PowerShot SX200 IS flash won't fire

reiganca — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:08:16 GMT

hello!

i recently purchased an old powershot sx200is from ebay, and this camera had an issue with retracting the flash mechanism, though the flash still worked according to the seller. i managed to repair the retraction issue, but the flash does not fire. the flash still pops up & down, and registers when the flash housing is closed (manually) versus when it's open (it shifts from no flash to auto). after a few minutes my camera will shut off with the message "change battery pack," and when the flash is engaged, there's a message that says "charging flash". the batteries that came with this camera are old & likely browned out as they take practically no time to charge at all. i attempted to factory reset my camera but i get a "busy" error, and am unable to do so.

i have purchased a new battery and am awaiting its arrival, but i wanted to get the opinion of someone more experienced with canons than i am. does this sound like a voltage issue or is there maybe some internal damage to the camera?

Re: flash firing issue on powershot sx200is

rs-eos — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 22:22:15 GMT

Are you able to return it to the seller? Though since you already did some repair, that is likely to complicate things (may no longer be returnable).

Personally I wouldn't spend any more money towards it.

Re: flash firing issue on powershot sx200is

reiganca — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 22:31:55 GMT

yes, the seller fortunately is allowing me to return!

Re: flash firing issue on powershot sx200is

rs-eos — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 23:45:08 GMT

Glad to hear!

topic Re: flash firing issue on powershot sx200is in Point & Shoot Digital Cameras

PowerShot SX200 IS flash won't fire

Re: flash firing issue on powershot sx200is

Re: flash firing issue on powershot sx200is

Re: flash firing issue on powershot sx200is