Onboard flash intermittent fault

[Adow2]

Hi,

I'm after a little advice......

I have a Canon EOS 400d and the onboard flash sticks intermittently. I searched the Internet and there is a lot of advice.... Articles/threads saying it will be down to the micro switch underneath the hotshoe which stops the flash popping up when you have a flash attached. I have followed these tips and the switch doesn't appear to be stuck. I have also cleaned the flash's opening mechanism which resolved the issue happening all the time. Now it happens the once when I initially switch the camera on, it clicks three times before an error message appears. If I assist it it then opens the majority of the time until the camera is switched off. I have made sure the firmware is up to date according to Canon, and I have also fully reset the camera. I have taken it in to a repair shop, who have quoted me £85+VAT, said it will just be down to corrosion.

1/ Could this be the case, and therefore worth paying the price to resolve the matter (not sure what the repair involves with this quote, whether it's replacement parts or a thorough service and clean)?

2/ Is there anything else I should try before coughing my hard earned cash?

Thanks in advance of any help anyone can give, much appreciated!

Alan

 

[MDB2]

Hi, I would test the camera with a canon flash mounted, and see if all is well, if so I don't think I would pay for a repair but instead put the money towards buying an EX 430 mk2 or the EX270 mk2 if your on a budget. Regards. Mike.

 

[stevebuk]

This is probably just some gunk near the mechanism. Theres also a flange from back to front. Wipe it with a soft cloth with a little light oil / lubricant. Should fix it.

 

[Adow2]

Cheers guys!

I have a 380ex speedlite which works fine, the actual flash works fine too apart from it not popping up intermittently. The 270ex looks quite a compact unit. If it goes completely I may opt to buy one of the instead.

I have tried cleaning it but a little scared about putting too much lubricant on it. May have another go at cleaning it especially the flange around it.

Thanks for the advice.

Alan