Nikon d7000 Auto Focus Problems? - 1

Just got a brand new Nikon d7000 less than a week ago and today all of a sudden out of the blue the AutoFocus does not work. Won't focus and if you try and press the shutter it won't take pics either. Manual focus works fine. What is going on? Any suggestions on what might have happened?!

I'm using the Nikon d7000 with the 18-105mm VR lens. Both the auto focus button on the camera and on the lens are clicked to auto focus but it won't work. If I switch the buttons to manual it works fine. Brand new camera… Any help would be appreciated!

Not a "brand new" D7000, since that model was superseded well over a year ago, but indeed still an excellent camera. Did you buy it as "brand new" or as "second-hand in very good condition"? Is the lens working properly? Can you find somebody with another modern Nikon lens to test whether it is the lens or camera body which is giving trouble.

Are you using it in very dark areas? In very dark areas Autofocus is unreliable in most cameras.

There are startling similarities with the linked post.

You could have a lens issue.
On the 18-105 lens, the contacts sometimes get dirty. Removing the lens and reattaching will generally solve the problem if it's a contact issue.

Or, try a different lens.

BTW, doubtful that the D7000 is a new camera. It was discontinued a couple years back.

Try the rear AF button. If pressing that button activates the focusing system, then your settings have changed. Many DSLRs have the ability to turn the AF off at the shutter button and on at a rear focusing button. The default is to have the AF activated by pressing the shutter button. However, most everyone prefers to turn this off and switch the settings to the rear AF button. This allows you to focus one time and then recompose and take your shots all without having to worry about the camera re-focusing each time you press the shutter button. It's probably the first setting to be changed out of the box.

In manual focus, take a photo then check the photo in the computer. If the picture is in focus, return the camera to the store with the box and the sales receipt. Warranty will take care of it. If you return it to the store within a week of purchase, the camera will be replaced with a new one if your camera is proven to have a factory defect. After a week, you get free parts and service.

If the picture appears blurred in the computer, take another picture with autofocus on and check in the computer. If this second one is clear, even if blurred in the camera's viewfinder, read the manual on how to adjust the diopter of the camera.

There are times when a camera can't auto-focus.

* when you have it in the manual focus mode (lens and or camera) - which is not your problem.
* when it is too dark to focus and you do not have the focus assist lamp enabled

Nikon cameras by default will not let the shutter release work if 1) the camera is in the auto-focus mode and the lens can't focus, 2) if there's no memory card in the camera and 3) if the memory card is full.

Did you remember to format the card in the camera before using the card?

When you say, "Buttons" are you referring to the button on the front of the camera body, just right of the lens mount AND also the one on the lens barrel? They should BOTH be either on Manual or Auto.

Did you check the battery charge level, to ensure you have enough power (usually you'll get a notice on the top monitor indicating or flashing "BATT" or are you getting an "Er" or "Err" or ERR notice?

Did you check your camera instructions manual on the section for Error Notices and the area for trouble-shooting problems?

Save yourself a trip back to the store and call them and explain the problem; they may be able to resolve the problem over the telephone (HAVE the camera with you when you call).