PS5 Disc Drive Not Working? Here's What to Do

Few things are more frustrating than inserting a game disc into your PS5 only to have it rejected, not recognized, or stuck inside. Disc drive issues are one of the most common PS5 hardware problems, and they're something our technicians at Bull City Mobile Repair in Durham, NC handle regularly.

Common PS5 Disc Drive Problems

• Disc not recognized — you insert a disc and the PS5 acts as if nothing was inserted
• Disc ejecting immediately — the console spits the disc back out without loading
• Disc stuck inside — the disc won't eject and you can hear it spinning
• Grinding or clicking noises — mechanical sounds when a disc is inserted
• Disc reading only some games — works for some discs but not others (often a dirty or failing laser)
• CE-107938-8 error code — PS5's error for disc reading failures

What Causes PS5 Disc Drive Failure?

• Dirty or scratched discs — discs with heavy scratches or dirt can damage the laser over time
• Laser lens wear — the BD-ROM laser lens degrades naturally with heavy use
• Mechanical gear failure — the motor or gears that pull discs in can strip or jam
• Firmware issues — rare, but PS5 firmware updates have occasionally caused disc drive recognition errors
• Improper disc insertion — inserting discs at an angle or with force can damage the mechanism
• Console orientation — PS5 disc drive can have issues if the console is laid flat vs. upright; make sure the disc slot aligns correctly

Things to Try Before Coming In

1. Manually eject the disc — locate the manual eject screw near the disc slot (covered by a small cap) and turn counterclockwise to release a stuck disc
2. Clean the disc — wipe from center outward with a microfiber cloth; never in circular motions
3. Check console orientation — if vertical, make sure the PS5 is straight; if horizontal, verify the disc slot is properly positioned
4. Update PS5 software — go to Settings ? System ? System Software Update
5. Rebuild the database — hold power until you hear two beeps to boot into Safe Mode, then select Rebuild Database

When You Need Professional Repair

If none of the above works, the drive likely needs professional service. At Bull City Mobile Repair we can:

• Clean and service the disc drive laser and mechanism
• Replace a worn or failed laser lens
• Repair or replace damaged gears and motors
• Remove stuck discs safely without damaging your games

Bring Your PS5 to Bull City Mobile Repair in Durham

Located at 4201 University Drive #105, Durham, NC 27707. Open Monday–Saturday, 10am–6pm. No appointment needed. Call (919) 937-9703 before coming in.