S1 Flash wont fire?

[Pixie]

This camera is not quite two years old but when I took it out three weeks ago to take some pictures, the flash would not fire. It won't even pop up.... Has anyone else had this problem? I checked the menu to make sure it was "on" and it is, changed the batteries to make sure and changed settings a hundred times just in case that would affect. No such luck. They tell me it's going to cost more than $200 to fix, so I'm deciding whether to repair it or go with a different camera!

Any ideas out there on the cause of this or if it's a typical problem with these pop up flashes?

Thanks :)

[snow_man]

Hi, just ran into the same problem - visited the local camera chain (Henry's) and they estimated that it would be about $200 Cdn to repair. Not worth it in my book, as negotiated a deal for a S3 IS for $409 Cdn. Know anyone that will repair Canon's cheap?

[snow_man]

Sorry - further info - the camera wants to fire the flash, but recognizes that the flash has not come up. If I'm forceful, I can pull on the flash and it will then come up. Almost like the release mechanism does not pull out from the catch all the way (I can hear a audible click of it releasing the first time I attempt to use the flash). Very annoying, as my options are to leave the flash up all the time, or just use it as a daylight only camera... :(

[BowerR64]

woah, the S1 has a mechanical popup flash? i never knew that.

I suspect they fail thats why the S2 and S3 use a manual flash popup.

[snow_man]

Yeah - I suspect that's why they went manual - one less point of failure. Have not been able to find any reference anywhere of this problem though - guess me and pixie are just "lucky".. Been a good run though - 9000 pics over that past 2 years I've had the camera - still haven't played with all of the features. May just leave the flash up, next time I "force it", and use as my backup - got the green light from the wife to go get the S3 IS - Xmas is coming and need a working cam.. :D Going through Henry's though as they offer the 12 month 1/2 back plan - was hoping to keep my options open for the new DIGIC III, if it comes out..