So, my (t)rusty old 350D blocks with err 99. It doesn't err without flash card or lens, cleaned the lens contacts for both camera and EFS 17-85 IS USM, to no avail. Anything else I can try?
Do you have a cylinder to correct astigmatism? I do, and it can cause quite a barrel distortion, but you'll get used to it. I'm now wearing contacts, where the issue is less obvious.