New RF70-200 2.8 Making Continuous “Water Running” Noise When Camera Is On

[PNW8870]

Hi everyone,

I recently bought a new Canon lens, and I’ve noticed it’s making a strange noise that none of my other Canon lenses produce. As soon as I power on the camera, the lens emits a continuous sound almost like water running through a pipe. The noise continues even when the camera is idle (on but not focusing or taking pictures).

I've added a few more detail in case they are helpful:

-The noise is present whether in autofocus or manual focus mode.

-It continues in all shooting modes.

-Other lenses on the same camera body do not make this sound. I have the RF100-500 as well.

-The noise starts the moment the camera is switched on and stops only when it’s turned off.

I’ve attached a short video so you can hear exactly what’s happening (turn up volume).

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/LRibhimkiWA

Has anyone else experienced this? I’d appreciate any insight before I contact Canon support or request an exchange.

[shadowsports]

Greetings,

Sometimes if "Continuous AF* is enabled, a lens will make continuous noise while focusing.

However, the sound your lens is making doesn't seem to sound like that.  I'm on a mobile device so I need to check from a desktop.  

Check all of the lens switches and ensure they are properly set.  Are you using any type of button or control ring customizations?

The sound does not sound normal.

When looking through the EVF do you see any image jittering?

If you don't mind can you please tell us what body the lens is connected to?

[PNW8870]

Hi Rick,

I've made sure continuous autofocus is turned off, and I did not notice anything abnormal or jittering through the EVF (used the lens for about an hour). Although I will test this further by tomorrow and report back if any issues. The lens is attached to a Canon R5, and I am not using any customizations.

The noise is louder for about 5 seconds after I auto focus the camera, after which the noise is still present but is a bit softer.

-Brian 

[TomRamsey]

Does it make the same noise if stabilization is turned off?

[ebiggs1]

"I recently bought a new Canon lens, ..."

You just bought this new lens why are you not contacting Canon (1 (800) 652-2666). Any abnormal noise is abnormal. Canon will be able to tell or explain it to you and give you instructions on whether you need to send it in for service.

[_Elizabeth]

I am having the same problem with my new RF 200-800.  I called Canon and they sent a new one...same problem.....so that's 2 lenses with same noise. Ok, so now I tested it with the RF100-400...same noise...tested with my EF100-400II, also makes a noise.  with that lens the noise would be much quieter when IS is turned off. The other lenses, that makes no difference.

I am using R6II...maybe the body has an issue?  I will contact Canon tomorrow

Anyone else having this issue?

[PNW8870]

Yes it does

[PNW8870]

Canon's website directs folks here for product issue related questions. But yes, I see your point and had considered calling prior to posting, however, I wanted to get a pulse from the community on whether this is just normal or not. 

[Menocu]

Did you ever get an answer to this?! I'm finding the same behavior with my R7 using the 100-400L and the 24-105L which both have lens image stabilization. You video demonstrates exactly what I'm hearing.

[SignifDigits]

Ahh, the joys of hearing loss!  My RF 200-800 has apparently been making a similar noise and I've been blissfully unaware.  I have to put my ear against it to hear it, and it's there with our without AF or stabilization on.  I'm not worried about it and not calling Canon as I've had other lenses that have done the same in the past (some a bit louder), but am curious to hear what folks hear from Canon.  I think/hope it's normal - lens is working great for me, and if I'd never seen this thread I would have remained blissfully unaware 🙂