Canon E18 Error: Repair Instructions
Welcome to the Canon E18 Error: Repair Instructions Page
Introduction (Added 7/30/06): Having read the hundreds of posts from camera owners with the E18, I have come to the following conclusion. "E18" seems to be a code related to and barrel extension problems. I have broken down these problems into three categories which explain the variety of causes (or lack thereof) and solutions that people have reported. The solutions are referred to in the numbered paragraphs below, and then described in detail afterward. The three categories are:
- Batteries that run out of juice mid-extension. Problems such as these appear to be reset-able through either powering off and on or the A/V cable connection method.
- Physical obstructions preventing the full extension/retraction of the lens. These can include things like dust or sand in the mechanism. As the case (and lens barrel) are by no means impervious to the introduction of foreign matter, even if you are very careful with your camera, contamination is possible. Depending on the size of the obstruction, and how sticky it is, it may be dislodged by blowing air on it or tapping on the camera.
- Mis-alignment of the lens can also cause the E18. The cause of the alignment problem can be either blunt force (dropping) or substantial grime in the mechanism. These types of problems can sometimes be fixed by pushing the mechanism back into alignment, sometimes in combination with a cleaning method.
NOTE: Items 2-3 above may involve large and/or sticky grime that is difficult to impossible to remove from the outside of the camera (by blowing or tapping), and may require that the camera be opened.
Thankfully I haven't encountered the dreaded E18 error with either of my Canon cameras (the A70 and A75), but if you did, I have several pieces of information that can help. Before you try any of the suggestions below, make sure the camera has fresh batteries and that it is in picture taking mode.
First, try hooking your camera up to the TV with the included A/V cable. Rumor has it that this resets the E18 error! (Thanks SLF)
Second, try compressed air. With a fine tip blow off gun and dry compressed air (20 lbs) set the tip between the lens turret and the camera body and turn on the air while moving the tip around the lens. It should remove all sand and dust. Turn the camera on and it should function fine. (Thanks Sprocket)
Third, try the tap method. Tap the padded USB cover part on a hard surface (e.g. a desk). (Thanks Tania, et al)
Fourth, try forcing the lens.
Version #1:
This error occurs when the lens is "stuck" or not extending "straight". The error can happen in 3 ways: either when the lens wont "come out", or "comes out" and then retracts, or does not retract at all. 1) If the lens doesn't extend at all or it extends, but then retracts again, do as follow: Turn the camera off. Place the camera on it's back with the lens facing up and have a look at the "spacing" between the lens and the lens housing. You'll probably notice that the gap is NOT EVEN all the way around. To fix this, simply -VERY GENTLY- press down on the side where the gap is the biggest. You will hear a "click" as it pops back in place. Try powering it back on. 2) If the lens is extended all the time and won't retract at all, do as follow: Turn the camera off. Take the camera in one hand and with the other gently, in turn, take the two part of the lens and gently move it round in a circular movement. Do so with both sections of the lens. You will hear a "click" as it pops back in place. Power the camera on. (Thanks Mike Scher)Version #2:
Pull and twist on the largest ring of the lens while turning the camera on. Listen for a "click". If at first the focus seems to be off, turn the camera on and off and take lots of pictures, close ups and distance. You may find that the focus seems to improve. (Thanks Jeff Kishiyama)
If that doesn't work, there are a few online guides for repairing it yourself. (NOTE: This route is only worth trying if your camera is no longer under warranty!):
IXUS (similar to an Elph) dissection (English)
A70 dissection (Bulgarian)
A70 dissection (Estonian?)
If you have this problem, feel free to post below about how it happened, and what you've done about it.
UPDATE (1/25/05): For those who decide to pursue the dissection route, I found a website with step-by-step photos of the dissection of an A70 (presumably the process would be nearly for the A75 and others in the series). Of course, that the captions are in Bulgarian isn't too helpful.
UPDATE (2/21/05): Based on the popularity of this page, it is obvious to me that this issue affects many people out there. If you could post the following information, I think it would be helpful in getting an idea of just how wide-spread the issue is.
1) Camera model (e.g. A75)
2) When you bought your camera (e.g. June 2003)
3) When or how long after you bought it before the error occurred (e.g. July 2003 or 6 months)
UPDATE (4/18/04): On Canon's website, I found an official explanation of the E18 error:
Error Code "E18" (Lens unit/Lens cover error)When a camera error occurs, an error code like "Exx" will be displayed, where the x's represent numbers.
The "E18" error code indicates an error that involves the lens unit or lens cover. Or it may appear if you apply pressure to the area surrounding the lens while handling the camera.Solution
Check the following when you operate the camera to avoid applying pressure to the lens and surrounding area:
- Hold the camera so that your fingers do not touch the lens unit when you are shooting.
- Make sure the camera is off before you put it back in the case.
If you cannot clear the error code by turning the camera off and then on again, or if the error code is displayed frequently, a camera malfunction may have occurred.
Please contact the retailer where you purchased the camera or the nearest Canon service center.
UPDATE (4/18/04): Due to the MANY comments I've received from Canon customers who have encountered the infamous E18 error, I decided to contact them regarding the problem, seeking an official explanation/response. The email dialog, as it unfolds, will be posted below.
UPDATE (6/23/05): This page keeps getting lots of hits, but on the positive side, many posts are from people who are able to fix their camera themselves. I have added a new link to another foreign language description (with LOTS of pictures of taking apart a Canon Powershot A70.
UPDATE (7/3/05): The law firm of Girard Gibbs & De Bartolomeo LLP is investigating consumer complaints concerning Canon PowerShot digital cameras. Consumers complain that the lens unit of the camera freezes, "E18" appears on the camera's screen, and that the camera ceases to function.
If you've experienced these or similar problems and you are interested in helping us in our investigation, please fill out the form here.
UPDATE (2/21/06): PC World magazine has an article on the E18 problem, Digital Camera Disasters: Will Yours Get Fixed?, and they mentioned my blog!
To: Canon
I run a website that, among other things, evaluates some Canon cameras, and I have gotten A LOT of negative feedback from visitors regarding the "E18" error that seems to affect many Canon "A" and "S" series cameras that are around 10-24 months old.
Many of these visitors have contacted Canon regarding this problem and have had very little success in getting the problem remedied. Those in warranty can usually get theirs fixed, but most who encounter this problem are out of warranty, and have been quotes repair prices in the hundreds of dollars!
It is becoming clear to me that there is an apparent design flaw in these cameras, and I would like an answer from Canon regarding why it's happening and what Canon has done (and will do) to fix the problem both for existing cameras, as well as new models.
To: David
Dear Mr. Wallach,
Thank you for writing to us. We value you as a Canon customer and appreciate the opportunity to assist you.
The E18 error code is a lens error that is generally caused by physical contact with the lens barrel on the camera. The issue is handled via the terms of the one year limited warranty.
I hope that this information is helpful to you. If you require further assistance, please respond at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for choosing Canon.
To: Canon
What exactly do you mean by "physical contact with the lens barrel"?
