Canon Powershot Error E18

Archived from groups: alt.comp.periphs.dcameras (More info?)

Whew, I almost bought a Canon Powershot, too.
But, how much of a problem really is Error 18? I mean, if you have a
warranty ( especially an extended one) which you would, if you bought a new
one, can't they fix it? Error 18 is simply a physical problem --- a case of
the extending lens-collar getting jammed, so presumably it's easily
repairable. It's not like it's a problem relating to circuit-chip innards
or something of that nature.
Ultimately, does it not boil down to a question of, "How good is my Dealer
in honoring the warranty if the camera DOES go south?" In which case, I'm
tempted to go ahead and buy a new one anyway, but make sure the dealer is
good beforehand, and just be REALLY careful with it, not dropping it or
getting any sand or dirt near the housing where it could jam the collar.
So, to help make sure I choose a good dealer, can I ask this the members of
this NG who are located in Western Canada for some feedback on Dealers?
Candidates include LondonDrugs, Futureshop, and any dealers in the
Vancouver/Surrey area.