The 'error 99' message appears on the screen when you depress the shutter and I believe that it is a 'catch all' message for a failure of the electronic interface between the body and the lens. The error code is not shown in the troubleshooting guide in the handbook and originally Canon denied that such a message existed.

If you Google it you will see that many people have had the problem over the years and there are just as many suggestions as to how you can correct it. Suffice to say that when it happened to me at the Grand Canyon I could have cried when I couldn't clear it.

I tried the eraser trick and the alcahol wipes but to no avail. I did get attached to the 60D during the rest of our trip so I am currently thinking that maybe I will keep the 40D as a standby.

What to do about the packaged lens? It is a 18-135 IS. I already have a 17-85 IS USM and I am not convinced I need both.

I keep thinking I shall never be happy with my kit. By the way I play golf as well and that is just as bad; always thinking the latest technolgy will make me a better player!

Yes thanks for your reply. I had my laptop with me and tried everything that was suggested. I ended taking it a very good Canon dealership in Monterey and we tried all the options with new bits/ lenses etc. We cleaned everthing in sight but no luck. I suppose I am now worried that it will happen again with the repaired 40D or possibly with the 60D should I keep it.

I originally posted this question on the New Member section but it may be better here.
Following an error 99 on my 40D while on vacation in SW USA I purchased a new 60D and 18-135 IS lens combo. On my return to the UK and with a repair cost of £156 for the 40D I am not sure whether to sell the 60D and hope that the 40D error does not happen again. It only had 1800 actuations. Does the 60D have the same error 99 issues?

What would other Canon owners suggest?

Thanks for your thoughts. I do like the 60D it has a few advantages over the 40D but it doesn't feel as robust. The movie capability is a bit wasted on me as is the moveable screen. I always prefer the eyepiece.
I tend to hoard my camera equipment which doesn't help the bank account!

Hi everyone. I have been reading many of the entries for a little while with much interest and now have a dilemma which some of you may have had to contend with.
During a 3 week trip to SW USA my 40D had the dreaded error 99 code. After trying everything including a session with a Canon dealer in Monterey, I had to give up. I then purchased a 60D with a 18-135 IS lens. I was very pleased with the results. On my return I have sent the 40D back to Canon.

I am not sure that on my budget I can keep both cameras, so which one do I choose. Failing that which do Canon buffs think is the better lens- the 18-135 IS or my existing 17-85 IS USM.

I have attached 2 pics- The Grand Canyon HDR with 40D and Endeavour being flown over San Fransisco taken from the bay with the 60D, for interest.

Endeavour over SF Bay


Grand Canyon HDR