The camera stopped working and the lens won't close.

Here are troubleshooting steps for that issue:

This problem happens because of long time no using/ Dust or Lens guide pin damaged. If the lens guide pin damage then there is no chance for repairing . Only solution is replacing the lens. For the solution you need to follow the steps. 1. Turn off the camera and remove the memory card and clean the external body of the camera and make sure in place of the lens there is no dust or damaged sign. 2. Now turn on the camera without memory card & make sure the battery are fully charged. 3. If the lens not moving then give a little shake or thrust by hand ( carefully very slow) and then wait for a moment. If no changes then turn on the camera and give a little twist an anti clock side and leave for few second. It is risky ( Do it slowly at your own risk) 4. If nothing change then reset the camera setting from the menu option. After following all steps, if the camera does not start working then you need to visit service center for replacing the Lens or Repairing. But before repairing ask service center the approx cost. if they told you to replacing the lens then do not do that. Because a new lens & service charge cost you near about a new camera price. So best is buy a new camera. If you have any more questions ask me I fell happy to answer your question. Thank you.

http://camerarepair.blogspot.com/2007/12/fixing-lens-error-on-digital-camera.html - - - Do it your self lens fix

Even though the battery appears to be charging it may be shot. Some batteries if they run down too far can not be recharged. You need to try a new battery in the camera.

The gear linkage in the lens is seized or is out of alignment, this is a job for a camera specialist, I recommend estimate first.

You might try removing the battery for a minute or two to reset the camera. You may lose any special settings in the process. After reinstalling the battery, try turning the power on and off again.

Hi,

Here is a tip that I wrote about How toget a Digital Camera Lens to work again

Steps toRepair a Digital Camera Lens
heatman101

The lens error is due to failure of the lens control system. You can remove battery and card replace battery and while switching on tap the lens hood on your hands so as to disengage any dirt or mechanism being struck.
Use some air to blow between the lens to dislodge any sand particles struck inside. Unless you are familiar with handling of small devices must the camera be opened. If so check the voltage on the motor drive, check the auto focus and Zoom drives, it must be free with manual movement. If jammed the motor can be removed and realased. If none of these works then you can think of taking consensus with the service centre.
Get estimate before you decide. It will be good to have it checked at the authorised service as you do not have to run around for spares.

Perhaps you have bad batteries? Connect it to another power source such as an AC wall outlet and use your power adapter and see if this helps. If it does not or you have already tried this then your camera may need to be serviced.

check the lens the lens might be closed if are open and hold for 5 seconds if it doesnt work take it to a specialist

Please contact the nearest Authorized Sony Service. If you need more info please advice. Arpi