My Nikkor 70-300 AF-S VR Zoom vibrates and makes a grinding noise when on auto focus mode on my Nikon D 80. Has anyone experienced this and how was it fixed? PicturePete.
Sounds like the standard AF-S focus motor malfunction. Doesn’t happen often but sometimes an issue. If still under warranty, give Nikon a call. If not, can still check with Nikon to see whether repair or buying used is the best course. Had this happen to a friend, different AF-S lens, and she bought a refurbished lens rather than repair.
Had 3 AF-s motors replaced over the years. Two I paid for, around $350 each. The last was under warranty.
The first 2 just quit, but the last was exactly what you described.
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Thanks PhotomanTom. That sounds like my problem. That is kind of an exspensive fix that seems likely to occur again. I have always been a Nikon fan but this isn’t helping my loyalty. Picture Pete
Welll... I wouldn’t say it’s “likely” to occur again rather a low probability that it would occur again. Nikon, and other manufacturers, designed these focus motors to give us faster focusing lenses. That’s the good part! You know the bad part! I was always satisfied with the older “D” autofocus lenses that did focus slightly slower but we’re built to last. I still use some after 15 years with no end in sight.
Great info. This site is already paying dividends
I have that exact lens. It definitely sounds like it needs to go to Nikon for repair. I've had mine for over seven years but have not used it that much.
PicturePete wrote:
My Nikkor 70-300 AF-S VR Zoom vibrates and makes a grinding noise when on auto focus mode on my Nikon D 80. Has anyone experienced this and how was it fixed? PicturePete.
As I write this my 6 year old 70-200 VR II is winging (actually wheeling) its way to Melville.... Lens gets used a LOT .... If you care I can report the estimate when I receive it...
That would be great. I have been to Nikon in Melville to have someone else’s camera repaired. The technicians know what they are doing there
I had a new Nikon 24-120 lens that would "chatter" and jump in auto focus. I thought it was normal and lived with it losing a lot of pictures in the meantime. When I had it looked at, after it was out of warranty, it was a repair issue. Cost me $2-300, I think.
Thanks, that sounds like the problem I have
PicturePete wrote:
That would be great. I have been to Nikon in Melville to have someone else’s camera repaired. The technicians know what they are doing there
Received an estimate and I approved it. $653.00 (tax and shipping included)... Base repair was $600. Dropped a lens a few years ago (24-70 2.8) and it cost $600 to fix as well. I guess that's the standard "rebuild" price. Good luck on your decision.
FYI.... Got the lens back....Repaired.... Final Bill $355.77 ... A RARE occasion when the final bill is LESS than the estimate. Just wanted to update you since apparently the ESTIMATE is NOT always a) correct and b) $600.
Anyway... FYI... and Good luck with YOUR repair.
Great, thanks. Motor was replaced?
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