Anyone fix the flashing Err on a Nikon D80 camera?

Lil'John

Senior member
Dec 28, 2013
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Title states it.

Out of the blue, the camera(D80) started flashing Err. Nothing has changed on the camera in years. I can't recall the last time I actually pulled the lens.

I have tried fully charging the battery; it was at about 1/2 charge when the Err popped up.

I tried "hard reset" using two green dots both with and without the battery installed.

I tried cleaning the lens contacts on both the lens and camera body.

From what I've read, this comes down to being a shutter issue. Are there any other steps I can try to fix this before I see what a shop tells me?

Background:
I bought the camera brand new about 10 years ago as a package deal. The lens in a Sigma DG and has worked well.
 

CuriousMike

Diamond Member
Feb 22, 2001
3,044
543
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Does the camera have "mirror lockup" used for cleaning?
I know the mirror != the shutter, but maybe try it.

Unfortunately the D80 doesn't have LiveView so you can't skip the shutter.

I'm not sure it's worth the effort to take it to a shop; purchasing a used Nikon D3100/D5100 would be a huge upgrade in terms of performance and probably cost less than repair.
You would lose out on buttons. D7000 would return all the buttons.
 

CuriousMike

Diamond Member
Feb 22, 2001
3,044
543
136
I don't know your finances, but I would seriously consider purchasing D3/5/7000 camera used if the repair is > $150.
A used D3/5100 series will likely be ~ $200 and a vast improvement sensor wise (if not control wise.). For $250 you could get a D7000 which would retain all the controls you're used to, but have a vastly improved sensor.