The lens of my Canon A710 PowerShot won't retract all the way when I turn the camera off. Then when I turn it on, the LED screen is dark. Also the shutter won't click to take a photo.Is it a total loss?

Try the procedures in this tip.

Try resetting the camera by removing the battery for 20 mins. then replace the battery go to the camera's menu and set the Date and Time.

Lens errors are fairly common. Usually it's sand or grit interfering with the lens extension mechanism. Or the camera's been dropped with the lens extended. Or the camera has been powered on, but the lens had been blocked preventing its extension. Or the battery ran down with the lens extended ... Unfortunately, many cameras that fall prey to this can only be corrected by professional repair. But, here are some things that you can do that may correct it. They only seem to work for less than 40% of the lens errors, but if the camera is out of warranty, they're worth a try.

The lens is jammed. Usually dust or grit gets in the mechanism and causes it to stick. Could try blowing down the side of the lens but it will probably need taking apart and cleaning. It is not an easy job to do but it might be worth trying as it would probably cost too much taking to a repair shop.

Try the procedures in this tip.

chaque the lens optics,they must be transperent and image must be satisfied,

If it says lens error all you have to do is try pushing the lens back in. If that doesnt work, sorry! lol =(

Did you drop your camera? the lens mechanism might be jammed,Did you brought it from the beach? It might have some dust or sand particles inside the lens. Have You changed the batteries? It can also be caused by poor battery.Please recharge battery or change new alkaline batteries. this website might also help you.

Please click this link to visit the manual download page of your camera:

Canon PowerShot A710 IS Manuals

Thank you

Try some of the less severe repair options for a lens error:

http://camerarepair.blogspot.com/2007/12/fixing-lens-error-on-digital-camera.html