DLT40e won't accept tape

[CA1316510]

This SureStore DLT40e drive has suddenly stopped accepting tapes. Usually the door won't open, the "tape in use" light is on, and it doesn't respond to the Unload button. I've cycled power several times, and sometimes all the lights come on. I did get it to open a couple of times, and was able to slide a tape in, but it wouldn't retain it - just sprung it back out. I tried upgrading its V090 firmware to V150 via LTT (which did detect the drive OK), but it immediately pops up a message box, "Firmware upgrade failed". Happened so fast it seems it didn't even get started.
Any chance for this drive? It's out of warranty and the only options are fix or replace.

TIA

Bob Peitzke