As I think you will possibly be already aware of your model is suffering from a defective image sensor known as the "lens cap" problem. A special free (qualified) repair has been on offer for the past three years but it expired on June 2009, however info has it that JVC will still in some cases carry out this work on a goodwill basis depending on where you reside country wise, so contact whatever JVC customer services applies to wherever you might be located. Note! this does not cover any model with a DF heading, also more detailed info including web links cannot be sent to anyone who chooses to restrict their e-mail address.