Canon Estimate For Repair

[dcsmith40D]

My 40D gave me an error code "err 99." It got to the point that it just wouldn't take a picture at all. I ended up calling Canon. They had me try resetting the camera first. When that didn't work the tech told me that I needed to send it to the service center. He further stated that after they received the camera they would give me an estimate to fix it. I sent it UPS. About three days later I got an email with an estimate of $201.40 including shipping back to me. I didn't see an explanation as to what was wrong or what was to be fixed; so I called.

The lady explained that they would not know what was involved until they got into it to take a look. She only said they would bring it back to factory specs and clean and lube it.

What puzzles me is why did I need to ship it to get an estimate if they weren't going to see what was wrong before estimating the repair costs. Should I assume that most any repair is $201.40 shipped? I guess the cost is pretty reasonable. I expected to pay around $300. Now it is finished and in route back to me and I still don't know what was wrong with it.

[gjl711]

They usually they send back a report of what was done and sometimes the parts replaced as well.

[ujculbe]

I sent in my out-of-warranty 70-200 f/2.8 IS lens a few weeks ago, and the minimum labor fee for that lens is around $160. After taxes and shipping, I believe the final total was $192. I believe they have a minimum repair charge, and if, on initial inspection, they feel that the repair will qualify for the minimum repair charge, that's what they quote. That amount must include some allowance for parts. For example, they replaced the IS assembly on my lens, and it was included in this minimum fee.