Why are so many cameras falling prey to this "error"?
To: David
Dear Mr. Wallach,
Thank you for your reply.
We do apologize, but Canon USA does not monitor, confirm, endorse, or attest to the accuracy any information posted on third party websites. It seems many customers are overwhelmed by the barrage of information (or misinformation) being posted on unregulated, non-Canon websites. Unfortunately, this is not something over which Canon has any control. We are able only to confirm the performance of the camera based on our own testing.
For factory service, please forward your digital camera to the Factory Service Center shown below. When shipping your camera, please be sure to remove the CompactFlash card and battery. You are not required to send any accessories or manuals when shipping the camera. Be sure to include your name, street address (no P.O. boxes, please), telephone number, and a letter describing the issue with the product. If it has been less than one year since the camera was purchased, we ask that you also include proof of warranty in the form of a copy of your sales receipt.
As we do not provide RMA numbers for service, we suggest using a trackable and insurable service (i.e. UPS, Federal Express, Priority Mail) to ship your camera. Please package the camera very securely to prevent damage during shipment.
Please send your camera to the following address:
Canon Factory Service
1440 Chase Ave.
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
Telephone: (630) 250-6500
Business hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Central) Monday-Friday
Upon arrival at the Factory Service Center, your camera will be logged in to our repair database and assigned a repair number. Next, the camera will be examined and you will be advised of the findings. If the required repairs are covered by the warranty, the repairs will begin immediately, and you will not be contacted. When the repairs are complete, the camera will be shipped back to you via Federal Express. The length of time for the repair will be dependent upon the nature of the repair and availability of parts, if needed. Usually, warranted repairs are completed within approximately ten to fourteen business days of the camera's arrival at the Factory Service Center.
All decisions regarding warranty coverage are made by the Factory Service Center at the time of repair. If the repair entails something that is not covered in warranty, a written estimate will be sent to you at the address that you have provided. The repairs to your camera will not begin until you approve this estimate and make payment arrangements. If, after receiving the estimate, you do not wish to have the camera repaired, please inform the Factory Service Center of your decision as soon as possible. If you decline the estimate, the camera will be shipped back to you unrepaired.
Once you have confirmed with your shipper that the camera has been delivered, you are more than welcome to contact us for repair updates. Please include your name, address, and telephone number, as well as the serial number of the camera, in all repair status inquiries. If you prefer to check the repair status by phone, please call the Canon Customer Care Center at 1(800)828-4040. Agents are available Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to Midnight ET, and on Saturdays from 10 AM to 8 PM ET. Again, please have the serial number of the camera available when you call.
Please note that our U.S. Factory Service Centers are unable to accept packages from or return equipment to addresses outside the United States.
We hope this information is helpful to you. Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions or concerns.
To: Canon
Wow! I have to say that I am impressed at just how far off you could be! Your response clearly shows that you either do not understand English, or have no interest in addressing the issues I raised.
1) I never asked Canon to "monitor, confirm, endorse, or attest to the accuracy any information posted on third party websites." Rather, I was seeking an "answer" to the MANY complaints that Canon has received directly from customers. The fact that many of your customers have chosen to vent their frustrations on my website is in no way related to this problem.
2) While many customers may be "overwhelmed by the barrage of information (or misinformation) being posted on unregulated, non-Canon websites," as a computer professional, I am quite capable of distinguishing information from misinformation.
3) No where have I indicated that I have experienced the E18 error (or any other problem) with my camera. Rather, I have quite clearly indicated that I am seeking a formal response from Canon regarding an apparent defect in their camera design that is approaching epic proportions. That you spent the vast majority of your response discussing service indicates to me that you would rather send a canned response to an unrelated problem than deal with the issue at hand.
4) Related to #3, above, you NEVER addressed ANY of the content of my last email, specifically the following two questions:
A) What exactly do you mean by "physical contact with the lens barrel"?
B) Why are so many cameras falling prey to this "error"?
The underlying issue here is that a serious "error" is showing up on a large number of cameras, with no clear cause. Even if there is "physical contact with the lens barrel," there is no warning against this in the manual. In fact, there is no warning against contact with the lens barrel, lens unit, or lens cover.
The FAQ on Canon's website states in regard to the E18 error, "If you cannot clear the error code by turning the camera off and then on again, or if the error code is displayed frequently, a camera malfunction may have occurred." I don't know what you mean by "camera malfunction" but it certainly sounds like a defect/design flaw to me.
Dear Mr. Wallach,
Thank you for writing to us. We value you as a Canon customer and appreciate the opportunity to assist you.
This error may occur from a internal issue with the camera and/or if there is impact damage with the camera.
Only the Canon Factory can test the camera internally and determine the
exact issue.
For information regarding the repair options, please contact the Factory Service Center directly by calling (630)250-6500, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 4:30 PM CT.
To: Canon
For all intents and purposes, you still haven't answered my basic question, nor have you responded to the issues raised in my last email. However, you have clarified that it is a Canon problem, in at least some cases. The fact that you described the problem as stemming from an "internal issue with the camera" indicates to me a defect or design flaw. Please clarify exactly what type of "internal issue" you are referring to.
At this point Canon sent me a survey claiming that "At Canon USA, customer service is our number-one priority, and we take great pride in providing you with the best service possible. It is our goal to make your Canon ownership experience enjoyable." Yeah right! For your reading pleasure, I have reproduced the survey (and my answers). I'll let you know if they actually get back to me.
Dear Mr. Wallach,
Thank you for writing to us. We value you as a Canon customer and appreciate the opportunity to assist you.
Regrettably, operational support will not have this type of information. As previously stated, the Canon Factory Service Center will be the only facility able to determine the issue with the camera.
Comments
Hi,
I just encountered the E18 error on my Canon A70 Camera last week : the lens was blocked and I couldn't find any way to close it...
I was going to bring it back to the shop to get it repaired when I read an interesting mail telling that such problem disappeared once the camera was plugged on a TV with the video cable...
I was a bit skeptic... but tried it yesterday evening... and it worked! I did plug my camera on my TV using the Video cable and as soon as I switched the camera on, the zoom unblocked and closed!! The E18 error message simply disappeared
Everything seems to work fine now!
Strange solution, but it worked for me!
Posted by: slf | August 16, 2004 7:59 AM
Hi,
I encountered the e18 Problem the first time in May this year. The lens was blocked for one day. I do not know why, but after after one day, the lens was working again and I did not have problems until the 2nd on august.
Might this be a construction failure?
Posted by: Thomas | August 17, 2004 5:09 AM
I have had my A70 since July 2003, - well July of 2004 I had an error. I didn't know about E18 or any other kind of error. I took about 40 pictures and the camera froze. Then it corrupted all the data on my 256mb card. The lens wouldn't retract and was stuck.
All I did was remove the batteries and card, and let it set for about a hour. Then when I put new batteries in, it worked.
I loved this camera when I bought it last year, but I having second thoughts about getting another Canon? It seems to have focus problems in AUTO mode, many pictues that looked OK in the LCD preview is out of focus when I get them on my computer. I hate deleting what would have been great photos if only in focus.
