Windows 8 hard disk error stuck at repairing? Here’s how to fix it.
Overview of Disk Read Errors and Hard Disk Problems
Disk read errors and hard disk problems can cause your Windows 8 computer to get stuck at the “Repairing” stage. This can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to fix the issue.
First, try rebooting your computer and see if that resolves the problem. Sometimes, a simple restart can fix disk read errors.
If that doesn’t work, you can try booting your computer from a boot disk. This is a disk or USB drive that contains a bootable operating system. By booting from this disk, you can bypass any errors on your hard disk and access your computer’s files.
Another option is to check your BIOS settings. Make sure that your hard disk is properly detected and set as the primary boot device. Sometimes, incorrect BIOS settings can cause disk read errors.
If none of these solutions work, it’s possible that your hard disk is failing. In this case, you may need to replace the hard disk. Before doing so, make sure to back up your important files to prevent any data loss.
It’s also worth considering if a computer virus could be causing the issue. Run a full scan with your antivirus software to check for any malware that may be affecting your hard disk.
Causes and Reasons for Disk Read Errors and Hard Disk Problems
Disk read errors and hard disk problems can occur for a variety of reasons. Some common causes include:
1. Master boot record (MBR) corruption: The MBR is responsible for booting your operating system. If it becomes corrupted, you may experience disk read errors or your hard disk may fail to boot properly.
2. Hard disk drive failure: Over time, hard disk drives can develop mechanical issues or experience electrical failures, leading to read errors or complete failures.
3. Computer viruses: Viruses can infect your computer’s file system and cause disk read errors. It’s important to keep your antivirus software up to date to prevent these issues.
4. File system errors: If the file system on your hard disk becomes corrupt, it can lead to read errors and data loss.
5. Bad sectors: Hard disks can develop bad sectors, which are areas of the disk that are physically damaged. These can cause read errors and data loss.
6. Power outages: Sudden power outages or improper shutdowns can result in disk read errors and hard disk problems.
When encountering disk read errors or hard disk problems, you can try the following steps to fix the issue:
1. Check your hard disk connections: Ensure that all cables connecting your hard disk are securely plugged in.
2. Run a disk check: Use the built-in Windows utility, such as chkdsk, to scan and repair any file system errors.
3. Replace the hard disk drive: If your hard disk drive is failing, you may need to replace it with a new one.
4. Scan for viruses: Use your antivirus software to scan your computer for any viruses that may be causing the disk read errors.
By addressing these common causes and following the recommended steps, you can resolve disk read errors and fix hard disk problems.
Solutions to Fix Disk Read Errors and Hard Disk Problems
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
- Wait for the disk check process to complete.
- Restart your computer.
Solution 2: Run System File Checker
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
- Wait for the system file check to finish.
- If any issues are found, restart your computer.
Solution 3: Perform Automatic Repair
- Insert your Windows installation media (DVD or USB).
- Restart your computer.
- Press any key to boot from the installation media.
- Select your language preferences and click Next.
- Click on Repair your computer.
- Select Troubleshoot and then Advanced options.
- Choose Automatic Repair and follow the on-screen instructions.
Solution 4: Rebuild BCD (Boot Configuration Data)
- Insert your Windows installation media (DVD or USB).
- Restart your computer.
- Press any key to boot from the installation media.
- Select your language preferences and click Next.
- Click on Repair your computer.
- Select Troubleshoot and then Command Prompt.
- Type bootrec /fixmbr and press Enter.
- Type bootrec /fixboot and press Enter.
