Unsharp lens---repairable?

I have a Canon EF 24/2.8 that was never stellar in performance but is now

simply dreadful. It's not sharp at any aperture, according to my informal lens

test conducted earlier in the week. I've had this lens for several years so

it's not under warranty. I don't know what Canon USA charges for repairs these

days--would it be worth it to send it in for a checkup?

I am sure they will send an estimate. If it is changing, obviously something is wrong in the assembly.

I can't imagine a fix by Canon being economical. Their diagnosis charge might even be higher than the price of a decent used one off fredmiranda.com

 

If you can swing it check out the 24/1.4. I switched last year and wished I had done it long before.

If their rates are what they've been in the past, they'll charge you around $90 to calibrate it. If mechanical parts require replacement, it'll probably be around $120-$150. Local repair shops may cost less.

 

A new copy, with warranty, is around $300. Used, they're consistently around $210.

 

Canon won't charge you anything to tell you what's wrong with it. If you choose to accept their repair, it comes with a 6 month warranty. If the calibration doesn't work the first time, you can have it done again at no charge at a different location.

 

While the 24/2.8 is a good lens, many zooms offer that focal and aperture with more versatility and better quality. It may be more cost-effective to upgrade.

 

DI