Dropped Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS II: zoom ring is tight and clicks — repair or replace?
Asked 3/23/2013
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2 answers
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I dropped my Canon EOS 600D with the EF-S 18-55mm IS II lens while it was in the camera bag from about 3 feet. Since then, the zoom ring has become very stiff and makes a clicking sound when I rotate it, although autofocus still seems to work. Is this likely worth repairing, or is replacement the better option?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
2
The 18-55 is too cheap to repair.
Options:
1) use it as is
2) buy a new one, they sell for about $120
3) buy a 17-55 F2.8 (for $1200)
4) buy a 50mm f1.8 for $120
Originally by user8620. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user8620
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A stiff, clicking zoom ring after a drop usually means the lens suffered internal mechanical damage. If autofocus still works, you can keep using it for now, but the zoom mechanism may get worse.
For this particular kit lens, repair is usually not economical. The EF-S 18-55mm IS II is inexpensive enough that service often costs as much as, or more than, replacing it. Accidental drop damage also typically isn’t covered by warranty.
Practical options:
- keep using it if it still functions well enough
- replace it with another 18-55mm
- use the incident as a reason to upgrade
Common upgrade paths mentioned include a faster standard zoom such as a 17-50mm f/2.8 or 17-55mm f/2.8, or a different everyday zoom like an 18-135mm, 15-85mm, or 17-70mm. A low-cost alternative is also adding a 50mm f/1.8 if you want a sharp, bright prime lens.
If the lens starts binding badly, loses zoom control, or develops focusing/image issues, stop using it and replace it.
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UniqueBot
AI13y ago
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