EF-S IS 18-55mm Autofocus trouble on EOS 550D

[Mox83]

Having a strange problem with my EF-S IS lens. I bought it secondhand with an EOS 550D body about 5 years ago. Recently had to replace the body due to shutter and mirror failure, but the lens is having trouble autofocusing.

It worked perfectly on the old camera body, but now before every single picture is taken it needs to be switched to manual focus and then switched back for auto to kick in. I don't think it's the sensor in the body, as switching to live view and half pressing the shutter button causes the autofocus to move a few steps out of focus.

I tested the body with my old EF 22-55mm from my EOS-10D, and that works fine on all modes/settings. Strictly an amateur with all this, would appreciate any help.

[NatalyaP]

Greetings Mox83,

If the lens you're using is the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS or the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens, which are the non-STM version, then let's try the following to see if it resolves the auto focus issue.

Mount the lens to the camera body, power on the camera and set the focus switch on the lens from Auto Focus (AF) to Manual Focus (MF). Power off the camera.

With one hand, firmly grab the camera body and lens barrel or grab primarily the lens barrel if you're unable to grasp both. With your other hand, rotate the focus ring towards the front of the lens back and forth from one end to the other. Repeat the rotation process about three times.

Power the camera back on and set the focus switch to AF. Test to see if this has resolved the issue. In case the issue persists, then the next step is to suggest on sending the lens to our facility for service if it is still in service life. Our online repair portal will allow for you to submit a repair request if the lens is still in service life.

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.