Eating tape when I try and record or rewind tape

I'm not surprised that it advances on the end. The VCR doesn't know where the end of the taped programme is. You will have to search manually for it. Start at the end of the tape and rewind a few minutes worth of recording then press 'play' and see what you get. If not successful rewind further and try again, etc,etc. Alternatively you could press "play +rewind" which should allow you to watch the record on what is fast (=x2) rewind. It will help you if you know how long the show was and at what point the tape was when recording started.

the roller inside your camcorder might have dust dirt. try to use camcorder's tape cleaner to clean it.

While holding the 'Erase' button down, press the 'Rewind' or "Fast Forward' button. It will erase the tape while it rewinds or fast forwards.

Hey there.
Cassette head cleaners generally only improve the sound quality on playback. This problem sounds more like something mechanical; I would open the player and check out the capstan and rollers. If they are dirty, clean them with a mild soap and water solution, (carefull to not get it too wet). Also, as for the tape deck in your vehicle, OEM systems are notorious for eating and destroying cassette tapes.
Let me know how this goes over,
HortonA!

Try cleaning the heads with a head cleaner and making sure none of the parts have become loose due to extensive use.

that's my problem too. I'm going to try the solutions for the "remove tape" problem when trying to record--use dry head cleaner and the other options, check out that thread,

Diferent speed on REW and FF drum. Must cleans tape way

Tape heads should be cleaned first and gears lubricated. This job can be done at home if you purchase lithium grease and are very careful not to get it on the heads or spools. Greasing should only be done if you are confident in opening it up. Otherwise, seek a cheap professional. 

I've had mine for about 3 years and just last year it started giving me playback problems....the screen would have blue stripes across it and sound won't play. I could usually fix it by rewinding and playing again...but it's not correcting itself right now... I hope I didn't waste 60000 yen on this c_c;

look for a tiny pinhole and insert a pin while powered up to reset the device. if no-go, then the take-up reel needs attention...needs possibly a new or well-cleaned-with-alcohol-swab rubber belt