Canon EF-S lens 18-55mm autofocus issue, Err-99, troubleshooting help please!?

Question

Hi guys,

I'll try to be as specific with this as I can:

Yesterday I started receiving the err-99 on my canon digital rebel xti.

My autofocus does not work. I hold down the shutter button half way, and it does not focus. I hold it down all the way, and it does not shoot the picture. I change the focus settings to manual, and the picture comes out extremely dark, even when using flash. My shutter speed and aperture settings are all normal.

The lens I was using was the stock 18-55mm lens included in the kit. Immediately i tried shooting with another lens, which worked fine, isolating the problem to this specific lens.

I started adjusting the zoom, and noticed that the aperture blades that widen and narrow the "iris" (sorry for the lack of terminology,) did not move. I also heard a distinct clicking when i did this, leading me to believe this problem is located in the aperture blades.

Any ideas what I can do? thanks for your time.

-Mike

Answer 1

Yes, you will find the answer from Canon,  (800) OK-CANON

They will help you

Answer 2

I would call Canon and ask them what to do.  They have good customer service.

Answer 3

http://exploded.awcr.org/30D+err+99

Answer 4

You need to clean the contacts between the camera and the lens.  Your camera is having trouble controlling the lens which is why it cannot focus, or stop down the aperature.  If that does not work, take it to a professional.  They might be able to fix it.  I had that problem.  Cleaning it good with alcohol worked for me.