How long should lenses last?

I have a Tamron 28-200 and now I get the Error 99 nearly every shot due to the blades sticking. I tried setting it on f/22 and hitting the DOF button a few times but it even hangs up and throws the error doing that.

Is it worth sending in and having it fixed or should I use this as an excuse to upgrade. Theres nothing special about the lens it the standard run of the mill Tamron. Its been on about 4 cameras and I have no idea how many shots its had.

If it's the aperture blades sticking as you say (I assume you can see this happening?), you will need to get the lens serviced - cleaning the contacts won't stop the blades sticking inside lens.

Eraser was the 1st thing I tried.

Yeah you can them sticking. Using the DOF button, when it locks up it stays dark in the View finder and it throws the error.

How much does servicing cost?

If you guys were in my position what would you do? I have considered gettin a new lens. Keep in mind I am strictly recreational so i don't have to have the best of the best or even close. I'm trying to keep my cost down.

Option 1:
Get another 28-200 and keep my 19-35 Tokina.
Option 2:
Sell the 19-35 and put the funds towards a 18-200.

Either way service the Tamron and keep it as backup.

I called Tamron, They didn't buy my BS story. I explained the problem and they told me around $98 to fix it. Looks like I'm buying another lens and I get to dissect this one to see if I can fix it.

im sorry to hear about your lens. maybe just pay the 98 dollars to get it fixed. doesnt seem like too high of a price to pay if you like the lens that much. im trying to save up for a 28-200 mm. something more conveniant for me so i dont have to change lenses all of the time. ( kids running around and wont let me take their pic lol.)