We had the same problem, after paying about $75 (Aus) we were told that originally that it only needed servicing and lubricating, but in the end it was that the laer was gone and needed replacement. I have just dusted it off after a few months and started searching. I have noticed quite a few of these players had the same problem. Apart from the Laser they were/ are a good unit. I think Sony is letting the name down lately with this and some other products that I have come across lately.