Problem with my 18 - 200 VR lens

[SenorNikonMan]

The other day I went to use my Nikon 18 - 200mm VR lens, after not having used it in a couple of months, and much to my surprise the autofocus and I believe the VR feature wouldn't work. They were both working fine when I used this lens last. My 70 - 200mm VR lens works fine on the same camera so I know that the problem is not with my D200. Does anybody have any idea why this has happened? Is there anything I can do or do I need to send it somewhere to get fixed?

It is a little over a year old so it is not under warranty. If I can't fix it myself, should I send it in to Nikon or to an independant shop? Does anybody have a suggestion of where I can have it checked out and possibly fixed?

[another view]

It is a little over a year old so it is not under warranty.

Usually Nikon lenses have a five year warranty unless they're grey market, etc. Authorized Photo is an independent shop near Chicago that used to be a Nikon facility years ago. They do warranty (and non-warranty) work so they're authorized by Nikon. I've never had any work done by them but understand they're good. Pricing is about the same as Nikon's facilities but they might get it back to you quicker.

[Kajuah]

Excuse my cheek but was the VR mode turned on?