But the 'Lens Cap' is not on. The screen simply blacked out during recording and wont show anything but the 'Lens Cap' error. The viewfinder also shows the same problem. I can still get playback on the screen and when I record I get audio, but no video.

Any ideas?

Check out

http://www.jvcservice.com/service/CustNoticeCamcorder.asp?PgReq=DspDtaDtl&MdlNbr=GR-D72US&Pgm=CCD

I'm having the same problem and we're not alone as you may or may not have already figured out. I called tech support just to make sure JVC was still making this repair and the tech told me to fill out the form and send it to the nearest repair facility. If it is, in fact, the ccd the will replace it no charge.

I'm also having this same error. Where do I fill out this form?

I'm very annoyed, wanted to use this for my cousins graduation on Monday. :(

It seems JVC will repair for free some camcorder models that suffer from the LENS CAP error. The repairs are free until OCTOBER 1, 2007 only so hurry up and see if your model is listed at http://www.jvcservice.com/service/custnoticecamcorder.asp?ReqType=CCD

well all pretend like there isn't an 800# spam at the table

I sent mine in in late Jan 08 (just over a week ago) it was at least 3 years out of warranty. Got it back today all fixed . . . no questions asked! no charge!

I have never been a huge JVC fan . . . I now am!

Nice job JVC

I don't usually have a reason to go online and list a response to an issue, but in this case, I wanted to share my MOST PLEASANT experience with a manufacturer. Our video camera experienced the "lens cap error". I found the link for the product repair, filled out the form, and mailed the camera off to the Aurora IL repair center. Lo and behold, the camera came back about two weeks later fixed and ready to go. NO BILL, NO HASSLE, NOTHING! My camera was clearly out of warranty and JVC still made it right!

Way to go JVC! I am very impressed!

No Prob...I had the same problem with my GR-D72U. There is a defect in the CCD image sensor. JVC will fix it for FREE! All it will cost you is shipping it to them. Go to http://www.jvcservice.com/service/CustNoticeCamcorder.asp?PgReq=DspDtaDtl&MdlNbr=GR-D72US&Pgm=CCD , download the rapair request... Send it off to your nearest service center and they ship it back all fixed up in less than a week. I must tell you though, you ONLY have until Dec. 31 2008 to do this. Not only did they fix mine, they cleaned the heads but also buffed out a scratch. After you get yours fixed, post as many helps as you can to others.