Regarding the "trade-in" for cameras, when asked over the phone, the CSC staff has to give the politically correct answer which is only defective cameras are allowed for the privileged purchase which was what the programme was intended for in the first place. I am guessing this is because the phone conversation is recorded for training purposes and in order to avoid liability issues should anyone decide to abuse the system, they have decided to default to the standard, politically correct answer.
However, if you go down directly to the service center, Canon will accept any working or non-working camera. All you need to do is state that you wish to purchase the camera that you want under the Canon Privilege Purchase Programme and whip out your old camera that will be used for the "trade-in". Should the old camera be in working condition, fine. Canon will accept it under the "Body - Used Condition" criteria, no questions asked.
