When i open the compartment that houses the DVR tape, it will not release the tape. The holding mechanism is not rising on it's on as it should. It is as if the tape is jammed or tangled within the camcorder. I truly hope this is not the case, because my daughter's two year old spongbob party was or is on that tape. Please help!!!!!

In the Panasonic PV-GS85 palmcorder, there is typically a manual release option for the cassette mechanism. Here's what you can try to manually release the cassette:

1. Ensure the palmcorder is turned off: Make sure the power is turned off before attempting any manual release.
2. Locate the manual release switch: On the palmcorder, look for a small lever or switch near the cassette compartment. It is usually labeled "Eject" or "Manual Release."
3. Engage the manual release: Use your finger or a small tool (such as a pen or paperclip) to gently slide or press the manual release switch. Apply gentle pressure in the direction indicated (usually towards the open position) while pressing the switch.
4. Open the cassette compartment: While holding or engaging the manual release, try to open the cassette compartment by gently pulling it open. The manual release should override any locking mechanism and allow the compartment to open.

Rear Compartment Lid
The rear compartment lid can be opened by operating the rear compartment lid release switch, located on the instrument panel, or by using the manual release located on the rear compartment lid. Battery voltage is supplied to the rear compartment lid release relay through the Main Power fuse. The roof and door module (RDM) receives the rear compartment lid release request via the rear compartment lid release switch signal circuit. The RDM grounds the rear compartment lid release relay coil when a release input is received through the instrument panel (I/P) switch. Grounding the coil causes the rear compartment lid release relay to energize, providing power to the rear compartment lid latch assembly through the rear compartment lid release actuator supply voltage circuit.
As an alternate method of operating the rear compartment, an emergency release handle is accessible from within the rear compartment. When the handle is slightly pulled, it will provide a ground for the bed cover release relay which will cause the actuator to operate and open the rear compartment lid. If the handle is pulled further, it will mechanically open the lid, so even if the battery is discharged or there is an electrical concern, the emergency release handle will mechanically open the lid.

As an alternate method of operating the rear compartment, an emergency release handle is accessible from within the rear compartment.

Something broke on the lock mechanism. In order to open the trunk, you will have to remove the rear seats and try to access the trunk area. Once you are in the trunk, you should be able to manually open the lock and investigate what broke.

If you push the battery in and try to release? Try a little silicon spray, mind not to over spray.If you hold open the release switch and manually pry out the battery with your finger nails?

Hello.

Try smacking it outside where the tape should be. I know it's a weird solution but it worked many times before. The probable reason is that a mechanism somehow gets stuck inside. Just be careful and do not smack it too hard to the point that you will damage your camcorder!

Under the front clear housing that holds the cleaning tools, you will see the words "Easy Open" at the top of the bag compartment cover. Pull down and towards you and the bag compartment should open up. It's held in with pressure.

I had the same problem. I figure that dirt/rust may have accumulated inside the latching mechanism. I was able to fix it using the following steps.
1 - Remove the plastic cap that covers the top of the gate.
2 - Remove as many of the remaining torx bolts from the inside cover (you will need to do this to get inside the gate).
3 - Next, try and get some WD40 on/in the latch mechanism.
4 - Using a large screwdriver, you will need to pry the lever attached to the cable in order to release the latch.

Not a pretty process but it seemed to work. I give the latches a good lubrication frequently now, until I get around to replacing them.

The problem is a rubber tape tension roller. Simply eject the tape, look inside where the tape goes. You will see a black rubber cylinder that may have a white plastic tube protruding. If you have long tweezer or a hemostat remove the plastic tube which hold the rubber tensioner in place, then remove the rubber tension cylinder. Clean the shaft of the black rubber tensioner with alcohol on a q-tip. Replace rubber tension cylinder and plastic tube.

Also, the tapes can cause the problem. This process is possible by one person, but you may need another person or have three hands. The C:31:23 is tape tension error. The tape has become stuck. Simply eject the tape. Holding the tape upside down, pull back on the tape cover release slide on the left side of the tape, now take the hemostat and push the tape release tab, located opposite of the tape cover, push this tab down and back toward the back edge of the tape. Now while holding both those release levers, take a pencil and wind the tape past the bad spot or until the tape winds freely.
I did both of these and was able to use the camera again and view all my tapes!
Good luck and QUIT SPANKING YOUR CAMERAS!!!!

try hitting it with your palm to pop the door open.

I had a similar issue where the tape bay would not lock in and engage the motor mechanism to load the tape. I removed the battery from the unit and let it stand for approximately a minute then reinserted the battery. The tape drawer closed first without a tape then reopened with no issue. I then inserted a new tape with no issue. I guess it needed a hard reboot.