I'm also getting the purple horizontal lines on the LCD too?
I do believe Canon has a manufaturing defect with this camera.
I still have a old Kodak DC215 (only 1 megapixel) I got back in 1998, and it's built like a rock, and NO problems with it. I've even dropped it on the concrete a couple of times, still works perfectly!
I wish the Canon A70 was built like that!
Posted by: Robert Wolf | September 6, 2004 8:58 PM
Just got today the dreaded [E18] error. The camera wouldn't retract the lense. I'll have to spend €160 to have it repaired :-((
p
Posted by: Paul | September 8, 2004 8:52 AM
Hi! I have this problem too... but i cant get it off... I tried to pulgget te tv cable butt nothing... why? what can i doo?
Posted by: Roberts | September 11, 2004 3:00 PM
I have the same troubleshot... E18 appears on the A70 LCD when I try to Zoom Out or try to Shut Down the device (in Focus Mode). The lens is then blocked and cannot retracts itself and the A70 did not want to shut down. I didn't know about the TV plug key, and I shook the device on the back (as i do usually for a Ketchup bottle) and tried again to Shut Down the A70... And it works... This TroubleShot is still recurrent... And I m waiting jsut before the 2y of my warranty to send it to the Canon Shop !
I love the Pix Quality and the functionality of the A70... But it's not very reliable...
Posted by: Chris | November 10, 2004 5:12 AM
When i plug AV cable in to my A70 and E18 problem was solved! Thank you very much! :-)
Posted by: Denis | November 21, 2004 7:15 AM
E18 error is cause because the lens is not extracted or extended all the way. This is caused by sand or dirt in the lense guide or the gears that drive the lense.
Try compressed air. With a fine tip blow off gun and dry compressed air (20 lbs) set the tip between the lense turret and the camera body and turn on the air while moving the tip around the lense. It should remove all sand and dust. Turn the camera on and it will function fine.
Posted by: Sprocket | December 3, 2004 11:21 PM
I also got the e18 code. my warranty has run out so i thought i was screwed. cannon wanted 196 dollars (u.s.) to fix. i had already sent it back once for it not powering up. So thankfully i came across this board. I tried hookikng it up to the av cables and whatever it did it worked. my camera has had no issues since. needless to say i wont be making any purchases from cannon anymore. thanks a bunch.
Posted by: james | January 2, 2005 11:15 PM
The problem with my Power Shot A75 serial number 9022253162 purchased 11/10/04 occurred when took a picture with the camera and then went to review the picture. It was blurry. When I powered off the camera I noticed the lens was not retracting all the way back into the body of the camera.
At power up several times I received an “E18” message in the bottom left corner on a gray LCD display. When this error doesn’t appear the camera still won’t focus and the lens never goes back into the camera all the way. I am sending it back for service under warranty, but totally disappointed with the reliability of this camera.
Posted by: PCB | January 5, 2005 10:55 AM
I Just successfully fixed this issue on my Camera by blowing 80lbs of air around the opened lens and, body.
Posted by: Rick James | January 10, 2005 2:32 AM
add me to the list of problems with the e18. what bothers me is that canon must know that this is a problem with a design if its happening on all their cameras, i have written to the c.e.o. of canon, doubt i will get a positive reply, and i am going to try the tv thing and also the air, but as the rest i wont be purchasing another canon product due to the poor customer service on something they have to know about. is their a lawyer in the house who would like to consider a class action suit?
Posted by: jjj | January 12, 2005 12:03 PM
I too was dull enough to buy a Canon camera - the S200 Powershot. Recently it showed the E18 error and the lens would not fully extend - leading to automatic retraction after about 10 secs with the E18 error showing in the display. A brand new fully charged battery made no difference. I'll try the TV hookup and the air but I certainly won't be trying Canon again!
Posted by: Gerald Bond | January 15, 2005 5:21 PM
I got the error too, this one with a canon a40, i believe my brother's got the same thing, though his got dropped in water i believe...lol...mine, i guess just took too much abuse. I'll try taking batteries and CF Card out as well as the TV trick afterward and compressed air, if all else fails, I'll probably get an A70, as I have never seen a camera with quality as good as a canon. The E18 error is a risk I can take
Posted by: Mr Yuck | February 6, 2005 5:36 AM
Well, i just got a Canon S1 IS, and so far, its been lovely. My boyfriend recommended Canon to me; he's had his (i can't remember what model) for about 3 years with no problems. I'm hoping that i don't get the infamous E18 error, but, if i do (and its possible, especially considering the huge optical zoom and all), i'm glad i found a forum with SOLUTIONS not just PROBLEMS. Thanks!
Posted by: Allison | February 14, 2005 5:00 PM
toay i got the e18 thing. i was at my local zoo trying to take pictures of all the animals. i took a few pictures then noticed that the zoom was not working properly. it started beeping at me then said e18 on the lcd. unfortunately my mom bought the camera and didnt give the the little tv adapter thing. i tried duster (compressed air) and i have had no luck. i have had problems with this camera since day one. if its not one thing its another...
Posted by: amanda | February 14, 2005 5:51 PM
I just experienced the E18 error (S400) on my honeymoon. We've buying disposable cameras all week. I have to say that I'm more than a little upset with Canon. The camera went to repair about six months ago. When it was returned to me the serial number had very obviously been placed on a different camera body. The camera I received back was heavily used. There were areas that had no paint left. The camera that I sent them was less than a month old. I have to agree with James, I don't think I'll be purchasing any Canon equipment in the future.
Posted by: Jason | March 12, 2005 5:31 PM
I too had the E18 problem, on my A70 - it wiped my card but the error cured itself - that was 3 months ago, and I'm dreading the day the error returns. Thanks for the tips on fixing it - here's hoping I never need them!
Posted by: Simon Rees | March 18, 2005 10:53 AM
Hi,
I've had my Canon Powershot A70 for just under 2 years now, and yesterday I got the E18 code in the corner of the screen.
Took it back to where I bought it (for advice only) and was told the motor had gone and would need either repairing or replacing.
Whilst sitting at my iMac, deciding what to do later that day, I thought I'd try a technique that I use on most mechanical or electrucal items that seem beyond redemption - administering physical shock to unit.
In this instance it took the form of slamminig the camera onto the desk.
To my happy surprise, it cured the problem!
If anyone wants their camera repaired for half the price canon are charging then please post it to me (or try it yourself).
Posted by: Phil Weyman | March 21, 2005 11:26 AM
Just got the E18 error while on a recent trip. The AV cable solution did not work for me. My Canon is hte A70, purchased almost 2 years ago, April of 2003
Posted by: Mary Ann | March 21, 2005 11:58 AM
Just got off the phone with a Canon service rep. Told him about E18. He said he'd take our A60 and replace it with a refurbed A70 for only $160. Sure Thing! I've been a satisfied Canon camera user for years until E18 appeared. We tried the ketchup whack... it worked for a while but regressed. Then, blew around the lens....which helped only for a few minutes. Greatful for this board so we can vent a bit.
