By James DeRuvo (doddleNEWS)
If you remember when we reported that Canon was having an issue with a limited batch of T4i cameras that had grips which were applied with too much rubber accelerator, that caused the grips to turn white and could have the potential to cause a rash to some people. Well it turns out its much worse as Canon has announced a recall of thousands… So much so that the Consumer Product Safety Commission has gotten involved.
” A chemical used in the camera’s rubber grips can result in a reaction that changes the grips from black to white and poses a risk of skin irritation to the consumer. - Consumer Product Safety Commission
The recall affects nearly 70,000 Canon T4i (EOS 650D/EOS Kiss X6i overseas models). And it’s somewhat puzzling. As we reported, Canon has been on top of this issue from the beginning, telling users to stop using the affected cameras. They created a special site to help users determine if they have an affected unit and would be contacting users when a fix was finalized. So on it face, I think Canon has taken all the proper steps. But now the CPSC is involved. Even though they are calling this a a voluntary recall, which is what it has always been, but maybe it’s do to the number of cameras affected are much larger than had been believed. 
“This recall involves EOS Rebel T4i digital SLR cameras with a 12-digit serial number that contain a second digit that is a “3″ or “4″ and a sixth digit that is a “1.” Serial numbers are printed on the bottom of the camera.”
Users are advised to visit Canon’s site and input your serial number. As stated last June, one of the following messages will appear:
· “Your camera is NOT affected” → No further action is required
· “Your camera is affected” → Stop using the camera immediately
· “Your camera is affected” → Stop using the camera immediately
If you are affected, Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled cameras and contact Canon U.S.A. to have replacement rubber grips installed free of charge. For additional information, contact Canon toll-free at (855) 902-3277 between 8 a.m. to midnight ET Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Saturday, or visit the Canon website at www.usa.canon.com
Which is what Canon said all along, isn’t it? That’s what we reported last June …
“A fix is currently being worked out at Canon and it is on track for implementation later this week (approximately July 12, 2012). Then Canon will likely have users send in their cameras to have the rubber grips completely replaced. Canon will advise either by posting update on their web site and also to notify registered users via email. So it’s vital that users register their EOS Rebel T4i/EOS 650D/EOS Kiss X6i, so that Canon can inform them via email when the free repair service will commence.”
But perhaps since Canon is a month behind the fix, or that not many users have contacted Canon, that a large product recall had to be issued. I can actually see that. If people are fully aware of the issue, they may not have felt it pressing to visit the Canon website to verify if their camera is affected. Hey, people are busy. And until the grips turn white, what’s the issue right? Then again, Uncle Sam just can’t resist the urge to get involved.
About James DeRuvo
