I often feel like people only post "disaster" stories of their dealings (regardless of brand) with authorized manufacturer repair. So I'll share what I feel is an absolutely stunning story the opposite way.
I recently bought a Nikon 300/f2.8 VR and as such I'm toying with the idea of selling off my 300/f4 AF-S. I wanted to have it looked at by Nikon Canada first though to feel really good about the lens before I sell it. Not that I've had any issues with it, it's been as sharp and optically excellent as my first 300/f4 AF-s, which is to say excellent.
But it's been squeeking a little bit when autofocussing, and while focus is still spot on, it's definitely been noticeable.
In to Nikon repair on Wednesday afternoon (right around lunchtime) direct at Nikon Canada. I'm quoted the standard "about two weeks and we'll let you know".
Today, one day later, I come home to a message from Nikon Canada. A very polite and professional "Your lens is ready for pickup" and notice that it's been completely cleaned and overhauled and functioning perfectly.
Kudos to Nikon Canada. In my limited experience (three trips to Nikon Canada direct, and twice through a local dealer) I've yet to have a negative experience whatsoever, but a half day turnaround is just about incredible IMHO.
When I pick up the lens, she hands me the service bill, and since the lens has been in once before to service it after squeeking, they actually replaced the motor and circuit board... free of charge. Seems they don't like customers having to bring in equipment for the same repair multiple times and now the guts of the lens is completely brand new... ONE DAY LATER. Also keep in mind that focus was still spot on, it just had a little squeek to it.
Now it purrs like a kitten when autofocussing. My two big THUMBS UP to Nikon Repair Canada... absolutely first rate service all the way, and a very happy (and repeat) Nikon customer.
DJ, glad they got you up and running fast with that lens. I know where you could send it for some additional testing I promise to get it back to you in oh... a month..
I have nothing but great experiences with Nikon Canada, the turn around time is fantastic (I replace about 10 shutters a year) in fact they now ring me to review maintanance schedules.
Gav
gavin wrote:
I have nothing but great experiences with Nikon Canada, the turn around time is fantastic (I replace about 10 shutters a year) in fact they now ring me to review maintanance schedules.
Gav
WOW! 10 a year?
Nov 10, 2008 at 09:10 AM
Andre Labonte Offline • • • • • • Upload & Sell: Off
I've had to send cameras to them a couple of times (CA) and they've been excellent. If BMW service was as good I'd still be driving one :-) (we have an Acura and Toyota now in case you're wondering).
Well colored me impressed as well. I sent my 24-70 in on 10/21 because of a slightly loose lens mount and some gritty feel in the zoom ring between 50-70 mm. The lens went on "parts hold" immediately and stayed that way on Nikon's online tracking system until today when it was updated to "shipped" status.
Well, I got a call this morning from my local dealer (The Camera Company / Norwood MA. Excellent by the way.) My lens was ready for pick up. To my surprise and pleasure, Nikon sent me a brand new lens. Granted, the original lens was only about 7 months old....but I'm extremely satisfied. The new lens is perfect. AAA+++ Nikon !! Way to go !!
I promise to get it back to you in oh... a month.. 
... I'll have to keep that in mind... would hate the lens getting neglected on my shelf and all...