Posted by: von & hanna | March 22, 2005 7:22 PM
I bought my camera in june 2004, e18 came in september 2004, about
Posted by: jari | March 23, 2005 9:17 AM
I have an s110 one of the original digital elphs. I have had it for 3+ years and never a problem until I also received the dreaded E18 error. I will try your recommended fix tonight and here hoping it works. Customer service advised 150 to fix or 175 + tax and S/H for a refurbished S440. I rather buy a new s440 for just over 200 and take the 1 year warranty. Cannon makes great products overall if you want to avoid the E18 error go get a Digital rebel or rebel XT. Both are great cameras but are much bigger then the cameras mentioned on this site!
Posted by: Brian | March 23, 2005 4:42 PM
I am owner of a Canon PowerShot A70. Recently It exposed to water while I was diving. It was running. I switched off imediately. Later I disassembled all the parts of the camera. I cleaned all the units and especially lens mechanism by removing all the optics and gears and etc. Now it looks ok, and I checked manually the lens mechanism. Then I replaced all the parts again. Now when I power on it, the lens ejects outside and a periodic sound comes inside the lens, probably focusing attempts. Then LCD shows E18 and system shut down itself. I am sure that the lens mechanism is ok mechanically. Is there any mean this E18? Batteries are ok and I have replaced memory card with the new one. Thanks.
Posted by: Tuncay Ozisik | April 4, 2005 6:21 AM
I recently bought a S400 from a merchant off of Amazon. Right out of the box with a fully charged unit it gave us the E18 error! I'll try the TV hookup tonight but otherwise it's going back. thankfully Amazon has the A-to-Z merchant protection thing going.
funny thing about these cameras is we have 6 Canon's here at work and they've all worked flawlessly. We have 2 - 230's, 2 - 400's and 2 - 410's.
Posted by: crmy | April 4, 2005 5:59 PM
Encountered the problem when try to close the machine under low power charge.
I'll try to plug it to the TV set tonight, hope it will work...
I thought the company should do something to deal with this problem and compensate us for this.
Posted by: winger | April 6, 2005 6:04 AM
Encountered the problem when tried to close the machine under low power charge.
I'll try to plug it to the TV set tonight, hope it will work...
I thought the company should do something to deal with this problem and compensate us for this.
Posted by: winger | April 6, 2005 6:04 AM
I have an A70 that I have had a couple of years now and has served me quite well. I got the E18 error last week and the lens wouldn't extend. I checked with a few Canon dealers about repairs. Most told me it was not worth fixing off-warranty and that it would cost $CAD 200+. Decided to try our own repairs and ripped it apart today. Did not take the lens completely out but used a small screw driver to manually rotate the gear that extends the lens. The gear is visible on the edge of the camera. Rotated the gear till the lens extended. Left it in the out position and put the camera back together. Put the batteries in and behold it worked. Cleaned of the lens casing and it still seems to be working. Not sure if this will be the cure but I may be able to get a few more pictures out of it. My son has the same camera bought at the same time and has taken over 15,000 shots and it is still clicking. I guess they don't owe us much at this point. This may be my excuse to look for something better anyway.
Posted by: Marvin | April 10, 2005 12:52 AM
Our A70 let us down very badly today by dying with an E18 error at my best friend's wedding. I tried two sets of newly-charged batteries and tonight in desperation tried plugging it into the TV with the AV cable. Made no difference. It's only 5 months old! It's always been kept in a case when not used and is in mint condition). I've bought about 7 Canon products (SLRs, video cameras & digital stills) but now that I know how widespread this problem is, and the poor support received, this may be the last. Pity, because I loved the camera.
Posted by: Dingbat | April 10, 2005 10:17 AM
I have a 2year old Canon Ixy 30 and received the E18 while on holiday in London last week!!!! Luckily I could borrow a friends much more reliable Sony Digicam while sightseeing!
Anyway, the lens was stuck out and the TV trick didnt work so just before giving up I blew into the lens a couple of times and then dropped the camera onto a blanket on top of the carpet... wahlah!!!!
The lens retracted and its all good!
thanks for the tips!
Posted by: KC288 | April 11, 2005 9:57 AM
Got the e18 after 10 months on a IXUS500 bought in may 2004. Am about to test the TV-cable trick. Will try to plug the USB too if it doesn't work... Hopefully still under warranty in any case!
Good luck to you E18ed lads!
Posted by: Alexandre | April 13, 2005 11:51 AM
same problem!
I have canon IXY320 from japan.
I got E18 error. out of warranty
will try the DIY fix.
Posted by: pixph | April 14, 2005 12:44 AM
I have had an A70 for 18 months or so now, started with the E18 error after about 11 months (also sometimes randomly get an E25 error too). Read up on the web about it and realised Canon return would be pretty futile. Have had similar experience of disappointment when REALLY wanting to take pictures and it wont work.
Tried a suggested "tap the padded usb cover part on a desk" and the lens works again and the E18 error goes.
More recently it has started to be out of focus when it does open ok (oh yeah and the noise when it opens is worse now - not awful but more audible). A colleague took it apart and blew compressed air in, no difference.
I have today been testing out the timing of my now familiar tap to the left hand side with the firm part of my hand. If, when I switch it on and it starts to make the sound of the lens struggling, I tap it instantly - it comes on in focus and works. This will save me switching it on and off ten times before i can use it in future. If I am too slow, it comes on but out of focus, too quick and i get a black screen with no error message.
I am also getting a replace battery message now even with new batteries so I think I shall be saving for a new camera of a different make. I too was a Canon fan before this camera and was really pleased with it for the first 11 months. I have two colleagues who bought theirs at the same time as me, and they are both just experiencing problems (in the last week).
That's the last Canon purchase I will be making.
Posted by: Tania | April 15, 2005 6:21 AM
I also got the E18 after 17 months on my Canon A70. Already tried new batteries and the TV trick, but no luck for me. I went to the shop and they told me that it will cost 185 euros to fix it. So no Canon Powershot for me anymore.
Posted by: Robin | April 15, 2005 7:55 AM
I too bought a Canon S400 Elph 1-1.2 years ago and now have the E18 error. Canon can fix it for a whopping $253.00 about the price of a new Kodak, Olympus or even a Nikon!!! I have been a Canon supporter for many years.. but this is the end of it.
Posted by: Maggie | April 15, 2005 11:35 AM
I have a Canon S110 for about 3 years now. This infamous error E18 happened to me once before. At that time I used the "tap the padded usb cover part on a desk" trick, and it worked. Recently, I got the error again during a trip to Rio, Brazil. I sent an email to Canon support, and got a reply right away with an offer to fix at about $150/hr or to upgrade to a refurbished camera at $175. I decided to not to upgrade because with a camera with a similar lense mechanism, I am sure I will get the error again in the future.
I ran into this posting, and decided to try the AV cable, and blowing the air suggestions. None of them works for me. For the last attempt, I tried the "tap the padded usb cover part on a desk" trick again, it didn't work for the first time. I then replaced the battery with a newly charged one. This time it worked.
