Odd disk drive sound

Hey, I've got an Intel Macbook Pro, I believe it is an A1226 (the number has rubbed off after 5 years).

2.4 ghz processor
HL-DT-ST DVDRW GSA-S10N disk drive

For the last few months I've had trouble loading DVDs or CDs. I'd put them in, and they wouldn't be read, then get spit out. If I did that a varying number of times they'd finally be read.

Today I started my computer up and instead of the normal br- br- brrrr- startup sound, I got one long sort of grinding sound. When I pulled up the info about the drive, it kicked on and I got the same sound.

Basically I think it's dying. Am I right, or is it something worse?

Also, should I bother to replace the drive and get a new battery (barely holds a charge)? Or just wait it out and pick up a new laptop in a few months? It looks like about 265-315 bucks including shipping for both. A more powerful Macbook Air is like 1000...

Will there be any ill effects of the drive not working properly?

Thanks.

Sure sounds like you have diagnosed this correctly. Models using slot loaders have a pretty high failure rate. Going from a Mac Pro to a new iMac, first option purchased was an external optical drive. Use this to save wear and tear on the internal optical drive.

Personally would put the money towards a new MBA which is what you would like to do anyway. With the MBA the optical drive will not go astray.