98 Sebring (Stratus) Convertible stereo/cd problem

[XR7]

The stereo of our 98 Sebring (Stratus) Convertible will not play cd's anymore. Radio's fine and stereo is trying to pack cd (you can hear the noise) but unable to read and says "no cd". The foolish chrysler guys want to charge us a hefty 1000 Swiss Francs (i.e. 800 USD) to replace it with a used/reworked system, since they say, 98' stereo's are well known for this problem.
Any other suggestions than spending a grand?
Thanks!
XR7 (with a retro style aftermarket stereo in that '67-one, functioning!)