Canon EF-S 17-55mm sometimes fails to focus

Hi, I have owned a Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM for probably 10 years. If my memory is correct, I bought it as used, from here. I took pictures with it quite often. I brought it to Antelope Canyon, got too much sand into it, and sent it to Canon for repair. In the past few years, I was too occupied at work that I didn't take any pictures. Now, when I tried to take some pictures with it, I found that the autofocus of this lens sometimes fails to work. The plastic ring becomes sticky and my fingers are stained black. I'd like to get some opinions here:

1. Is it common for this kind of lens to have problems after 10 years?
2. Am I correct in thinking that it doesn't make financial sense to get it repaired anymore? I saw that this kind of lens was sold here at around $400.
3. What if I sell it on eBay as parts only?

Thanks!

colormaniac wrote in post #19478618
Hi, I have owned a Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM for probably 10 years. If my memory is correct, I bought it as used, from here. I took pictures with it quite often. I brought it to Antelope Canyon, got too much sand into it, and sent it to Canon for repair. In the past few years, I was too occupied at work that I didn't take any pictures. Now, when I tried to take some pictures with it, I found that the autofocus of this lens sometimes fails to work. The plastic ring becomes sticky and my fingers are stained black. I'd like to get some opinions here:

1. Is it common for this kind of lens to have problems after 10 years?
2. Am I correct in thinking that it doesn't make financial sense to get it repaired anymore? I saw that this kind of lens was sold here at around $400.
3. What if I sell it on eBay as parts only?

Thanks!

Autofocus not working and sticky ring would appear to be separate issues (but maybe connected). If some of the plastic is coming off on your fingers, my guess, without knowing more, is that the ring has been in contact with a substance containing a solvent. If that has happened, there could be other issues too with the lens.

As for selling it, you are on your own.

Thank you for responding! I appreciate it.

Sorry for my poor presentation. I didn't mean to suggest that the two issues are related, and I don't think so. My question 1 is only about the autofocus problem.

With regard to the plastic being sticky, the lens had been kept in a drawer for years. If the substance that came into contact with it was moisture, it is possible, as the drawer was not moisture-proof. But there has been no other contact. (Sweaty hands from years ago, maybe?)

that's what sometimes happens to rubber as it ages. the rubber can be replaced. did you clean the contacts on your lens and camera?

I would sell as parts on eBay instead of trying to repair it.

ed rader wrote in post #19479098
that's what sometimes happens to rubber as it ages. the rubber can be replaced. did you clean the contacts on your lens and camera?

Oh, I didn't think about cleaning the contacts. But now I just did, and it doesn't help. Still erratic. I'm afraid it's time to give up the lens. Thanks!

TeamSpeed wrote in post #19479101
I would sell as parts on eBay instead of trying to repair it.

Thanks!

"he's dead, jim"

Got it. I'm getting it ready for eBay. Thanks again everyone!