It is standard for any VHS machine when not switched on to accept a cassette part of the way into the opening but if it is all powered up then it will continue inside and load the tape via the carriage & guides etc.
Your machine has developed a fault that needs attention by someone who understands and has experience of servicing & repair of these.
It may be that this item has been brought into a warm house from the cold and condensation has effected the head drum and or the tape guides and if so there is a sensor that will detect this condensation and shut it down until room temperature is reached. this prevent's the tape from sticking to the drum.
Steven, January 2014
