Mark A wrote:

Did they tell you what part needed to be replaced, that they no
longer have? If there diagnosis is correct, then you should try to
determine whether you can find the part, either new or from a
salvaged player. Keep in mind that if a repair service does not have
the part in stock, they order from Sony unless it is generic
component.

Clean the lens, or have the laser replaced. Any competent service person
shoulsd be able to do it. You'll need to be able to find the laser part
number though.

My guess is that you were talking to somebody non-technical, who was put on
the spot and decided to take the easy way 'out'.

geoff