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Step 1
Clean your drive. A CD cleaner disk removes dust and dirt. This is the leading cause for CD/DVD drive problems. Check the sound volume icon in the lower right hand of the screen. Muted sound is the source for many CD playback issues.
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Step 2
Inspect the drive. Press "Start," "Control Panel" and "System." Click the "Hardware" tab and choose "Device Manager." Select the CD/DVD drive from the menu. Right-mouse-click and select "Properties."
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Step 3
Click the "General" tab and select "Troubleshoot." This activates the Windows troubleshooter. Its multiple-choice options walk users through common PC problems. Select the option that matches your CD/DVD problem and progress through the screens.
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Step 4
Use the troubleshooter to see if the problem is a hardware malfunction. Third party diagnostic tools, like AMIDiag, are also helpful.
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Step 5
Select "Start" and "My Computer." Check to see if an icon exists for your CD/DVD drive. If there is no icon, opening the PC is next troubleshooting option. Unplug all cables and cords from the PC.
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Step 6
Place screws in a plastic cup. Open the PC and check for dust and dirt. Clean innards with a can of compressed air or air duster. Check the CD/DVD connections and gently seat any cable that has slipped from its slot.
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Step 7
Close the PC. Reboot and return to "My Computer" and look for CD/DVD icon. If the icon has not returned, you'll need to seek professional computer help or replace the drive.
