The DF models are not covered by the special "free" repair programme that has been running for about three years now, albeit that this expires at the end of June 2009. Although JVC does not accept that these models were fitted with faulty image sensors the fact remains that over a period of time there has been quite a number of DF range models with this type of failure, some of known to have been repaired by JVC as a "goodwill" measure in the same way as is commonly done with "qualifying" "D" followed by two digit models, as these models "were" acknowledged as having been fitted with sensors that had the potential to develop the problem. ("Qualifying" meaning that you must be the original purchaser) Another snag exists though, that being that this model can sometimes develop a fault with the system switch which results with the same "lens cap" warning, so this has to be checked out first. If you feel inclined I would consult JVC customer services, as they "might" offer a goodwill repair depending on who you talk to and how you plead your case. (outrageous! but through experience its known thats how it works)