Thanks for the posting. It gave me more things to try, instead of giving up.
Going forward, we will be looking for a new digital camera but we will stay away from the ones with the same lense mechanism.
Posted by: Chung | April 17, 2005 6:04 PM
I have the e18 error after 5 months of use and none of these solutions have worked for me...since it is within one year will this definitley be covered under my warranty?
Posted by: Onna | April 18, 2005 3:40 PM
Onna, if you've only owned the camera for 5 months, it's definitely worth sending in for repair under a warranty claim.
Posted by: $uperman | April 18, 2005 3:51 PM
I purchased my Canon Powershot A-70 in May, 2003. In October, 2003, I started getting an E18 error. It would freeze during use and the code would appear. The problem was intermittent at first, but got progressively worse, until I finally sent it in for warranty repair in March, 2004, when it would no longer power on. I received the camera back two weeks later. Here are the service details from the Canon Repair order: Replaced optical unit, pcbassy main, adjusted, cleaned, and checked all functions. CXB19I67*. It has worked perfectly for the past year, but I am waiting to see the dreaded E18 error again! I have a friend with the same camera with the same problem, but her's is out of warranty. She is going to buy a new NON-Canon camera, because Canon wanted over $100 to repair her A-70! I too love the quality of the photos with this camera, but will NOT buy another Canon camera because of the obvious defect in them.
Posted by: Barbara Bourgeois | April 20, 2005 12:12 PM
I burrowed my mums boyfriends camera and the E18 error message has come up.. i tried everything recomended above to fix this problem and still the error message persists. I am dreading how much this will cost to fix, as i am a unempolyed 16 year old student. In the future i will not buy and recomend that none of my friends or family will buy any of the canon series.
Posted by: Man Of Steel | April 24, 2005 5:14 PM
CALL ATTORNEY JIM SMITH WITH E18 ERRORS. POSSIBLE CLASS ACTION. NO COST TO YOU. 1-877-667-9489
Posted by: HUNTER | April 25, 2005 9:07 PM
I have my friend's Canon A70 which failed during a trip to Europe. Since the camera is out of warranty I'll try to fix using instructions on the web or wait until I go to China. In China I went to the Canon lens repair shop and they fixed my 70-200 F4L lens for US$42. I suppose the price to fix the Canon A70 would be similar.
The comments from the Canon technical support are amazing. Boilerplate type answers really are unhelpful to anyone who can do even a simple on-line google type search.
Posted by: John | April 27, 2005 11:53 PM
I have had endless pleasure using my Canon A70 for about 16 months. I was out taking pictures yesterday, when I heard a beep followed by E18. Many thanks for the suggestions that I found on this page :-> I put in new batteries non rechargeables, I normally use rechargables. Connected to the TV using AV lead - no joy. Tried the ketchup bottle method - no joy. So in the end I tried the ketchup bottle method, using the carpeted floor - and I was not gentle. Then I yanked on the lens. It protested very briefly and it has worked every time since. Hopefully that will be the last time I see E18. Hope that the method I tried helps some other unfortunate owner.
Posted by: HH | April 30, 2005 3:11 PM
After reading all the postings here about the E18 problem it appears that the majority of people who mention a camera model own an A70. Is this model particularly prone to the problem, or did Canon sell a very high number of them compared to their other models? Also, does anyone have any idea about what percentage of Canon cameras have this problem? Just wondering, as I know at of at least a dozen Canon digicams owned by family and friends and none have had an "E18" show up yet.
Posted by: Greg | May 2, 2005 2:49 PM
Got Canon A70 about 14 months ago. First got E18 error when powered up after dormant for a while. Soon after powering up, was saying batteries were low. It tried shutting of and got E18. After replacing batteries, it then started getting E18 more often. Usually a light pressure or tug on lens would make it work. But now has lens stuck out and I can't fix it, so far. Out of warrantee! So maybe going to try the air, the A/V cable, and posisbly dismantle (since it's worthless right now).
Another retractable non-zoom, non-digital camera I have (Olympus muII) is now over 6 years old, and has never had a problem. Why should digitals! Maybe they're simply making them too cheap.
Posted by: Graham Jordan | May 2, 2005 4:34 PM
Had my A70 for nearly 2 years; nice photos. Have been getting E18 for about 9 months now, on power-down and after the lens has retracted, which seems to take place entirely normally. Camera continues to work OK - although I'm having to replace (rechargeable) batteries more often than before, perhaps I need to deep discharge them. I'd really like to know the percentage of A70s with E18; could be just huge numbers sold.
Posted by: Martin Shepherd | May 4, 2005 10:51 AM
I've had my Canon A70 for a little over 2 yrs now, and got my first E18 error last weekend. I thought that maybe it was the batteries, so I re-charged them, and the error went away for the time being.
Just today I tried turning the camera on again though, and E18 returned. After reading online everyone else's tragedy with this problem (which I have now learned is very common, too!), I pretty much gave up hope.
At the top of this page, however, it said something about tapping the USB end on a hard surface...I just tried that and, voila!, the lens retracted. I'm not fully convinced that this has cured the E18 problem, but at least it has for the time being while I can look for a new camera...I suggest everone else trying that, too...I wasn't gentle either, FYI...!
Posted by: Alexis | May 5, 2005 10:15 PM
Well, the trusty old Canon A60 died on me yesterday with the mother of all errors. Just finished taking pictures of the kids, and while turning it off, it stopped retracting halfway, as if the batteries were empty. Yet they were full! The engine still runs (partially) until it jams when powering on/off.
Tried everything, the tapping (which is a natural response..), blowing compressed air, fresh batteries, the AV solution (extended it with plugging in the USB cable), new CF card, still nothing. I'm afraid I'll have to disassemble the camera to clean and lube the lens mechanism. After two years and approx. 4k of photographs I will most probably save up for a digital SLR which wil be more sturdy I hope. Too bad, because I was completely satisfied with the A60 before.
Posted by: Dick | May 6, 2005 7:12 AM
"not really Russian"
Exactly, from url (.bg) You may understand that it is belorussian language :)
Posted by: Anonymous | May 8, 2005 7:06 AM
I bought 2 A70s for work in May 2003 with serial #s only 4 digits apart. One got the E-18 failure after 11 mo. and was repaired under waranty and is still functioning. The second failed (E-18) after about 15 months and I have been hesitant to send it for repair until last month. I called canon and raised concerns about a factory defect and they sent me a shipping label. I just got an invoice from them for $105 for flat rate repair mailed to me. If I want to have it fixed.. I called Canon service center to plead my case for repair under waranty / factory defect, but it fell on deaf ears. I will pay the $$ to get the camera fixed but will not spend another penny on Cannon products. I bought a couple of canon color printers at the same time as the cameras, and only one of those is still working. One took a crap just out of warranty.. Seems like a theme with Cannon. Make stuff work through the warranty period and then collect $$$ on the repairs.. Some one has posted a Lawyers name and number here to contact RE class action law suit.. I am all for that!!
