Frequency of EF 24-105/4 L error 01

[Frodo]

I've been very happy with my 24-105/4 L since I bought it for my 5D to replace the very soft 28-135 that I had since film days. It then graced my 5DII and 6D and now provides very sharp images on my 5DsR. It must be 8 or 9 years old.

Today the red "L" ring broke - no big deal, but it made me wonder how frequent is the failure of the cable that actuates the diaphragm blades on this lens. This is the failure that causes the "Err 01" message and means the camera can only operate at 24mm and f/4. I am less concerned about the cost to have the lens repaired (I have got more than my value back on this lens) than the failure leaving me without a working lens. When I take critical photos (e.g. weddings), I always have back-up lenses and a back-up body. However, the 24-105/4 L is an almost ideal FF hiking lens and normally it would be my only lens on a hike.

The internet is (of course!) full of horror stories about this lens failing. But how frequent is the problem? And would replacing the cable / diaphragm unit reduce the risk of future failure?

Thanks

 

[MrFotoFool]

Sounds like you have the original version of the lens (which I had for years) instead of the newer version ii. Mine never had a problem. Not sure how long I owned it - maybe eight years or so like you. I have never heard of a red L ring breaking (on any lens) so I imagine it is quite uncommon.

The reason I replaced mine is because I dropped it on cement and dented the filter ring, so that filters could no longer be used (it worked fine otherwise, which is good since it happened on the start of a European vacation). For replacement I got the (then new) 24-70 f4L, but this was before the new 24-105 ii was out. One advantage of the one I got is a built-in macro switch, an extremely handy feature if you don't want to carry a separate macro lens. Before I gave away my 24-105 I tested both lenses close up at 24mm on a large door and the new 24-70 had less barrel distortion (though the new 24-105 ii may be just as good in this regard).

 

[Frodo]

I spoke to Canon NZ who were very friendly but would not confirm or deny that there was even an issue. However they offered an inspection of the lens for $NZ 70. I presume cracks in the flexible cable will be apparent so will take them up on their suggestion. I have a buzy month with two weddings, a couple of events and a hike (it is summer here!) so will send it off in March.
Mr FF: yes it is the mark I version. My copy is very sharp, outresolving my 5DsR in the centre at all focal lengths down to f/8 and away from the centre from wide angle to standard. It is weakest away from the centre at 85-105mm, but not a major issue for portraits. So I'm keen to keep it.

 

[Ian_of_glos]

Sounds like you have the original version of the lens (which I had for years) instead of the newer version ii. Mine never had a problem. Not sure how long I owned it - maybe eight years or so like you. I have never heard of a red L ring breaking (on any lens) so I imagine it is quite uncommon.

The reason I replaced mine is because I dropped it on cement and dented the filter ring, so that filters could no longer be used (it worked fine otherwise, which is good since it happened on the start of a European vacation). For replacement I got the (then new) 24-70 f4L, but this was before the new 24-105 ii was out. One advantage of the one I got is a built-in macro switch, an extremely handy feature if you don't want to carry a separate macro lens. Before I gave away my 24-105 I tested both lenses close up at 24mm on a large door and the new 24-70 had less barrel distortion (though the new 24-105 ii may be just as good in this regard).

The red ring snapped and fell of my 24-105 F4L mark 1 and I know at least 2 other photographers who have had the same problem. It does not affect the performance of the lens in any way, but it doesn't look very nice and it makes the lens more difficult to sell.