Expert: Peter G. Lee - 11/4/2006

Question
Dear Mr. Lee,

Hello, I have a JVC CD Player in my vehicle, and it is, of course, an aftermarket headunit.  The JVC cd-player is model number "KD-S5050"    (photo can be seen here: http://www.xocute.com/images/products/kd-s5050_big.jpg)

I recently attempted to eject the CD that was in the cd-player, however, the CD will not eject.  The eject display shows up on the screen, but no ejection occurs.  The CD player will, in fact, play the CD but NOT once I hit eject.  Once I hit eject and the CD does not eject, the CD will not play.  On the other hand, once I turn the CD player off and then back on, the CD will play just fine.

In as much as I am certain that a CD player not ejecting the CD is a common problem, what steps can I take to remove the CD from the unit, without damaging it.  What assurance do I have that this will not occur with the next CD that I insert?

Is this a fixable problem or should I replace the whole unit?  I am mechanically inclined so if there is a diagnosis and solution to the problem that involves taking the unit apart, I believe I am competent to do so.

Please advise.  Thank you.


Stuck in Myrtle Beach,
Jeff

Answer
Hi Jeff.
Remove head unit and disconnect,
remove any small screws that may be holding on the cover and lift off the lid, you can now see into the unit and 'gently' assist' a stuck CD to emerge. there is usually a simple reason for it, and they are many, so just be carefully and don't poke anything.
Peter