Posted by: Marvin | May 11, 2005 11:54 AM
I have a Canon S400 elf that I bought in Feb 2004. I got my first E18 error a couple of months ago (probably about 2 days after the warranty expired). I have to admit, I had it in my pocket with the lens extended and I think I bumped into something. Anyway, a little slight pressure, and the lens retracted properly and the camera worked fine again - no issues. Today, the error came back (even though there was NO contact to the lens or lens barrel) and it will not clear. When I power the unit up, the lens comes out, but everything is out of focus and the zoom doesn't work. It I tug slightly on the lens, I pops into position, the focus is clear and the zoom works. However, then when powering down, the lens won't retract and I get the E18 code. If I push gently on the lens while the motor is running, it will retract properly, but then I still get the E18. This is not how I want my camera to work, considering were leaving on a month-long European vacation in about 3 weeks and I was planning on using this camera extensively. Bummer.
Posted by: Larry | May 12, 2005 9:53 PM
Actually, .bg stands for Bulgaria, so probably the language on the website that contains a A70 disassemble guide is in the Bulgarian language.
As a matter of fact, I have a Bulgarian girlfriend. I'll ask her to help me with the guide, since I'm a "E18-owner" since 2 days and I have no warrenty.
I'll let you know if it is any good.
Erik Mulder
The Netherlands
Posted by: Erik | May 15, 2005 12:20 PM
I baught a Canon A70 in December 2003, and now (17 months later) I got the E18 error. I guess it dropped one or two times. The error appeared not then but last week.
Tried to start with the E18 Repair Guide, but since this was for an IXUS, I wasn't even able to open the case. :-(
Posted by: Roman | May 17, 2005 11:07 AM
I feel like a bit of a statistic, but............. yup, you guessed it. E18 error on my A400. I tried the av cable thing and...... it actually did work.... kinda. There is clearly something wrong with the camera however as whilst it opens fine now, it needs help closing. Not a massive problem, but it still isn't right!!!
I'll let you guys know if I get it fully sorted, but for now, try the AV cable thing cos it might work for you too!
Posted by: Jimi | May 17, 2005 6:21 PM
Hi, I have the Powershot S50. I bought it early January 2004 and I first experienced the E18 error Mid April 2005. It worked again 3 weeks after for a day and then I received it again that night.
I came upon your site today and tried the third method. It works for now! Thanks!
Posted by: Cindy | May 21, 2005 11:42 PM
I got my new A95 six months ago and just got my first E18. Nothing about it in the owners manual of course. I tried a couple rememdies posted on the web and finally give it a gently wack with the heel of my hand and the lens retracted again. After reading the web literature on E18 I am not encouraged by Canon's response. I will never buy any product of theirs again.
Posted by: Rick Knecht | May 24, 2005 1:37 AM
Dang, I wish I had seen this page sooner.
I bought my powershot A95 in October 2004 and was very happy with it until my son dropped it and it completely stopped working (it wouldn't even turn on!). Assuming it was "user error" (ie. no warranty) I took it apart in the hopes of finding what was wrong with it. Finding nothing I put it back together and got the dreaded e10! Assuming that I had made a mistake putting it back together, I ordered another one which I am now waiting for!!!
... meanwhile, I will try following the instructions to revive this one. I'm either going to end up with two working cameras, one, or none by the time this saga is done.
Mike
Posted by: Mike Scher | May 27, 2005 11:45 AM
I just found this on another page:
E18 quick fix
I'm sure that every1 looking at this right now would love to be able to do a quick fix for the dreaded E18 error. Well, I have fixed mine several time in less time that it takes to take a picture. So here it is: This error occurs when the lens is "stuck" or not extending "straight". The error can happen in 3 ways: either when the lens wont "come out", or "comes out" and then retracts, or does not retract at all. Mine did all of these at one stage or another.
1) If the lens doesn't extend at all or it extends, but then retracts again, do as follow:
Turn the camera off. Place the camera on it's back with the lens facing up and have a look at the "spacing" between the lens and the lens housing. You'll probably notice that the gap is NOT EVEN all the way around. To fix this, simply -VERY GENTLY- press down on the side where the gap is the biggest. You will hear a "click" as it pops back in place. Try powering it back on.
2) If the lens is extended all the time and won't retarct at all, do as follow:
Turn the camera off. Take the camera in one hand and with the other gently, in turn, take the two part of the lens and gently move it round in a cuirclar movement. Do so with both sections of the lens. You will once again hear a little "click" as it pops back in place. Power the camera on.
This has worked for me many times and it seems to happen when the camera has been carried around and possible had a little knock. I hope this is of help to someone else.
Posted by: Mike Scher | May 27, 2005 12:29 PM
Here is another posting from another website (cnet):
Fix your E-18 Error on Canon Cameras
My sister had an E-18 Error Code on her Canon Powershot S500, a Birthday Gift received only 6 weeks before th error code occurred. After Troubleshooting on the internet for Fix-It Websites, I came upon this CNET Forum website.
Her camera was stuck with the lens not retracting. Previous websites suggested trying to snap the lens gently back into place. She would turn the camera on and off while trying to gently turn the lens and pop it back into place. It didn't work when the camera was OFF. She turned it ON, but after five seconds, the error code would come on and shut the camera down. So Finally, she turned the camera ON and within those first five seconds, she turned the lens in all 3 sections until she heard it "SNAP" Into place. She turned the camera off and the lens retracted. Then she Turned it on and the Camera worked like a charm after that!
B. Young, California
Posted by: Mike Scher | May 27, 2005 12:46 PM
I experienced the E18 error on my A75 in late January, after about six months of using the camera without any problems. (I purchased it last June.) It was still under an extended warranty, so I sent it in for repair, and I have used it, but not heavily, since it came back, without problems. I am going on vacation in July and am worried that the camera might be seized by the E18 problem once more. I'm wondering if the repair fixes a flaw for good -- or just resets things, allowing E18 to rear up again. Anyone know?
Posted by: simkhe | May 28, 2005 11:22 PM
I got the E18 error today, on my S100 with the lens stuck in the out position. At first I got the weak battery signal. Am charging the battery now. If this doesn't work I plan to operate on the unit using directions from here :
http://www.ixus-world.de/index.htm?tips/repair_guide/e18_01en.htm
Posted by: JDR | May 30, 2005 9:14 AM
it worked thanks! got the e18 bug yesterday after a day at tokyo disney of all times. after reading through the above, i tried the av cable, no good. i then pushed on one side of the lens (Canon IXY 5.0 bought in Japan). I heard the snap as described by other users and the e18 magically went away. camera is just 6 months old and great except for this problem.
Posted by: phil | June 8, 2005 2:43 AM
Hello,
Went to Paris last weekend with my A70 and guess what got the E18 error. Had to spend the weekend taking pics using a disposable camera. Never ever going to buy anything Canon related again, and I will be advising everyone I know the same now that I see the extent of this issue and how Canon are dealing with this.
Just came across this site now so will try some of the tips before opening the thing up.
