How to Fix the PS2 Disk Read Error

Turn off the PlayStation 2 and unplug it from the electrical outlet. If you have any peripherals attached, like memory cards or a network adapter, remove them. Flip the console over so the bottom side faces up.

Pry the six square tabs and four rubber feet off of the console using the flathead screwdriver. If you don't have a screwdriver, use a butter knife instead. Set these pieces aside.

Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the 10 screws beneath the tabs and feet. The screws are two different lengths. Seperate the two types of screws and put them in a safe location.

Remove the back cover and then turn the PlayStation 2 over. Lift up the top cover and push it forward until it loosens. Lift it off of the console. The cover is connected to the console via a ribbon. Set the cover down carefully so as not to damage the ribbon.

Use the jeweler's screwdriver to remove the four screws in the loading tray lid. Put these screws to the side and lift off the lid.

Spray the console's fan and other parts with the can of compressed air. Blow out any visible hair or dirt. These things interfere with the console's ability to read discs.

Plug the PlayStation 2 back in and turn it on. Eject the disc tray. Locate the circular white disc in the top right corner of the console. Draw a small black line on the disc using a marker to mark its position.

Twist the white gear clockwise. Stop twisting when you hear the gear click and see it drop down slightly.

Plug in a controller and insert a game or DVD into the open disc tray. Put the black lid that you removed earlier on top of the tray and press down firmly. Turn the console on and hit the "X" button to attempt to load the game.

Note whether or not the disc loads. If the disc does not load, remove it. Leave the tray open and unplug the console. Remove the lid.

Twist the white gear clockwise four clicks. Try to load the disc again. Continue twisting the white gear until you can get the disc to load. Repeat this process with all four disc types: the DVD, PSOne game, blue PlayStation 2 game and silver PlayStation 2 game. Leave the discs running for a few minutes to make sure they continue to work. Turn the console off when you are done.

Replace the black lid once all the discs are loading properly. Put the screws back in with the jeweler's screwdriver. Slide the top cover back on and snap it into place.

Flip the console over and set the back lid on it. Replace all of the screws and then put the rubber tabs and feet back in their original locations.