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Tutorial: How to Fix Hard Drive Failure on Windows 10

If you, too, are having a hard time understanding how to fix hard drive failure Windows 10, this detailed guide is what will help you get through it!

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Updated by Daisy on Oct 19, 2023
Written by Sherly

For Windows 10 users, dealing with hard drive failure can be difficult. However, you can solve these difficulties effectively with the correct tools and methods. In this article, we'll look at three thorough guides that will assist you in learning how to Fix Hard Drive Failure on Windows 10. We have you covered whether you prefer utilizing specialized software or built-in Windows utilities.

Let's get started! Here is a table showing duration, complexity level, causes, and fixes for hard drive failure on Windows 10:

🚩Aspects 📃Details
🔎Causes Malware or virus, Insufficient system resources, Outdated hard drive
🧩Symptoms Slow performance, software compatibility issues, blue screen of death (BSOD), data loss/ file corruption, and Windows update issues.
🔨Fixes
🔦Complex Level Low, step-by-step guide

As the table indicates, there are various reasons for hard drive failure on Windows 10. Here, I list some common causes:

  1. Physical damage: Dropping or mishandling the hard drive can lead to mechanical failures, such as damaged platters or read/write heads.
  2. Corrupted system files: Software errors or improper shutdowns can result in corrupted files, rendering the hard drive inaccessible.
  3. Outdated or incompatible drivers: Using outdated or incompatible drivers can cause conflicts that affect the hard drive's functionality.
  4. Overheating: Excessive heat can shorten the lifespan of a hard drive and cause data loss or system instability.
  5. Power surges: Frequent electrical fluctuations or power outages can damage the hard drive and lead to failure.

Understanding why these problems arise before studying the various ways to resolve the hard drive failure on Windows 10 is crucial because doing so will give you a better idea of the solutions available. Here are three quick fixes for hard drive failure in Windows 10 that you can use. 

Guide 1. Fix Hard Drive Failure on Windows 10 via EaseUS Partition Master

EaseUS Partition Master is a powerful tool that can assist you in resolving hard drive failure issues. One of its key features is the ability to one-click check file system errors on the hard drive. The app is compatible with almost all Windows versions. And its clear interface is friendly to new users.

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Download this tool and follow the steps below to use EaseUS Partition Master to fix hard drive failure on Windows 10:

Step 1. Open EaseUS Partition Master on your computer. Then, locate the disk, right-click the partition you want to check, and choose "Advanced" > "Check File System".

choose Check Partition

Step 2. In the Check File System window, keep the "Try to fix errors if found" option selected and click "Start".

check the pop-up instructions

Step 3. The software will begin checking your partition file system on your disk. When it completes, click "Finish".

finish partition check

Besides checking files system errors on a hard drive, this app has other advanced features, such as:

Download EaseUS Partition Master now to simplify fixing hard drive failure on Windows 10. It offers a user-friendly interface and comprehensive features to ensure efficient disk management.

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Guide 2. Fix Hard Drive Failure on Windows 10 via File Explorer

If you prefer using built-in Windows utilities, File Explorer can be a helpful tool for fixing hard drive failure. Follow the steps below to resolve hard drive issues using File Explorer:

Step 1. Open File Explorer by pressing the Windows key + E on your keyboard.

Step 2. Navigate to "This PC" and locate the drive experiencing failure.

Step 3. Select "Properties" on the drive that has an issue.

Step 4. Navigate the "Tools" tab in the Properties window. (This picture sets the C drive as an example.)

file system to check errors

Step 5. Click the "Check" button under the "Error-checking" column.

Windows will check the drive for problems and make an automatic repair attempt.

On Windows 10, you may diagnose and resolve frequent hard disk failure issues by following the procedures listed above.

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Guide 3. Fix Hard Drive Failure on Windows 10 via CHKDSK Commands

Another powerful built-in Windows utility for fixing hard drive failure is the chkdsk command. Here's how you can utilize this command to address hard drive issues:

Step 1. Open the command prompt via the Windows key and select "run as an administrator.

