable repair estimate fee, which can be costly if you decide not to proceed with the repair.

Lens type and brand

Camera lenses are fragile pieces of equipment and repair issues are common. Most damage to lenses can be repaired, but it can be costly. The type of lens and the brand can impact the repair rate and repair costs.

Some common issues with lenses include mechanical problems, such as the zoom not working properly or the aperture ring not turning. Software issues can also occur, resulting in unsharp images or problems with autofocus settings. Damage to the glass elements inside the lens can happen if the lens is dropped, and water damage can occur if the sealing is worn off.

When it comes to specific lens types and brands, here are some examples of repair rates and considerations:

• Canon lenses: Canon offers free inspection and provides an estimate for any necessary repairs. Their repair services cover a wide range of issues, including error messages, impact damage, and water damage. The cost of repairs can vary depending on the complexity and the value of the lens.
• Nikon lenses: Nikon provides repair services through their stores and online booking system. Their average turnaround time for repairs has improved over the years, and they also sell some consumer-replaceable parts on their website.
• Sigma lenses: Sigma has shown a commitment to enhancing its quality assurance program. They offer repairs for issues with their HSM motors and OS units, which have had frequent problems in the past.
• Tamron lenses: Tamron offers a 3-day repair guarantee, demonstrating their dedication to timely service. Their repairs cover issues with focus jams, optics, and zoom functions.
• Sony lenses: Sony has been known to charge a non-refundable repair estimate fee, which has been a point of contention for some customers. They provide repairs for various issues, including scratched elements and broken viewfinders.
• Olympus lenses: Olympus has had some disarray in their repair services, with their average turnaround time being higher than other brands. They offer repairs for issues such as optical failures and broken handles.
• Third-party lenses: It is important to note that third-party lenses, such as those from Rokinon, Bower, and Samyang, may have different repair rates and procedures than first-party lenses.

Overall, the complexity of a lens can impact its repair rate, with zooms and lenses with image stabilization having higher failure rates than prime lenses without stabilization. Additionally, the brand of the lens can also influence the repair rate, with some brands having a reputation for more fragile lenses.

Frequently asked questions