The problem relates to an electronic component which causes the camera to fail to switch on when using a fully-charged battery or the EH-5a AC adapter with EP-5 power connector. The issue is said to relate solely to inability to turn the camera on, with no safety risk posed, and no adverse effect on images captured before the problem manifests itself.

The issue is specific to cameras with certain serial number ranges, and Nikon previously stated that it was preparing a serial number lookup tool which would allow customers to determine if their own Nikon D5000 is affected. Today, the company has published the lookup tool as promised.

For customers whose cameras are covered by the advisory, Nikon has prepared a service program to provide the necessary repairs. The company is covering the cost of shipping cameras covered by the program in both directions, and has stated that it will wherever possible use two-day shipping to ensure the minimum inconvenience to customers.

It should be noted that Nikon is recommending customers to have their camera serviced if the serial number lookup tool identifies it as belonging to the affected batch, even if no problems have yet been experienced. To find out if your D5000 requires service, visit the lookup tool and enter your serial number...