Nikon Autofocus Not Working: Troubleshoot & Fix in 4 Steps

If you are new to the DLSR game, you may have some issues adjusting to your camera. While some users have a hard time using the Nikon camera flash, others complain about Nikon autofocus not working.

The DSLR cameras offer both auto-focusing as well as manual focusing options. However, while trying to learn the basics, you may tweak some settings that will disable the focus feature.

Don’t worry, we’ll show you how to fix autofocus on the Nikon lens. But first things first. You must be wondering why is the autofocus not working on your Nikon.

Why is my Nikon camera not focusing?

Like many other users, you might be wondering what’s one of the most common reasons a DSLR autofocus fails. It can be anything from an unbalanced background contrast to lens or battery issues.

However, most often it’s a question of inadequate settings. One particular model seems to stand out more than others.

In this case, Nikon D5600 focus issues seem to be the most frequest and most of the times, the answer comes from Nikon D5600 autofocus settings.

However, there are many other models impacted. Let’s quick review the most recent issues reported by our users:

• Nikon D3500, D7100, D3200, D5500, D750, D3300, D7000, D7200, D3400, D500, D5000
  D610, D850, Nikon Z6, Nikon D5300 autofocus not working
• Nikon lens not focusing – Especially, Nikon 18-55mm lens autofocus not working
• Nikon autofocus motor not working

How do I fix my Nikon autofocus?

Before we dig in, make sure you try out the most common troubleshooting techniques:

→ Turn off your camera for a few seconds. If it has a replaceable battery, remove the battery as well.
Leave it idle for a few seconds. Insert the battery and turn on the camera. Check for any improvements.

→ Make sure that the background objects contrast is enough for your camera.

→ As a last-ditch effort, try resetting the Nikon DSLR camera to factory default.

1. Check Autofocus mode

1. Make sure both the lens and the camera switches are set to Autofocus.
2. On the camera, the switch must be set to AF (Autofocus) and not M. M is for manual.
3. Make sure the same is also true for the lens.
4. If the lens doesn’t have an AF option, set it to M/A.

2. Unlock the back dial

1. The back dial should always be pointed toward the camera icon.
2. If it is pointed towards, L, make sure you use the dial to point it towards the right icon.
3. Once it is done, check if the Nikon autofocus option is working properly, as intended.

3. Check AEL / AFL

1. Check your AEL/AFL buttons.
2. If you have locked focus using the AEL / AFL, the focus feature will not work.
3. Make sure you click the AE-L and AF-L buttons to unlock focus.
4. This should help you to resolve the Nikon camera focus issue.

4. Check the lens

1. If you haven’t locked your focus, the issue could be with the lens.
2. Remove the lens and inspect it for any scratches from both ends.
3. Make sure the filters are clean and have no physical issues.
4. Use a clean cloth to clean the lens. Avoid blowing on the lens.
5. While reattaching the lens, you should hear a clicking sound after twisting it.
6. You may also want to check the viewfinder of your DLSR for smudges, oil, or dirt.
7. Use a piece of cloth to clean the viewfinder. Do not use any solvent to clean the viewfinder.

Despite smartphone cameras offering great image and video quality, the DSLRs are still a favorite for many professionals as well as individuals.

We hope this little troubleshooting guide helps you to fix the Nikon autofocus not working issue by yourself. Should the problem persist, you may need to take the DSLR to the authorized service center.

If so, don’t forget to do a bit of research regarding the Nikon lens autofocus repair cost and see if it is worth it.