Nikon Stands Behind Their D600 by Offering Free Repairs
Nikon stands behind their D600 by offering free repairs for all those who want one. Seems many folks have experienced issues with their D600 cameras producing an unusual amount of dust and even oil spots on the cameras sensor. This was a big issue for many and in fact, Nikon actually brought out the D610 with almost no new changes or additions other than an updated mirror box that allegedly took care of this issue Nikon shooters were complaining about. I’ve had a D600 since it was first released and though I too had spots on my sensor, I just chalked it up to wear and tear and had my local camera shop clean it for me a couple of times.
Click on the D600 image above to be taken to the official Nikon Service Advisory web page that explains the program. It’s a great deal and very easy to get it taken care of. Nikon even pays for shipping to and from. Very positive for those who have been effected. Nice job Nikon.
I have to say I’m not sure this was as big of a deal as many made it out to be or at least it wasn’t for me. It’s amazing how the Internet can steamroll for both good and bad. With this recall Nikon has finally offered to take care of the problem and offer a camera repair for all who want the fix. Some are suggesting a potential class action suit was the impetus for their decision to take care of their customers. I have to say the class action suit was just getting started but it had some momentum. Then we see this offer. Seems pretty likely it must have had some influence.
So how many Explorer’s had this oil and dust problem? Any readers who want to chime in – I would love to hear how many of you were affected and what you think about this offer from Nikon. Add your voice.
Philip VenableOn Mar. 6th, 2014
I bought the D600 from a friend in Dec. I registered it on the Nikon site as it still had a couple of months left on the warranty. A couple of weeks ago I received an email from Nikon offering to fix my camera for free. I noticed spots on photos, which I could fix in photoshop, but jumped at the chance to get a new shutter mechanism. It says a lot about Nikon wanting to keep its customers happy. I’ve owned Nikon equipment since the mid 70s so I am delighted they stand behind their products.
Daniel J. CoxOn Mar. 6th, 2014
Agreed.
Cheryl GarrityOn Mar. 2nd, 2014
Like many, I had many spots on my photographs, especially in the top left quadrant. I sent my D600 in for service while it was still under warranty. Just this week, I received an email form Nikon offering to provide service and this time they will pay for shipping too. It ‘s a bust time of the year, but I expect to take advantage of the offer.
Eric LarsonOn Feb. 28th, 2014
I bought a D600 refurbished from Nikon. The camera store told me that it was refurbished as a result of the oil issue. I don’t use it a lot as it’s a backup to my D800 but I have had it out enough over the last year to put it through it’s paces. I’ve had no issues with the camera at all. It works great and I’m very pleased with it.
Daniel J. CoxOn Mar. 1st, 2014
Eric, Thanks for adding your voice. I’m also a big fan of the D600. I’ve had some minor sensor cleaning issues but not to the extent that some folks have complained about. I currently shoot three different Nikon bodies, the D4, D800 and D600. Without a doubt the best bang for the buck is the D600.
VinceOn Feb. 28th, 2014
I had the oil spot issue on my D600 and had it cleaned by my local camera shop. At the time I only had this one camera and couldn’t afford the time it would take to send it into Nikon for cleaning.
I now have my backup camera and will send in my D600 to have the shutter replaced and sensor cleaned. Turnaround time is about 8 days from what Nikon told me.
Daniel J. CoxOn Mar. 1st, 2014
Thanks for your input Vince. Nikon’s service has improved immensely over the past two years. They were always relatively good but from my recent experiences with their new web site and turn around times, they have obviously upped their game in the service sector lately. There are still a few things they could do but overall I’ve been impressed with their commitment to making our lives easier AFTER the sale. I would love to have you stop by after your repair and let us all now how it went.
William N. CullerOn Feb. 28th, 2014
I own the D600 also and have the dust issue in my images when using smaller apertures for landscapes. I just had my sensor cleaned by an Authorized Nikon Service Center when I received the Service Bulletin E-mail from Nikon with shipping instructions on returning my D600 for a free inspection, cleaning, and shutter replacement. There is always so much negative feedback online, so in my “optimistic” opinion, no matter what the motivating factors were for Nikon’s decision; I am pleased that they are proceeding with this initiative. This is my first full frame camera and I really like how the D600 performs. And. . . My camera is already in transit back to Nikon for the upgrade.
Daniel J. CoxOn Mar. 1st, 2014
William, my sentiments exactly on your reality based take on this whole issue. As I mentioned in an relier post, whatever the reason, Nikon should be commended for doing the right thing, no matter what their inspiration for making that decision. My experience has been pretty much as yours and I’m going to be taking advantage of the Service Update myself when time allows. Until then I’ll have to clean a few spots off my images with smaller apertures. Thanks for joining the conversation and adding your thoughts on this.
William N. CullerOn Mar. 13th, 2014
As I stated in my comments on 2/28/2014, I returned my D600 via the Nikon provided UPS label on 2/27/2014 and received it back on 3/13/2014 (2 days transit each way). Per the repair paperwork, Nikon replaced the shutter mechanism, six related parts, did a general check & clean, and a firmware update. I still need to test it out further, but at this point I am pleased with the turnaround time and the extent of the service performed. Personally, I give Nikon credit for extending this shutter repair service to all of the D600 owners.
Christine CrosbyOn Feb. 26th, 2014
Thanks for this Dan! As you know, I’ve been a little concerned about whether this was an issue for me as the D600 is a new fairly new camera for me and I have noticed a fair amount of spotting on a number of the images (in particular when shooting birds in flight against a bright blue sky) from our recent trip to Japan. I’m not totally sure if it’s a camera issue or “O.E.” but it’s really nice to know that Nikon is willing to address this if it is indeed an issue. I really appreciate knowing there’s an option and am interested if others have had an issue with this as well.