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General discussion

Canon S400 Problems

Nov 26, 2004 5:04AM PST

I purchased a Canon S400 camera for roughly $500 a little over a year ago. The camera recently stopped working for no apparent reason due to an E18 error (lens focus mechanism). The camera was not mis-handled. The warranty is 1 year. The service center indicated it would cost me $150 to inspect and repair this problem. Alternatively, they offered me a refurbished replacement at an even higher cost! Apparently, the E18 error related to the focus mechanism is common and part of a fault design. Needless to say, I communicated with Canon service reps that their repair/replacement options were not acceptable and asked for an exception to replace or repair the camera for free. I also asked Canon to describe their customer dispute resolution process. They could not.
After speaking with their customer service organization all the way up to senior management and corresponding with their tech service via email, it has become evident that Canon really doesn't stand behind their faulty products and is not customer service oriented. The entire experience was a long process of "passing the buck?. I am extremely disappointed and will never buy a Canon product again. I recommend you do not buy a Canon either.
Has anyone else had this problem?

Discussion is locked

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Read the thread before replying
May 28, 2005 4:46AM PDT

Apparently you didn't read the replys to the original post or you would know about Canon and the E18 problems. I suggest you go back read the complete thread before making such as remark as ''but I'm sure there is more to it that what you told''. I'm happy that you haven't had any problems in three years but it doesn't mean someone else hasn't had a problem that wasn't their fault.

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I did read the thread Bill.
Jun 18, 2005 1:21AM PDT

I read the entire thread. I'm sure most of the buyers were also offered the opportunity to buy extended warranties when they made the purchase. When buying small expensive items it's always wiser to take the warranty as repairs sometime exceed the cost of buying a new one. I also know that there are countless numbers of individuals who never even open the manual to read the instructions and who misuse and abuse the products they own. Most warranties last one year and after that you're on your own. I think it takes some nerve to contact a company after you warranty exprires and DEMAND service for a product which failed to operate. Pay up or shut up, or just buy a different brand next time. Money talks BS walks.