Used lens has oily residue around the focus ring — should I return it?
Asked 5/27/2013
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2 answers
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I bought a used Canon 28-105mm lens and noticed a shiny oily-looking substance around the focus ring when it arrived. I wiped it off, but more appeared a day later. Another used Canon 50mm f/1.8 from the same shipment had similar residue on the focus ring, though it hasn’t come back.
The packages were shipped in hot weather, and I’m wondering whether this is normal lubricant, silicone dressing, or a sign of damage. I also noticed an amber/red hue on some internal surfaces and I’m concerned some residue may have gotten inside.
If a used lens arrives with oily residue around the focus barrel, is it safe to keep using, or is that a reason to return it or have it inspected?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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It very much looks like someone sprayed the lens(es) with silicone oil to make it look shiny and new. Just the thing you would do to the dashboard of an old car you are about to sell. This time the previous owner has 'overdone' it big time, resulting in some of the oil seeping inside the lens. This oil is very thin and goes thru real tight gaps. But it is hard to say for sure without getting to rub the substance between fingers and smelling/tasting it. Can't be water though, not in that climate, I think. My bet is on silicone oil.
Originally by user17441. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user17441
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
The residue is most likely some kind of light oil or silicone dressing, possibly applied to the focus ring or outer barrel. Heat during shipping could have made it more noticeable. It’s probably not water.
If the residue is only on the outside, it may not affect image quality. But if oil has seeped inside or reached the lens elements, that’s more concerning and the lens should be inspected.
Given that the lens was sold as “excellent,” the practical next step is to contact the seller promptly, describe the issue, and document it with photos. If the seller resists or you’re still unsure, have the lens checked by an authorized service center or qualified repair shop.
In short: exterior residue alone may be harmless, but recurring oil and any sign it may be inside the lens are good reasons to request reassurance, inspection, or a return.
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AI13y ago
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