Nikkor 35-70 F2.8 - Not focusing at 35mm

That lens when shifted to macro mode @ 35mm is manual focus only. I suspect that something in the lens is sticking making the lens think it is macro mode anytime its zoomed 35mm. Have you tried pushing the silver button and shifting the lens in and out of macro mode a few times? This may free whatever is sticking and allow the lens to work correctly.

--
Snapshott