Although you dont mention what model you are referring to its assumed it could possibly be a "D" followed by two digits one (plus a few others) and if so a large range of these developed an image sensor defect called the notorious "lens cap" fault. A free repair from JVC "may" still possibly be obtainable dependant on where you are located country wise, "may" being used as the special offer expired at the end of June 2009. To verify the lens cap problem you should still be able to play previously recorded tapes from the past. (not recent ones)