In May, we brought you news of the launch of Nikon’s new Z 8 mirrorless camera. However, only a month after the camera hit the stores, Nikon has launched a recall program for the Z 8.
What’s the issue?
Nikon has added a Technical Service Advisory page to its websites in Japan, Europe and the United States. On the page, the company states that: “Users of the Z 8 camera have informed us that in some rare cases, a lens cannot be mounted on the camera because the lens cannot be rotated to the locked position.” Nikon also confirms that: “Based on our investigation into the matter, it has become clear that this issue may occur with Z 8 cameras.”
Are all Z 8 cameras affected?
Nikon’s research has confirmed that not all Z 8 cameras are affected, however. The company has identified a range of serial numbers for the cameras with which the issue may occur. Nikon has also set up a dedicated Z 8 Service Advisory webpage where you can enter your Z 8’s serial number to see if your camera is affected. To locate your Z 8 camera’s serial number, open the camera’s monitor on the back of the camera. The product serial number is the seven-digit number printed on a label attached to the camera body.
What happens if your camera has the fault?
If your Z 8 is one of the cameras which has the lens mounting issue, don’t panic. Nikon has confirmed that it will repair affected Z 8 cameras at no cost to the customer. This includes the cost of shipping affected Z 8 cameras to Nikon, and their return to you, even if the warranty has expired. The Z 8 Service Advisory webpage will display instructions for requesting service, including receiving your free return shipping label if your camera is part of the recall.
What we think
The Z 8 has been a top-selling model for Nikon since its launch last month. It’s unfortunate, therefore, that the lens mounting issue has occurred so soon. However, Nikon has taken swift action to address the fault at no cost to its customers. It’s also clear that not all Z 8 models are affected. In addition, the company has been able to identify the serial numbers of the faulty batch. Slightly more concerning is that this recall follows closely from similar action Nikon took in December 2022. At that time, the problem was with the lens release buttons on some Z 9 cameras. Nikon moved all of its camera production to Thailand at the end of 2021. Hopefully, these issues are just bad luck and not related to the new manufacturing facilities.
