A recording method and a malfunction detection method of an optical disc device are provided. The level of a signal driving a laser diode is detected during a recording operation. The detected level is compared with a reference limit, and the recording operation is controlled according to the comparison result. If the detected level exceeds the reference limit, a recording speed or power is adjusted downwardly, otherwise it is adjusted upwardly. If the detected level exceeds the reference limit, a malfunction in a front photodetector inside the optical disc device is reported to an external host. Appropriate control of the recording operation according to the disc reflection light incident on the front photodetector prevents degradation of recording quality. The reporting of the abnormality/malfunction in the optical disc device or the front photodetector makes it possible for the user to take a quick action against the abnormality or malfunction.