I have an A70, purchased in Nov 2003 and it gave E18 in Jun 2005 (19 months operation)
Posted by: Alan O'Leary | June 8, 2005 8:12 AM
I got the e18 error code while on a trip in Europe. The camera (a510) is about 8 weeks old, so it should be stil under warranty. It was fine until the day of my good friend's wedding, what TIMING! I just read this info, just before I brought it back to the store. I was thinking of getting the A520 for the 4.0 MP version.
I did have the trusty S10 for over 4 years and 6 countries in S.E.Asia. It survived being scraped down the Ankor Wat temple steps, but I dropped it one too many times and then decided to replace it with the A510. This is e18 code is a little disappointing though. Didn't realize how common it was. Maybe I should have gotten the FUJI e510 instead.
Posted by: Ray Garces | June 8, 2005 11:01 AM
I have an A60 which is about 16 months old. You guessed it, E18, lens won't retract...I will try some of the suggestions on this page. I have a new A95 too, hopefully it wont happen on that one too.
Posted by: ROL | June 8, 2005 5:59 PM
A physician I'm doing freelance work for showed me his Ixus 400 yesterday. It's only two months old, but shows E18. The lens is stuck halfway out and moves a bit, but neither retracts nor extends completely. He swears there were no impacts or other physical influences. It's still under warranty; if the vendor should refuse to do anything about it, I'll try the steps here, and as a last resort take it apart completely following the instructions I found on another page.
Posted by: Michael Nagel | June 10, 2005 3:14 AM
Powershot A60 bought in june 2003. E18 error two years later.
I disassembled the beast following the photos on the bulgarian (or whatever) site and found a screw that had unscrewed itself and become stuck in the lens mechanism.
I didn't figure out where it came from, so now I have a spare screw as well as a functioning camera.
I didn't discharge the capacitor as they advise you to do so I experienced a nasty electrical shock, not dangerous, but, well... I'll probably think of discharging the next time around :-)
If you have a dead Powershot lying around, we might be able to work out a deal...
Posted by: Finn Jorgensen | June 11, 2005 12:02 PM
I have a Canon S1IS less than a year old with the E18 problem. This is the second camera - the first just would not turn on after about a month of use. I am NOT happy with Canon tech support and am advising all my clients NOT to purchase Canon equipment until their quality control and tech support improves.
Posted by: Lother Harris | June 12, 2005 11:20 AM
i recently went on my honeymoon in europe and the lens on my canon a70 decided to stop retracting and gave me the e18 error. i ended up buying a disposable camera for the rest of the trip. i was about to trash my canon a70 when i got home and decided to yank the lens out as far as i could. it snapped back into place and the problem was fixed.
Posted by: WU | June 12, 2005 1:17 PM
Just wanted to say thanks for this website. I have an A70 purchased just over two years ago, and on 10Jun2005 I received the E18 error with my lense extended. Took it to a local camera shop who said that it would cost $195 to fix. While online, looking at reveiws of other cameras to replace this one, I came across this site. I followed some of the suggestions like tapping on the usb cover, but that didn't help. What did help was to pull and twist on the largest ring of the lens while turning the camera on. I heard and felt a "click" and the camera started working, except now the lens covers don't retract all the way open. They will stay if manually opened. At first, the focus seemed to be off, but after awhile of turning the camera on and off and taking pictures, close ups and distance, the focus seemed to improve. So far so good, but still not to the point where I would trust this camera with trying to capture important moments.
Posted by: Jeff Kishiyama | June 12, 2005 11:22 PM
Well, as you should know, I got the E18 error, and I almost had read the whole thing about it..., I'm just waiting to get home and get it fixed in one way or another...!!, I just love my camara, and I just bought last november and this last weekend it got stuck.....
Posted by: santiago perez d'empaire | June 14, 2005 9:40 AM
Hello,
http://menthol.hit.bg/E18.html is my site, and Babel Fish (http://babelfish.altavista.com/) don't help you to trnaslate the site, because the language isn't Russion. I,m bulgarian and i write the site in Bulgarian for private use, but i see the big interest and i promise to translate all descriptions in english when i have time and little help from somebody with better knowledges in english language.
Posted by: Menthol | June 17, 2005 5:11 AM
Thanks this forum!!
I solved the E18 problem on A60 by manipulating the lense.
My advice of using this camera: "Be patient not to asking the camera to do another job before she finish the previous one." The following is my story.
I had the e18 problem on an A60 for a long time and almost wanted to through it away. I found this forum and tried the "snap" method. I gentally pull in and out the lense when the camera was off (actuall I could only move the lense slightly, do not force to pull the lense too much). For unknown reason, the lense can zoom in and out when it was turned on. I think it had been reset to the exact position.
I was happy and tried to test it by on/off the camera. The lense stuck again. But it was solved after turning off and on again allowing enough time in between. Not long, the lense again stuck due to low battery of my continuous on/off testing. When replaced with new battery, it works fine.
So, I think the lense stuck problem is due to incomplete or overlapped lense movement commands such that the mechanical mechanism stuck. So, I would recommend users be patient waiting the camera finishing a motion before asking her to do another job.
Posted by: James | June 17, 2005 12:08 PM
I have an A70 that got the E18 Error. I tried all of the suggestions. I used compressed air and tried hooking it to the TV with the A/V Cable.
I had first tried the method of tapping the A/V connection end of the unit on a desk. It didn't work the first few times. I actually gave it a little more effort and the lens suddenly closed.
I keep this camera very clean, but it seems that something was jamming the lens. As of the moment, the camera is working again.
Posted by: Scott | June 17, 2005 4:41 PM
M. Mike Scher, your god! I've try everything (tap on usb cover, tv av...) nothings worked. I tried to gently turn the lens while the camera was opening and VOILÀ! Got it worked!
My camera was 2 years old and was very disapointed about it the E18 error (Because beside of that, it worked very well). I'm still disapointed about Canon (with the amount of thread about this error, it's certainly a flaw in design from Canon) but the most important is that my camera work! (And it's my son's birthday today, so I need it!)
Posted by: Marc Lindsay | June 18, 2005 9:20 AM
Well bad news! It worked for about 10 minutes and the pictures taken in this 10 minutes are awfull! The focus seems affected!
There is alose a lose part in the camera. I hear a cliketiclik when i'm shaking the camera.
I think I can give it to my kids so they can play with has a fake camera!
Viva non-canon product!
Posted by: Marc Lindsay | June 18, 2005 9:35 AM
Same here, 2 year old powershot A40 camera, dropped yesterday on a carpet from about one metre height (it was inside a thick padded case) and here I am, reading that the E18 problem seems to plague an awful lot of canon cameras.
I was going to buy a new powershot but to put it bluntly, this got me thinking.
Canon, if you read this: I do not want to take the risk of buying a camera which could pack-up when I need it most. A 2 year lifespan (with a 1 year warranty) is just too short...
Oh well, will keep posted if I ever get it to work again. By the way, the "plug on your TV" trick didn't work for me.
