I could have continue using the lens with manual focus in the Manual or Aperture Priority modes of the camera, but I use a lot that lens, so I decided to give a try to replace the cable by myself.
In my first attempt to fix the lens I ordered only the Flex cable, disassembled the lens, and replaced the broken cable using a soldering iron. But when I reassembled the lens the "error" continued.
In my first attempt to fix the lens I ordered only the Flex cable, disassembled the lens, and replaced the broken cable using a soldering iron. But when I reassembled the lens the "error" continued.
I had the "error 01" showing on the screen of my Canon DSLR camera. The "flex" cable inside the lens breaks after some years of usage. This caused lost of autofocus and in my case the aperture blocked at 5.6.
Get the cable with the diaphragm and DIY
I had to order the cable again, this time with the diaphragm attached and proceed with the reparation again.
To replace the cable with the diaphragm is much easier than replacing just the cable, as you won't need to use the soldering iron.
If you decide to fix it, here is what you'll need:
- Lens Aperture Flex cable Replacement parts for Canon EF 17-85mm
- Precision screwdriver set
- Small tweezers and pliers (use the tweezers to reconnect the cables on their small sockets)
- Table, lamp or torch (the torch of your phone works perfectly)
- Cleaning solution and micro-fibre cloth (in case you touch the glass)
- Video of the lens disassembly (very handy if you can put it on your phone or tablet, follow it step by step)
You'll have to deal with small parts that can break easily, it is a very delicate operation. It can take up to 2 hours the first time. But with a bit of practice can be done in about 20 minutes.
Here some guidelines that can help you to achieve a successful reparation (Proceed at your own risk):
- Start with making space in your desk. You are going to disassemble the lens almost in its totality, you won't believe how many pieces came out.
- Use day light preferably. A lamp or small torch will be very useful too.
- Play the video in your laptop or phone, use replay and pause buttons as much as you need.
- Put the pieces in order of disassembly on your desk.
- Avoid dust and finger prints on the glass, cleaning them is not easy.
- When reassembling, some parts do not find their place with ease, be patient, play with different angles to put the pieces back on place.
Congratulations! Enjoy a few more years with your lens.
But the best if you have success is not the cash you just saved, is the feeling of satisfaction with yourself.
Because the problem on this lens is a design flaw. Canon should be repairing those lens for free, or at least provide a guide with instructions showing how to fix the problem.
