Because I’ve yet to own a PS1 that didn’t exhibit disc read issues at some point in its life
Sorry but that laser pickup is visibly tilted outside, which means it is mechanically worn out. Nothing to do with the laser emitter being worn out. The laser beam hits the disc at an incorrect angle and that is what gives the impression it is worn down electrically.
I no longer have a single plastic body PS1 laser anymore, I cant show how it looks like when it's worn sadly.