AF stopped working on my Canon 50 f1.4

I hadn't used it for a while and got it out this weekend. I tried it on three different bodies, played around with the MF/AF switch, wiped down the contacts, but still nothing. Can still use it in MF mode, but I'm wondering if the AF motors sometimes just die in these things or might it be something else I didn't check? Thanks.

yeah the AF motors are wacky in the 50 1.4's. ive read many many people have their AF die on that lens

The 50mm is known for having its AF break down. Seems like you got to send it in.

Yet another example of why Canon needs to re-design this lens. The AF isn't true ring USM, and as you've seen, is susceptible to failure. Do a search; there's a lot of examples of this right here on POTN.

I find it a shame that Canon doesn't offer a fast affordable 50mm prime that's durable and doesn't have funky bokeh. They lost a lot of sales to the Sigma 50/1.4, if flickr and POTN are any indication.

it's micro motor.

when mine dies, i'll sell it dirt cheap as a MF lens and buy the sigma. Always have a backup plan!

Join the club:

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Canon's 50mm lenses are chock full of issues. Enough so that I gave up and got the superb 60mm f/2.8 macro. Canon needs to redesign the 50mm f/1.4 with real Ring USM and a much sturdier build. I *want* to buy it for the affordable f/1.4 ability but these issues keep holding me back!

Now I'm getting scared of getting a EF 50 1.4.

Are you &$%^ing kidding me? I literally ordered mine last week....

Oh well, it'll be under warranty long enough for me to check out any issues.

I have heard (I have never owned one) they have AF issues rather frequently. I plan to buy the Sigma 50 1.4... maybe you should look to do the same. Sorry to hear about your lens issue man!

I've had mine for several years. Sent it in once for calibration and cleaning, but that was it. Thankfully no problems here.

After I had my EF 50mm 1.4 repaired, I bought a lens hood for it and leave it on all the time. I don't reverse the hood when storing the lens. I do this to protect the front element which extends when focusing and to prevent any type of impact which could potentially damage the AF/MF mechanism. So far so good. If I had it to do over, I'd probably get the Sigma 50mm, but that lens was not being made when I bought my EF 50 f/1.4.

Happened to me and the Canon repair cost was over 1/2 of what the lens was worth.

yep happened to me last year as well.

I've had my 50mm 1.4 about 6 months and love it -- have had no AF problems at all and it gives me wonderful results...