How to Clean a PlayStation 2 Lens

If you keep getting disc read errors on your PlayStation 2 and have made sure the disc itself is not the problem, it is probably time to clean your laser lens. Doing it yourself saves you money. Before you get started, be forewarned that cleaning the lens yourself voids your PlayStation 2 warranty.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdrivers
• Cotton swabs
• Rubbing alcohol

1. Turn the PlayStation 2 over to remove the screw covers. Use the flat head screwdriver to remove the plugs that cover the screws. This reveals several Philips screws. Do not remove them yet. They must be unscrewed in a certain order so that the PS2 opens up properly.

2. Remove the small screws near the control ports, powerboard and DVD drive using a Phillips screwdriver.

3. Remove the long screws from the upper right section. This enables you to remove the cover.

4. Flip the PlayStation 2 over to open it up. Before opening it, ensure the PS2 has had adequate cooldown time. Wait at least one hour after playing the game station before continuing. You do not want to burn yourself on the hot elements within.

5. Open the PS2 carefully so as not to damage the ribbon inside the console. Lift up the case gently and slide the cover off. Notice the big black box that contains the laser lens and DVD drive unit you need to clean.

6. Locate four black, small screws holding the black box down. Remove the screws using a Philips screwdriver.

7. Lift up gently on the cover of the DVD drive. This fully exposes the laser lens.

8. Dip one cotton swab in rubbing alcohol. Gently rub around the edge of the lens with the swab. Look for any greasy residue that may be there and remove it. Remove any fuzz. Use gentle pressure so you do not damage the PlayStation's lens.

9. Take a dry cotton swab and dry off any liquid left behind. Ensure there are no cotton fibers left behind on the lens.

10. Reassemble the PlayStation 2. Work backwards from the way in which you disassembled it.

Tips & Warnings

• Opening up your PS2 voids your warranty. Do so at your own risk. If you are not comfortable working on your PlayStation 2, have it cleaned at an electronics store's service center.