The DVD trays in combo units can get stuck, as they are old and the last produced units were by Funai in 2015.
The probable cause is likely the mechanism failing to engage properly. Get your parents to open it and remove the DVD mechanism [power off to be safe] and inspect all gears and moving parts. As these units get wear from usage and likely sitting unused in a shed or basement, it will slowly degrade. Gear teeth can become brittle as it gets used and can also crack in moist environments. Belts can also lose their grip and snap. I can't be fully sure, but those are the two probable causes. Is the media you want to play VHS, DVD, or both? [If its DVD, which would be why your trying to watch DVDs, buy a standalone DVD player, as they are of higher quality and last longer. VCRs will be difficult to find in working condition if you want to use VHS. Is the VHS on the unit working?
Anonymous, January 2025
