Where Are the Replacement O-Rings?

Hi Ben,

I own a Sony underwater housing (MPK-AS3) for the Sony Action Cam (AS100V). Per the instructions, replacement O-rings are required. However, after contacting Sony customer support and the electronics store to which they referred me, as well as various large dive stores and underwater photography retailers, I have learned that Sony does not distribute or sell replacement O-rings. This presents a troubling issue: whether I'll be unable to get replacement O-rings or have to purchase another underwater housing when the O-rings wear out or are damaged. At $40, the housing isn't expensive, but replacement O-rings at a fraction of the price should be available. -- Bruce Drucker, South Wellfleet, MA

Yes, Bruce, it is a troubling issue, and it appears Sony offers little in the way of after-sale support. The shop that sold you the housing should have informed you. However, Sony is not alone in its neglect; that is something we must expect with many inexpensive proprietary housings. While a failed housing can ruin a camera, our society has emerged into one where we no longer can repair inexpensive items. When they fail, we just toss them. While one might find replacement O-rings for a few, but not all, inexpensive housings, once the model is off the market, O-rings may no longer be available. So if you buy another housing, first make sure you can get O-rings and then stock up.

-- Ben Davison