Sony Camera E:63:00 — Mirror Box / Mechanical Fault

What Does This Error Mean?

E:63:00 indicates a mechanical fault — typically the shutter mechanism or related actuators.
On Sony mirrorless, this involves the electronic shutter or the mechanical curtain.
Power off, remove battery, wait 30 seconds, restart.
Some E:63:00 events are transient.
If it persists, the shutter or actuator has failed and needs Sony service — 250–500 USD typical for shutter replacement.

Affected Models

Sony Alpha A7 series
Sony Alpha A9 series
Sony Alpha A1
Sony FX series
Sony Alpha A6000 series

Common Causes

Shutter past rated cycle count
Shutter blade jammed or obstructed
Foreign object in the shutter path
Actuator motor failed
Recent impact damaged shutter alignment

How to Fix It

Power off and reset.

Turn off the camera completely.
Remove the battery for 30 seconds.
Reinstall and power on.
Take a test shot.
Some E:63:00 events clear after a fresh boot — particularly if the cause was a one-off mechanical hiccup.
Inspect the shutter visually.

With camera body off and lens removed, look into the lens mount with a flashlight (don't shine directly into the sensor for long).
You'll see the shutter blades.
Look for visible damage — bent blades, debris, foreign objects.
Don't touch — even fingerprints can damage the shutter.
Switch to electronic shutter.

Many Sony Alpha bodies offer electronic shutter as an alternative.
Menu → Shutter Type → Electronic.
If E:63:00 only appears with mechanical shutter, you can use electronic shutter as a workaround until repair.
Some body modes (long exposure, flash sync) require mechanical — those won't work.
Check shutter actuation count.

Sony bodies log shutter count.
Apps like exiftool or Sony software can read this.
Most modern Sony shutters are rated for 200,000–500,000 actuations.
If yours is past that, replacement is normal end-of-life maintenance.
Send to Sony service.

Persistent E:63:00 needs Sony-authorized service.
Shutter replacement: 250–500 USD typical depending on body model.
For older bodies near end of life, consider replacement instead — newer bodies have better autofocus, IBIS, and cards.
Get a service quote first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the camera work with electronic shutter only?

Yes, mostly.
Electronic shutter handles most photography fine — silent operation and high frame rates.
What it can't do well: long exposures over 30 seconds, flash sync (limited shutter speeds), and certain anti-rolling-shutter effects.
For 90%+ of shooting it's a viable workaround.

Can dust cause E:63:00?

Sometimes — fine dust accumulating in the shutter mechanism over years can interfere with movement.
Most modern Sony bodies have dust reduction systems but they're not perfect.
Sensor cleaning by Sony service is included with shutter inspection at typical service appointments — worth doing if your body is over 5 years old.