My PS2 ceased to function, at least, in it's disc reading capabilities.

What's a good place to get this checked out?

Call Sony, tell them you're getting a Disc Read Error, tell them the game(s) that act(s) up, and they'll tell you to send it to them for free repairs/replacement. That worked for me. They lost a class-action suit on the subject some years ago.

That offer, however, appears to be no longer valid.  The free repair was only good until mid-last year.  You're likely going to be asked to pay for it.

Yeah.
Besides, I have a mod-chip in it, too.

Is the mod chip soldered in?  Here is a good looking store for repair:

http://www.fixmyplaystation.com/ps2_repair.html

They warranty their work and replace laser at actual cost instead of charging whatever they want.  Their site says "no mod chips" though, so you might have to take the chip out before sending in the PS2 for repair.  It's probably best to ask if they refuse to install mod chips, or refuse to work on a modded system.

Hmmm, I think most places refuse to service a PS2 that's been modded.  I'd be interested to know if anyone helps you, but I'm guessing you're going to have a tough time.  Of course my personal suggestion would be to trash the PS2 and wait until the PS3 comes out, and in the meantime get another system (Nintendo or Xbox) to keep you occupied.  However, I do realize there are many great games on the PS2   Such a pity Sony produces such crapware...
Good luck!

-avatar!

I've had my PS2 for years now, and never had a problem.  I installed an EASY mod, the flip top case, but installing mod chips has quite a potential for physically/electrically damaging the console.  With as much as people expect the PS3 to cost, it better have one hell of a warranty.

It's one of those newer model, thinner PS2s.

I've had a PS2 since March 2002, and that one works fine.
It's just not *here* in Germany right now...