Step 2. Now type in this command: chkdsk /f c:  Replace [c] with the letter assigned to the problematic drive.

chkdsk

💡If you are using the hard drive, you will be prompted with a message as the picture shows above; just type Y to continue.

Step 3. Press Enter and let the chkdsk command scan the drive for errors and repair them.

Remember to be cautious when using the chkdsk command, as it directly interacts with your hard drive. Ensure you have the correct drive letter and follow the prompts carefully. During the process, you may meet the following issues. Click the links below to fix them.

Can Hard Drive Failure on Windows 10 Be Repaired?

Yes, Windows 10 can be fixed if the hard drive fails. You may troubleshoot and resolve issues relating to hard disk failure by taking the proper procedures, minimizing the chance of data loss, and regaining the functionality of your system. It can be repaired as long as we can diagnose the hard drive and find the causes on a hard drive failure.

Causes of Hard Drive Failure:

Hard drive failure can occur due to various reasons, including:

  • Overheating
  • Power surges
  • Software conflicts
  • Outdated or incompatible drivers
  • Physical damage: dropping or mishandling the hard drive can lead to mechanical failures and data loss.
  • Software errors like corrupted system files, improper shutdowns, or conflicts between software can contribute to hard drive issues.
related articles

How to Tell If a Hard Drive Is Failing with Pictures

Knowing how to tell if a hard drive is failing or not is significantly helpful when your computer pops up some errors, warning you something unusual is occurring.

failing hard drive features

Symptoms of Hard Drive Failure:

Recognizing the symptoms of hard drive failure is crucial for prompt action. Look out for the following signs:

  • Frequent system crashes or freezes.
  • Slow and sluggish performance.
  • Unusual clicking or grinding noises from the hard drive.
  • Inability to boot into the operating system.
  • Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors.
  • Disappearing or corrupted files and folders.

If you encounter hard drive failure on Windows 10, we have already shared the three guides above to fix this error. So, follow the instructions in case of an error.

Also, take backups regularly to prevent data loss and ensure you have copies of important files in case of hard drive failure.

Remember, immediate action and competent troubleshooting can minimize hard disk failure and restore system functionality. If you find this tutorial helpful, please share it with others. 

 

Conclusion

To wrap it up, by following the provided instructions in this article, users can enhance their chances of resolving issues, recovering lost data, and restoring the functionality of their system.

When facing hard drive failure on Windows 10, EaseUS Partition Master is a recommended tool for effectively resolving the issue. With features such as file system error checking, partition management, data recovery, and backup capabilities, EaseUS Partition Master simplifies the process of fixing hard drive failure. 

Fix Hard Drive Failure on Windows 10 FAQs

Refer to the following FAQs if you are facing any issues.

1. How do I fix my hard drive failure?

You can use File Explorer to repair hard drive failure.

  • Hit the Windows key to launch File Explorer.
  • Select 'This PC,' select the failing drive, and click 'Properties.'
  • Switch to the 'Tools' tab,
  • Select the 'Check' button in the 'Error-checking' column.

Windows will try to fix the drive automatically.

2. What causes hard drive failure?

Hard drive failure can be caused by physical damage, such as mishandling or dropping the hard drive, as well as corrupted system files, outdated or incompatible drivers, overheating, power surges, and software conflicts.

3. How to repair C drive on Windows 10?

You can use the chkdsk software with Windows 10 to fix the C drive. The command 'chkdsk C:' should be entered after opening the command prompt as an administrator and changing C to the proper drive letter if necessary. The chkdsk command will scan the drive for errors and repair them.

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About the Author

Updated by Daisy

Daisy is the Senior editor of the writing team for EaseUS. She has been working at EaseUS for over ten years, starting as a technical writer and moving on to being a team leader of the content group. As a professional author for over ten years, she writes a lot to help people overcome their tech troubles.

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Written by Sherly

Sherly joined EaseUS in 2022 and she has always loved writing articles and enjoys the fun they bring. She receives professional training here, focusing on product performance and other relative knowledge. She has written over 200 articles to help people overcome computing issues.

Read full bio

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