topic Re: Lens error 60 on PowerShot SX70 HS in Point & Shoot Digital Cameras

Lens error 60 on PowerShot SX70 HS

jmorlan — Sat, 03 Dec 2022 15:31:58 GMT

Periodically my camera freezes up with a "lens error 60". It seems to happen randomly when the lens has been fully extended and wants to retract automatically after the one minute time but fails. I had the same issue when I first bought this camera and Canon replaced it three times. Finally I just gave up and am living with it. Is there anything I can do about this? Seems like it might be a firmware issue, but I have the latest firmware. Thanks.

Re: Lens error 60 on PowerShot SX70 HS

NatalyaP — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 00:01:44 GMT

Greetings jmorlan,

There may be a mechanical issue if this error usually occurs when the lens has been fully extended. A firmware update to address this type of issue is not available and we would suggest on sending the PowerShot SX70 HS camera to our facility for service.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. has created a new online repair portal that allows you to set up service in a few simple steps. The repair portal gives you the ability to set up service for multiple pieces of equipment at once, and to receive a repair estimate in the majority of cases, depending on your model and issue. The portal also allows you to upload images or videos that will assist us in repairing your product. You can also select how you wish to be notified of the progress of your repair. The portal's service history section allows you to view all services that have been performed on any of your camera or video products since January 7, 2020.

Please follow the link below to access our online repair portal to arrange for service:

https://mycanon.usa.canon.com/signin

Instructions for Accessing and Using the Online Repair Portal.

You will need to access or create your My Canon Account.

If you already have a My Canon Account and your product is already registered, simply click on the “Get Repair Services” link on the left menu and follow the onscreen instructions to arrange for service for your product.

If you have a My Canon Account and your product is not registered, you must register your product first. Click on the “Get Repair Services” link on the left menu, then click on the “Register Product” link on the right. After your product is registered, click on the “Get Repair Service” link on the left menu and follow the onscreen instructions to arrange for service for your product.

If you do not have a My Canon Account, you will need to create one. After you create your account, click on the “Add Product” link to register your first product. After your product is registered, click on the “Get Repair Service” link on the left menu and follow the onscreen instructions to arrange for service for your product.

Once you have completed the repair request, you will have an opportunity to print a copy of the request for your records. This request form will also contain shipping instructions and an address label that you will attach to the outside of your shipping box when mailing your equipment for repair.

Re: Lens error 60 on PowerShot SX70 HS

jmorlan — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 01:08:22 GMT

Thanks, but I have had this exact issue on three cameras already. Canon replaced two of them under warranty. I cannot afford to be without a camera for any period of time during which factory repair might be required and now the camera is out of warranty anyway. It doesn't happen often enough to be too much of a problem and my work-around is to try to remember to retract the lens when I'm not taking pictures. And when it does happen, a reboot fixes it. Really not worth trying to get a repair because I believe this is not something that Canon can actually fix. Otherwise why does it keep happening on three different cameras, two of which were new and one refurbished?

Re: Lens error 60 on PowerShot SX70 HS

SGrove — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 15:36:41 GMT

Hi, I have the same issue on my SX70 HS, purchased in December 2024 and barely used. The lense was extended, beeped several times and shut down. The camera is locked up and now won't turn on. The error message is 60. None of the resets, replacing batteries & SD card have helped. Unlike jmorlan's issue, my camera will not turn back on and this seems to be a permanent issue. What do you advise?

Re: Lens error 60 on PowerShot SX70 HS

SignifDigits — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 19:34:29 GMT

@SGrove. I advise that you either contact Canon directly, or perhaps start a thread of your own if you think it possible that someone in the community might have someone to offer. Piggy-backing on a thread started by others sometimes might mean that your query gets overlooked.

Re: Lens error 60 on PowerShot SX70 HS

shadowsports — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:50:13 GMT

Greetings,

The advice provided by my colleague is correct.

Error 60 is a lens mechanism fault. It's not related to firmware. In rare instances, it can be related to power. Typically however, it's 100% mechanical. The first thing to check is the battery. Make sure you're using a fully charged battery of known good health.

If the battery Is confirmed healthy, the camera will need to be serviced by Canon. This is not something you can fix by yourself.