Issues with my S45

I am wondering if my new S45 is defective, or if these things are normal.

First, I keep hearing this fluttering sound when the camera's zoom is operating. I can make it happen three ways. 1) when the camera is turned on just after the lens has extended, 2) when the camera is turned off just before the lens retracts, and 3) when I adjust the zoom (slower clicking instead of fluttering). My S30 doesn't do this and there aren't any S45's locally to see if this is normal.

Second, this camera is brand new and I can see dust over the lens covering. Not the glass that is on the outside, but just underneath that so I can't clean it off. Can this be cleaned?

Other than these issues, I am in love with this camera and it takes great pictures. I just don't want to be stuck with one that can be replaced for one without these issues.

In my opinion, it's best to just play it safe. Go ahead and get an exchange for the same model. These things don't happen often, so hopefully you won't have any more problems. BTW great choice on the camera, I've been happy with my s30 for ~8 months now. I've now taken 2500 photos and it's still working as well as the day i bought it. Take care, and I hope things work out!