Digital Camera Disasters: Will Yours Get Fixed?

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Another camera problem hits a range of cameras that were manufactured between 2002 and 2004 in locales with heavy heat and humidity. Defective image sensors can malfunction, causing the unit to produce badly distorted or discolored photos. Konica Minolta's Web site has samples of pictures taken with defective sensors.

If your camera has or develops this problem, manufacturers generally provide free repairs, even if the warranty has expired. However, some companies set an end date for repair. Sony, for example, will provide free repairs on the CCD problem until October 2, 2007. If you had already paid to fix this flaw before the advisory was issued, you may be eligible for a refund. Also, Olympus's technical support says it will automatically replace affected cameras with certain serial numbers, even if the product hasn't exhibited any of the problems.

For details on camera makers' service advisories or to send your camera in for repair, click one of the company links below:

Canon

Fujifilm: point-and-shoot models , and advanced models

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