Why Is My Canon Camera Showing an Error Code? (8 Fixes)

Dealing with an error code on your Canon camera can be incredibly frustrating. Whether you're in the middle of a photoshoot or capturing a once-in-a-lifetime moment, seeing an error message like 'Err 01' or 'Err 99' can stop you in your tracks. You're not alone—this is a common issue among Canon users, often caused by lens communication problems, memory card issues, or internal hardware glitches.

Error codes are reported frequently on photography forums and Canon support pages, with thousands of users seeking solutions every month. The good news? Many of these issues can be resolved at home with minimal tools. In this guide, you'll learn the most common causes of Canon camera error codes and follow 8 actionable troubleshooting steps to get your camera working again. We'll start with quick fixes like checking connections and move to more advanced solutions like firmware updates. If all else fails, we'll help you decide whether to repair or upgrade to a more reliable model.

Let's dive into the fixes and get your camera back in action!

Common Causes

• Lens communication issues (e.g., dirty contacts between camera and lens)
• Memory card errors or incompatibility
• Battery issues (low charge or poor connection)
• Firmware glitches or outdated software
• Internal hardware failure or sensor problems

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Power Off and Remove the Battery

Difficulty: easy | Time: 5 minutes

What to do: Turn off your Canon camera, remove the battery, and wait for 5-10 minutes before reinserting it and powering on.

Why this works: This simple reset can clear temporary glitches in the camera's system, especially for generic errors like 'Err 99.' It’s like rebooting a computer to resolve minor software hiccups.

What you should see: The error code should disappear, and the camera should function normally.

Warning signs: If the error persists after multiple attempts, move to the next step.

2. Check and Clean Lens Contacts

Difficulty: easy | Time: 10 minutes

What to do: Remove the lens from your camera. Inspect the metal contacts on both the lens and camera body for dirt or smudges. Use a microfiber cloth or a dry, soft cloth to gently clean them. Avoid using liquids or abrasive materials. Reattach the lens securely.

Why this works: Dirty or loose contacts often cause communication errors like 'Err 01' or 'Err 02.' Cleaning ensures proper electrical connection.

What you should see: The error should clear, and the lens should focus or operate normally.

Warning signs: If the error remains or the lens doesn’t respond, there may be deeper issues with the lens or camera body.

Tools needed: Microfiber cloth

3. Test with a Different Lens

Difficulty: easy | Time: 5 minutes

What to do: If you have access to another compatible Canon lens, attach it to the camera and power on.

Why this works: This helps isolate whether the issue is with the original lens or the camera body. A faulty lens can trigger persistent error codes.

What you should see: If the error disappears with the new lens, the original lens is likely the problem and may need repair or replacement.

Warning signs: If the error persists with a different lens, the issue is likely with the camera body.

Tools needed: Compatible Canon lens

4. Inspect and Replace the Memory Card

Difficulty: easy | Time: 5 minutes

What to do: Remove the memory card, check for visible damage, and reinsert it carefully. If the error persists, try a different memory card formatted for your Canon camera (use FAT32 or exFAT as recommended in your manual).

Why this works: Memory card errors can cause codes like 'Err 02' or 'Err 04.' A corrupted or incompatible card can disrupt camera operation.

What you should see: The error should clear, and the camera should save images without issues.

Warning signs: If multiple cards trigger the same error, the card slot or camera firmware may be at fault.

Tools needed: Spare memory card

5. Check Battery Charge and Contacts

Difficulty: easy | Time: 10 minutes

What to do: Remove the battery and inspect the contacts for dirt or corrosion. Clean them with a dry cloth if needed. Ensure the battery is fully charged or try a spare Canon-compatible battery.

Why this works: Low or unstable power can cause error codes or erratic behavior. Dirty contacts can also interrupt power delivery.

What you should see: The camera should power on without errors after using a charged, clean battery.

Warning signs: If the error persists even with a new battery, there may be an internal power issue.

Tools needed: Dry cloth, Spare battery (optional)

6. Reset Camera to Factory Settings

Difficulty: medium | Time: 5 minutes

What to do: Go to the camera’s menu, find the 'Reset' or 'Clear Settings' option (check your model’s manual for exact steps), and restore factory defaults. Note: This will erase custom settings.

Why this works: Software glitches or incorrect settings can trigger errors. A factory reset clears these issues.

What you should see: The error code should be gone, and the camera should operate with default settings.

Warning signs: If the error returns, it’s likely a hardware issue rather than a settings problem.

7. Update or Reinstall Firmware

Difficulty: medium | Time: 20-30 minutes

What to do: Visit Canon’s official website, download the latest firmware for your camera model, and follow their instructions to update it via a memory card or USB. Ensure your battery is fully charged before starting to avoid interruptions.

Why this works: Outdated or corrupted firmware can cause persistent errors. An update can resolve software bugs.

What you should see: After the update, the error should disappear, and the camera should function smoothly.

Warning signs: If the update fails or doesn’t fix the issue, there may be a deeper hardware problem. Safety note: Do not interrupt the update process, as it can brick your camera.

Tools needed: Computer, Memory card or USB cable

8. Contact Canon Support or a Repair Technician

Difficulty: hard | Time: 1-2 hours (plus repair time)

What to do: If none of the above steps work, visit Canon’s support website or call their helpline for specific error code advice. Alternatively, take your camera to an authorized repair center for a diagnostic. Note your camera’s warranty status before proceeding with repairs.

Why this works: Persistent errors often indicate hardware issues (e.g., shutter failure or sensor problems) that require professional tools and expertise.

What you should see: The technician should identify the exact issue and provide a repair quote or solution.

Warning signs: If the repair cost is close to or exceeds the camera’s value, consider upgrading instead.

When to Upgrade

Some Canon camera error codes signal deeper, irreparable issues that make repair less practical. If your camera consistently shows errors like 'Err 99' (often tied to shutter or mainboard failure) even after troubleshooting, or if it’s over 5-7 years old, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Older models also lack support for newer lenses or software updates, limiting their usefulness. Additionally, if your camera has been dropped or exposed to moisture, internal damage might not be worth fixing.

Repair costs can range from $100 to $400 depending on the issue and model, often making replacement a better option for mid-range or entry-level cameras. For example, replacing a shutter assembly on a Canon DSLR can cost as much as a newer, better-performing model. Check your warranty status on Canon’s website—if it’s still active, you may get a free or discounted repair. Out-of-warranty repairs on older models, however, rarely justify the expense compared to upgrading.

Red flags that it’s time to upgrade include frequent errors across multiple lenses or cards, repair quotes exceeding 50% of the camera’s original price, or if you’re missing shots due to outdated technology. There are no major safety concerns with continued use, but a failing camera can result in lost data or missed opportunities, especially for professionals or enthusiasts.

Prevention Tips

• Regularly clean lens and camera contacts with a microfiber cloth to avoid communication errors.
• Use Canon-compatible batteries and memory cards to prevent compatibility issues.
• Store your camera in a dry, dust-free environment to protect internal components.
• Avoid dropping or exposing your camera to extreme conditions like moisture or heat.
• Keep firmware updated via Canon’s website to prevent software-related errors.