Pop up flash not working

[matelotmark]

EOS 500D (Rebel). When I try to select built in flash, I get the error message saying not available - external flash attached, when there is no external flash attached.  The external flash works fine. Can anyone help please?

[MikeSowsun]

There is a small microswitch sensor under the hot shoe rails which senses when a flash is attached. It is there to prevent the built-in flash from popping up when an external flash is attached. It must be sticking or malfunctioning. 

You could try try cleaning the  Hotshoe rails. 

[matelotmark]

Fixed! The micro switch was indeed stuck and I’d never have known it was there, it hidden under the plate spring where it is.

I’m very grateful for the help. Thanks

[Maineman]

Hi Mike,

New here and didn't find a way to post a question. Can you post here and let me know?

Thanks,

Tom

[jrhoffman75]

Each section has a button like this:

[Maineman]

Thanks John