Cheers,
John
Posted by: John | June 21, 2005 7:43 AM
I've recently got the dreaded E18 error on my two-year old S400. Thanks for this web site and the Burgarian website for instructions on how to open it up and fix it for a similar device. Although, the S400 design is a little bit different, the concept is there. And together with luck (for not losing all those screws and breaking the delicate parts) and patience, I was able to fix it the second time around. Yes, it was quite a bit of work, but it's worth it.
Thank you!
Posted by: Truc Phan | June 21, 2005 8:01 PM
Well, good to know this is a common problem. I have my ex's old Canon A60, and it just came up with this error message the other day when I handed the camera to my little sister. It turned on, made a funny noise, went back in, and gave me the E18 error message. Now the lens refuses to go in at all. It was interesting because I work in a camera store and a customer came in asking about the same error message maybe 3 days before this happened! Now at least I have an idea of how to fix my own cameras and what to tell my customers when they start coming in with this problem.
As soon as I can get my hands on the AV cables, I will try that trick! I've also tried resetting my camera. So hopefully cleaning out my lens or the AV trick will work! Thank you so much!
Posted by: Erica | June 22, 2005 1:59 AM
I forgot to add this, I was so mad!
Camera purchased in October or November 2003. Broke last week, Saturday I believe. So 20 months old or so?
Posted by: Erica | June 22, 2005 2:02 AM
I bought my A70 in October 2003. I do not have a E18 error. Instead, the lcd screen goes totally black when in camera mode. Settings are displayed but cannot take any pictures as it is totally black. Pictures taken are totally black. However, in view mode, I am able to view pictures (in lcd) taken and saved earlier in memory card. A person at the camera store suspects that it is CCD error. What is CCD error? A70=Great camera=Disposable.
Posted by: Muhaimi | June 22, 2005 3:03 AM
I got a Canon A60..
Happened b4 at cousin's wedding, thought it was low battery as problem was solved after switching new batteries.. Thought my rechargeable batteries was spoilt then.
Happen again recently, change batteries but did not work. came across this website.. And I used the following to solve the problem.
Off camera
Set to preview mode
turn dial to scenery mode
turn on cammera (keep hitting the padded usb cover while the camera is turning on)
somehow, the camera show the last photo I took then blank out after which, the lens came out, then went back in and the last photo was displayed in the lcd.
The above method works for me twice.
Posted by: Dylan | June 22, 2005 3:27 AM
I have an S400 that wouldn't turn off (lens wouldn't retract) and displayed an E18 error. I was surprised to see when I Google'd +Canon +E18 I found over 6,000 hits. In any case, I'm well out of warranty and will try the various fixes suggested on this page. Thank you for the suggestions.
Posted by: Frustrated in AZ | June 22, 2005 12:34 PM
Hi! When I was taking pictures about a week ago, my Canon PowerShot S30 (bought in Dec 2003) just froze with the lens still extended out. I tried to slide the lens cover (which will make the lens retract to close) but the error message "E18" appeared on the monitor. I tried this several times for several days. I also bought a new battery as I read in your blog that this could be the problem. It was not. I read your blog again today and tried another suggestion: tap the lens. It worked! Thanks a lot, you are a big help! Mars
Posted by: Mars | June 23, 2005 6:54 PM
I got a Canon A60, and got the same problems.
I have tried all of the ways except open it, but all the ways didn't work. When I started giving up, I force the lence out a little bit and open the power again. Suddently, it works! The lence return back and working again! Thank God. Thanks for all your help here! Good luck guys who with this problems. (I notice that when close the cam, the lence pull out a bit then return, so that may cause this problem.)
Posted by: Airpass | June 23, 2005 9:34 PM
THANK YOU for the tip! I knocked my Canon SD200 Digital Elph off my dresser (my fault) and got the E18 error. I followed your advice and it worked!!: "If the lens doesn't extend at all or it extends, but then retracts again, do as follow: Turn the camera off. Place the camera on its back with the lens facing up and have a look at the "spacing" between the lens and the lens housing.You'll probably notice that the gap is NOT EVEN all the way around. To fix this, simply -VERY GENTLY- press down on the side where the gap is the biggest. You will hear a "click" as it pops back in place." It's working now - phew!!
Posted by: Susan | June 23, 2005 11:23 PM
I have an A60 that I bought in very early may 04. about a month ago, it started intermittently E18ing and throwing memory card errors followed by E50. do you think these two might be related?
Posted by: Ben | June 26, 2005 3:02 PM
Aaah!
I have a digital ixus 40 (the s400 in the states, i think).
A perfect camera, couple of months old.
We went on holiday to the canarian islands, and i made some pictures of the airplane before takeoff.
I put the camera away, like i always do: careful. I kept it with me in my pocket.
After landing, i tried to take a picture, and you guessed it: nothing! a canon logo, i hear a short 'click' with the lens, and 'E18' on the screen.
Could this have anything to do with a change in air pressure (for example; after flying in an airplane)?
We are now back in holland, but still nothing. I had hoped the flight back would restore the camera's functions. But nope.
Posted by: Jos | June 27, 2005 12:09 PM
While on vacation, I accidently got my Canon Powershot soaking in melted ice water. When it dried up, I turned it on. The lens extended fully but then did not retract any longer and the dreaded e18 error code appeared.
After reading the recommendations on this website, I banged the camera on the USB side and it worked!! So far, so good. The camera seems to be back in working order. It appears that the tapping suggestion is the first thing you should try before the manual manipulation method.
Thanks everyone!
Posted by: Herbert | July 1, 2005 11:06 PM
hi there, my name is cindy, from holland.
I too faced the dreaded E18 error, but thank you so much for this site, because I tried some of the suggestions, and finally I turned the biggest ring of the lens with some force(which I wouldn't have had the guts to do if hadn't read this info) and it turned and 'popped'and went right back to normal. thanks you SO much, I don't have much money and saved up very long for this camera, and now I can use it again!!!
Posted by: cindy de quant | July 2, 2005 1:53 PM
I bought an Ixus 500 at Christmas 2004. Six months old and the dreaded E18 message.
Will try Canon Custoemr service under warranty, but looking at the scale of this issue, I will be very cautious about buying Canon products again.,
Posted by: Lee | July 3, 2005 9:44 AM
Help me I have this E18 error in the middle of exam presentation and overseas trip ... brrrrr.
Bless yu all the e18 clup of hopers-
take care
peter t
Rep of Trinidad & Tobago , Caribbean
mon 4july05-0445hrs
Posted by: peter T | July 4, 2005 5:07 AM
I have a A70 and got the damn E18 error recently. After I read some posts online, I tried all these methods. Nothing happened. Finally I push the lens while turing the carmera on. After I remove the pressure, the lense extended automatically to the full length. No E18 message. But still the lence can't retract back to the body. Anyway, it can work with zoom control. It is said a bolt in the body loose and block the lence to get back. It is exactly a design mistake. CANON should recall all these cameras!
Posted by: J | July 4, 2005 12:35 PM
what is with Canon? I thought they were supposed to be a good company.<