I have a Canon Power Shot A480, when I turn on the camera I get an error message "lens Error, Restart camera" and the lens is stuck open...

This message ' lens error - restart camera ' is usually shown under the following condition.
An error was detected when the lens was in motion and the power has been automatically turned off.This error can occur while you hold the lens when it is in motion or you operate it in a location with excessive dust or sand in the air.Try turning the power back on, and resume shooting or playback.If this message continues to display it shows a problem with the lens and you have to open and repair it which I would not prefer as it can affect the fine mechanics inside the camera.You can contact the Canon Customer Support Help Desk from the following link. ( http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer?pageKeyCode=requestRepair ).Your valuable feedback would be appreciated if satisfied with my solution.Thank you.

Try these procedures.

I have fixed similar problems with various versions of this camera.
Many people in FixYa.com recommend various treatments for this problem. These include gently tapping the camera on a hard surface or tapping it harder on the palm of your hand in order to dislodge any sand or dirt that may be clogging the lens gears.
I first to take the camera back to the shop if it is still under warranty. Second, look at similar morels on FixYa.com to see the other solutions. Search for 'cannon lens error restart' and things of that nature.
Third, if none of these other options work out, then please go to my blog and check out the instruction on how to take apart your camera and fix it for yourself. Here's the link: http://johnsmouth.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/lens-error/
The method is for an older model, but your camera should be similar inside. I've used this method with newer Canon PowerShot Digital Elphs and it also fixed those lens errors. 
Good Luck!

Try these procedures.

Hi,

Checkout this tip about digital camera error messages


Lens Errorfix for Digital Camera

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Service & Support Issue: Camera displays "Lens error, restart camera" on the LCD monitor.
Solution: Possible solutions for a Lens Error message PowerShot A480.

The "E18" or "Lens" error message indicates an error that involves the lens unit or lens cover.
This error may appear where the lens is prevented from properly extending or retracting such as, for example, when pressure is applied to the lens or the area surrounding the lens while handling the camera. The error may also be displayed if the lens unit/camera has been subjected to an external shock, or if a foreign substance (i.e. liquid, sand, dirt) enters the camera. Solution
Check the following when you operate the camera to avoid applying pressure to the lens and surrounding area:

• Hold the camera so that your fingers do not touch the lens unit when you are shooting.
• Make sure the camera is off before the camera is placed back in the case. Exercise caution to ensure that the camera does not accidentally power on while the camera is stored inside the case.

If you cannot clear the error code by turning the camera off and then on again, or if the error code is displayed frequently, a camera malfunction may have occurred. Please click here to set up service for your camera online.

Please replace standard alkalines with rechargeable NiMH batteries Sony or Varta 2700 Ni-MH!
That's was working for me!.

Sending it to an authorized cannon repair facility. the lens must be replaced.

If you get that message the lens is stuck.
You should take the camera to a repair center.
They should repair it under warranty.
I have seen this problem a few times already. 

take it to a proffesional... ull need a new lens and more likely a whole new camera but dont start buying until u ask someone that know ALOT about cameras anyway id have to see it up close to know wat excatly is worng. !!!! try cleaning ur lens !!!!!