noise and freeze frame

[toto]

Hello,
I just bought G3 and there is a lot of noise while focusing. Sandy / crunching sound coming from the lens mechanism. I changed AF setting to Single and now there is less noise but before the camera locks the focus, the LCD display freezes for couple of seconds.
Has anyone experienced same problem? Do I have a lemon? Thanks.

[cityboy_ca]

There is a definite mechanical whirring noise as your camera seeks focus, but there should NOT be any grinding noises like you describe. I would take it back and ask for a replacement.