The camera doesn't recognize the lens or accessory and an error messages displays

Your camera may display error messages when there are problems with the lens or how it is attached. Some of these issues are resolved through some troubleshooting steps if the lens is not damaged.

Troubleshooting

Follow the steps if your camera doesn't recognize the lens, or lens features, or displays the error messages on the screen of your camera.

Note: Refer to your camera or lens operation manual for additional details on the steps in this article. Manuals are posted on your model support page.

• Check the compatibility of the lens

  A compatible lens ensures that all features and functions on your camera are working correctly. Although other lens manufacturers' products may work with Sony cameras, we don't guarantee full operation.

  1. Check to make sure that the lens is compatible with the camera body for full access to all features.

     Note: Some Lensbaby™ lenses may attach to the camera body but won't communicate electronically with the camera. We don't support the use of Lensbaby lenses.

  2. If possible, try a different, compatible lens.

  3. If the issue doesn't happen with another compatible lens, then the previous lens may require service. However, if the issue occurs with other compatible lenses, then the camera body and defective lens may require service.  Go to Product Repair. 

• Check the Connection

  Make sure to attach the lens properly. The camera can't communicate with the lens if the metal pins on the camera body and lens don't make contact.
  

  Follow the steps to check the connection between the lens and the camera body.

  1. Power off your camera.
  2. Detach the lens from the camera body.
  3. Examine the metal contacts on the camera body and on the lens.

     

     • Make sure that the metal contacts are clean and that nothing obstructs them.
       Note:

       • Use a dry, soft cloth to clean off any dirt.
       • Make sure that nothing will fall off inside the camera body or the lens.
       • Don't touch the sensor of the camera.
       • Don't touch the mirrors in the lens.
       • Wipe lightly so as not to put pressure on the contacts.

     • Make sure the metal contacts are not bent. If any of the pins are bent, your device may need repair.  Go to Product Repair. 

  4. Re-attach the lens to the camera body.
     Note: Align the marking on the lens to the marking on the mount on the camera body, then lightly turn clockwise until it clicks.

     

  5. Power on your camera.
  6. If the issue isn't resolved and you've tried a different, compatible lens, then the camera may need repair.  Go to Product Repair. 
  7. If you don't have another compatible lens to try, then both the camera and the defective lens should be sent in for repair.

• Check the Release w/o Lens option for non-Sony lenses and accessories

  In some cases, a non-Sony lens or accessory can cause a malfunction but may still work. The Release w/o Lens option sets whether the shutter can be released when no lens is attached.

  1. If using a non-Sony lens, lens adapter, or other specialty attachments such as a telescopic or microscopic lens, set the Release w/o Lens option:

     

     • Set the Release w/o Lens option in the camera menu to Enable.
       • Select MENU → (Shooting) → Shutter/Silent → Release w/o Lens → Enable.
     • Set the Shutter lock option, if available, in the camera menu to Off: no lens.
     • Set the mode dial to Manual (M).
     • Manually set the shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and focus.