December 2007 - My Canon 5D camera has been showing some dark spots on images and I tried taking the camera apart and doing a thorough cleaning. The dirt or specks are still showing up on the images. The dirt must be on the sensor and I look into having it professionally cleaned.

January 1st 2008 - No improvement, I researched on the internet & found an article that recommended sending it back to the factory for any sensor cleaning. "They" weren't charged anything ??? - "They also sent and had the camera back in 7 days... Here is a site that thinks it costs $50.

January 2nd, 2008 - My Canon 5D Digital is sent priority mail through the US postal service w/ insurance to the Canon Factory in New Jersey. Cost was $17.

January 7th, 2008 - I call Canon to make sure they have received my camera, because that 7 day turn around is really getting close. They have no record of it at this time. Call back toward the middle of the week.

January 8th, 2008 - Canon sends an email that they have received the camera and the "estimated" cost to clean the sensor is $206.70. OUCH . I call the factory and give them my approval. A Factory rep said it will be another week before I receive my digital camera back. So much for the fast service. They said they will notify me (e-mail) when is has been shipped

January 9th, 2008 - Gee, what should I do. I give Canon the go ahead. At least I know it will be done right and I have learned that sending the camera back to the factory is the LAST resort. Next time I will purchase a sensor cleaning kit and pocket the rest.

January 12th, 2008 - No word yet.