I have a Rebel G that has worked great for me for 3 1/2 years. Two rolls of film ago it seemed to be having difficulty advancing the film. On the last roll of film it had more trouble and by the time that roll of film was done a relatively new battery had been consumed. So it's off to the shop for repairs and I just hope it doesn't cost too much.

What I am interested in is getting a little feedback as to whether this type of problem is typical for the Rebel G? Not the specific problem but just the more general issue of needing some repair after only 3 1/2 years. As I read some of the posts here more carefully I get the impression that the durability of Canon gear may not be as good as I had been thinking and I would be interested to hear the opinions of more experienced Canon users.

Thanks.

Fritz

-- Fritz Owens (sf_owens@knology.net), February 16, 2002

Answers

My Rebel G has never had that type of problem in the 5 years I've had it, but 3 1/2 years doesn't surprise me. My general experience with most consumer grade cameras seems to indicate that they're a bit on the flimsy side. The flash on my Rebel got stuck and then wouldn't store back into its posiiton. My Elan IIe had its lens release button fall off after only moderate use. I don't obsess about my cameras, and maybe that's why.

I then bought an EOS 3, and that thing is 10 times more solid.

-- Ming Kuo (mtkuo@hotmail.com), February 17, 2002.

Most people don't drop by and post a message describing how great their gear performs. In contrast, the few individuals that have problems are eager to share their negative experiences with the world. Thus, it is easy to come away from these forums with the impression that there is a problem when, in fact, most people experience no problems.

I have owned most of the EOS midrange cameras and several of the pro series models and had very few problems during the last 12 years. The command dial failed on my 1996 EOS A2 and had to be replaced. However, I ran hundreds of rolls through it, got it very wet and dropped it several times, once from a height of 4 feet on concrete. It still works great! On the other hand, I used to shoot Nikon and the meter in my new 8008S when south. I know Nikon gear is basically reliable, but things sometimes happen.

The Rebel G is light and flimsy (solid plastic), but I know several people that have used that model for many years without problems. However, if you really need durability, Canon makes durable cameras: the EOS 1N, 1V and 3 are built like tanks and can take heavy use, heavy rain, dust and bangs and scrapes without missing a frame. Of course, they will cost ya.

The repairs will likely approach the value of a new Rebel G ($200 New York prices). I'd consider upgrading to an Elan 7. It's a lot better camera: feature packed, faster and much more durable. At least you could use your old lenses.

-- Puppy Face (doggieface@aol.com), February 17, 2002.

I have to agree with Puppy Face about replacing your camera. After 3 1/2 years, I'd say you got your moneys worth out of the G - despite others lasting 5 years. If you want a warm-&-fuzzy about Canon durability, ask some EOS 1 users how satisfied they have been with the longevity of that camera. I think you could expect similar lifespans from its replacements. On a budget, though, you could do a lot worse than the Elan 7.

-- Derrick Morin (dmorin@oasisol.com), February 17, 2002.

Fritz, you bought a Rebel not an EOS 1 configuration camera. Rebels are great little cameras but nothing lasts forever and a 3+ year life is about what you can expect from the low end SLR's from any maker. You can get a more durable camera from Canon--the EOS 1V is top of the line. It will roughly cost as much as 6-7 Rebels. That's 18-21 years of Rebels use for the same financial investment.

-- Lee (Leemarthakiri@sport.rr.com), February 17, 2002.

Thanks folks. Your replies have been helpful. At this point I am planning to have the Rebel G repaired unless the costs rise significantly above the current $85 estimate. I have had my eye on the Elan 7 for a while now but even if I spring for that I would still like the Rebel G as a spare.

-- Fritz Owens (sf_owens@knology.net), February 19, 2002.