10 Sep Signs of a Failing HDD

Computer hardware has rapidly evolved over the past decade, achieving new highs in performance and reliability. This is especially the case when it comes to system memory. The introduction of SSDs – or “solid-state drives” – expedites the speed and safety of a machine. It does so because, in simplest terms, all its memory operations are performed electronically via flash memory.

However, that’s not the case with HDDs, the hard disc drive. Before the inexpensive implementation of SSDs, hard drives were the go-to for memory. In a lot of cases, they still are. Buyers can find massive storage caches, ranging from 1 to 4TB, for economical prices. Where such memory caches were once expensive and harder to acquire, it’s easy to find large-space HDDs for equally affordable pricing.

There is, however, a trade-off. Hard disc drives operate by writing, reading, and storing memory via physical action – the rotating disc. The disc spins when it performs any operation. Over time and the longer the HDD is used, it runs a higher risk of failure. The estimated lifetime of an HDD – depending on use – can range between 2 to 5 years. Those with careful usage can see lifespans of up to a decade, though it varies case by case.

If you have used a computer system with a physical drive for several years, it’s likely that the HDD will eventually fail.

Signs and Symptoms of an Exhausted Hard Drive

Failing HDD is a serious concern. Any program, file, and media not backed up will be permanently lost in the event of HDD failure. Some recovery services do exist, but the rule of thumb is what’s lost is lost. Therefore, catching early failure signs is critical if you suspect your HDD might be at the end of its service life.

There are a variety of red flags indicating the HDD is on its last legs. It’s important to know these warning signs, so you don’t misdiagnose your system. Troubleshooting is a big part of PC maintenance, and getting it wrong about a failing HDD is stressful and time-consuming. For example, a drop in performance with computer slowdowns could indicate a failing HDD, or it could be caused by a variety of other problems.

Common and definitive issues caused by an HDD relate to specific performance speeds and behaviors.

Read, Write, and Memory Errors

The internal warning signs of a failing hard drive encompass its ability to write, store, and read data. Files taking longer than normal to save (especially small ones), randomly corrupted files, or losing the ability to save/transfer files outright are immediate signs the HDD is failing.

Mechanical Failures and Sounds

The HDD, as mentioned, uses physical parts to accomplish memory tasks. These parts wear down over time, which is the primary reason that a failing HDD is inevitable. At some point, a physical component of the HDD will be given out. When they do, the HDD in question typically makes different sounds, such as excessive disc rotation noises or the dreaded “click of death.”

Age is one of the primary culprits. Damage to the HDD can also cause this, or the use of cheaper off-brand hard drives. Catching these sounds is critical, because they indicate an HDD failure is imminent. In fact, clicking or other grinding sounds imply the HDD will fail very shortly, requiring an immediate change if possible.

If you have an HDD that’s been in use for several years, especially heavy use, this is a key sign the HDD will fail soon.

Frequent Crashes, Errors, and Reduced Performance

Another set of HDD failure symptoms involves performance and crashes. Spontaneous errors while your system is running on standby (no programs active) are alarms the HDD is losing functionality. Blue screen crashes also point to a failing hard drive, especially if they occur with higher frequency.

Performance drawbacks are a given too. For instance, saving, transferring, or storing files takes longer than usual (or doesn’t work at all). Since the hard drive performs read functions, it will drag on all other system processes. If you’re used to streamlining performance but notice drags in system operations, it’s another red flag the HDD is reaching an end-of-life scenario.

Bad Sectors, File Corruption, and Lost Files

Another alarm pointing towards a failing hard drive is loss of file integrity. Files that are randomly corrupt, go missing or create “bad sectors” occur during HDD failure. Lost and corrupt files are self-explanatory, meaning that they self-delete without user intervention or become inaccessible. Bad sectors occur when parts of the hard drive’s memory are no longer usable due to corrupted data.

File corruption is an earlier symptom of HDD failure, signifying that its primary functions are no longer performing normally.

Overheating and Failure to Boot

System temperature is a serious concern. When it’s too high, it causes system crashes and in extreme cases permanently damages components. Overheating is also a symptom of a failing HDD, as computational processes are increased or slowed, increasing the overall system temp.

Another problematic symptom and indicator of a failing HDD is a total failure to boot. In this stage, only the BIOS is accessible. Otherwise, the system will not boot at all, preventing a user from accessing their computer system.

These are concerning issues, both stressful and frightening. The key to HDD prevention is early detection, backup, and replacement.

Detecting a failing HDD

Risk detection for a potentially failing hard drive is the best way to prevent unwanted loss of data. If you suspect your HDD is failing or showing any signs we’ve discussed so far, doing a few checks can alert you to a dying hard drive.

It’s also worth performing a routine check every few months, even if your computer has not shown problematic signs.

For instance, utilizing Windows’ command prompt function can provide quick insight into the health of a hard drive. By using the “wmic diskdrive get status” command, Windows will perform a disc drive check. A healthy hard drive will read “ok,” but a failing one will report status problems.

It’s also worth checking the health of other components or statuses (such as system temperature) to form a complete picture of your computer’s overall health, and whether the hard drive is at risk of failing.

In the event you suspect HDD failure, it’s important to act quickly. Backup all relevant files and media to portable drives, such as flash media or external drives (SSDs are preferable). Cloud drives can also automatically back up your files and documents where needed.

If you have legacy software, ensure you have the proper installation keys, as software cannot be backed up on external drives like regular files.

Final Tips

Ultimately, the best way to manage failing hard drives is to be well-prepared. If you have critical files, make extensive use of backup media. As mentioned, cloud services, flash drives, and external solid-state drives are highly recommended. Always have a way to access your documents, photos, videos, and other important files from a secondary source.

For additional assistance and help, reach out to Bytagig. Contact us today for more information.