EF-S 55-250mm focusing issue on a Rebel XS

[nellestefania]

Hi - I'm not super lingo-versed, so I apologize if this doesn't make sense. I purchased a refurbished EF-S 55-250mm for my Rebel XS (she's an oldie). I'm noticing that I cannot focus the lens unless I'm zoomed in/the lens is extended. Is that correct? I was looking for tips online and saw a mention about updating my driver, but it's no longer available on the Canon site. So clearly, I'm at a loss. I really appreciate any help you can provide. 

[Anonymous]

I would send it back for repair or replacement. It should focus at all zoom levels.

[shadowsports]

Greetings,

"I purchased a refurbished EF-S 55-250mm"  

Where was this lens purchased from?

[nellestefania]

From Canon's refurbished site! 

[Stephen]

Can you tell us more about your shooting environment? What are you trying to take photos of? Are you inside or outside? How is the lighting? What does your camera display when you *can't* take a photo?

And lastly - which version of the firmware does your XS have?

[Waddizzle]

What are you trying to focus on?  It amost sounds like it could too close to the lens and/or not enough light for the AF system to focus.  Test the lens outdoor on a sunny day.

Look at the front of the lens.  You should see a distance printed or stamped on it.  That distance is the MFD, Minimum Focus Distance.  It only holds true at the shortest zoom focal length.  As you increase the focal length the MFD will increase by some amount manufacturers do not always specify.

[Waddizzle]

One last thing.  Check the setting of the AF/MF switch on the lens.  The Canon Online Refurbished Store has an excellent reputation for selling high quality, fully tested gear.

[Stephen · Accepted solution]

The Rebel XS had a weird firmware bug, and it looked like it wasn't focusing the dot in the viewfinder would light up green but it wouldn't take a picture. If it's doing that, and you're not on Firmware 1.0.7 or higher, it could be that bug. Canon Japan seems to have removed access to the firmware, so if that's not the version the camera is on, and it's doing that, it may be time to upgrade. 

[nellestefania]

Thanks! I missed your earlier reply, so to respond to everything:

Can you tell us more about your shooting environment?

• First I was inside, then I moved outside in my yard during the day

What are you trying to take photos of? Are you inside or out?

• Originally my cat for close distance, then I moved out and was taking pictures of the trees and items around my yard. 

How is the lighting? What does your camera display when you *can't* take a photo?

• lighting and everything is good! My camera displays everything as fine, but the photo is not in focus, and I can't press the shutter button

And lastly - which version of the firmware does your XS have?

• 1.0.7 - I have this version, but I am experiencing the abovementioned issue. I also will share that when I turn on the camera, there's a strange mechanical sound like the wheels are turning but getting jammed for a few seconds

[Anonymous]

Sounds like the lens needs to be returned for repair or replacement. I am assuming that other lens work correctly on your camera.