- Type bootrec /rebuildbcd and press Enter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
python
import wmi
def get_smart_data():
c = wmi.WMI()
physical_disks = c.Win32_DiskDrive()
for disk in physical_disks:
if "Windows 8" in disk.Model:
print(f"Hard Disk Model: {disk.Model}")
print(f"Serial Number: {disk.SerialNumber}")
# Check if SMART is supported
if disk.SmartStatusSupported:
smart_data = disk.GetSmartData()
# Retrieve SMART attributes
for attr in smart_data:
print(f"ID: {attr.AttributeID}")
print(f"Name: {attr.AttributeName}")
print(f"Value: {attr.Value}")
print(f"Status: {attr.Threshold}")
print("-----------------------------")
else:
print("SMART not supported on this disk.")
get_smart_data()
This code utilizes the `wmi` library in Python to connect to the Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) API and retrieve SMART data from the hard disk. It searches for the hard disk model containing “Windows 8” and then fetches the SMART attributes if the disk supports SMART.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Disk Read Errors and Hard Disk Problems
- Regularly update and maintain your operating system:
- Keep your Windows 8 operating system up to date with the latest updates and patches.
- Regularly perform system maintenance tasks such as running disk cleanup and disk defragmentation.
- Install and update reliable antivirus software:
- Install a reputable antivirus program on your computer.
- Regularly update the antivirus software to ensure it has the latest virus definitions.
- Perform regular full system scans to detect and remove any malware or viruses.
- Avoid sudden power loss:
- Use an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to prevent sudden power loss due to outages or fluctuations.
- Save your work frequently and properly shut down your computer before turning off the power.
- Handle your hard disk drive with care:
- Avoid dropping, hitting, or mishandling your computer or hard disk drive.
- Avoid exposing your hard disk drive to extreme temperatures or moisture.
- Backup your important data:
- Regularly back up your important files and data to an external storage device or cloud storage.
- Use reliable backup software or built-in Windows backup tools to automate the backup process.
- Monitor and address early warning signs:
- Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from your hard disk drive.
- Monitor the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) status of your hard disk drive using specialized software.
- If you notice any warning signs or errors, back up your data immediately and consider seeking professional help.
Creating a Bootable Media and Changing BIOS Settings for Disk Read Errors
To fix a Windows 8 hard disk error that is stuck at repairing, you can try creating a bootable media and changing BIOS settings. These steps can help resolve disk read errors and get your system back up and running.
First, you’ll need to create a bootable media. This can be done by using a USB flash drive or a DVD. To create a bootable USB drive, follow these steps:
1. Insert a USB flash drive into your computer.
2. Open the Windows 8 Start menu and search for “Create a recovery drive.”
3. Click on the search result and follow the on-screen instructions to create the recovery drive.
4. Once the process is complete, safely eject the USB drive from your computer.
Next, you’ll need to change the BIOS settings to boot from the bootable media. Here’s how:
1. Restart your computer and press the appropriate key (usually F2, F12, or Del) to enter the BIOS menu. The key may vary depending on your computer manufacturer, so refer to your computer’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.
2. In the BIOS menu, navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Options” section.
3. Change the boot priority so that the USB drive or DVD drive is the first boot option.
4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS menu.
With the bootable media created and the BIOS settings changed, you can now boot your computer from the USB drive or DVD. This will allow you to access advanced recovery options and potentially fix the hard disk error that is stuck at repairing.
Recovering Data and Checking and Repairing Hard Disk Errors
Step | Description |
---|---|
Step 1 | Connect your hard disk to another computer using an external enclosure or SATA to USB adapter. |
Step 2 | Access the connected hard disk from the other computer. |
Step 3 | Copy all important data and files from the hard disk to a safe location. |
Disabling Error Messages and Dealing with Unexpected Hard Disk Problems
To disable error messages and handle unexpected hard disk problems in Windows 8, you can follow these steps:
1. Start by booting your computer from a boot disk or USB drive. This will allow you to access the advanced startup options.
2. Once you’re in the advanced startup options, select “Troubleshoot” and then “Advanced options”.
3. From the advanced options menu, choose “Command Prompt”.
4. In the Command Prompt window, type “chkdsk C: /f” and press Enter. This command will scan your hard disk for errors and fix them.
5. If the above command doesn’t work, you can try “sfc /scannow” to scan and repair system files.
6. If you’re still experiencing issues, you can try disabling error messages by going to the Control Panel and selecting “System and Security”. Then, click on “System” and go to the “Advanced system settings” tab. Under the “Startup and Recovery” section, click on “Settings” and then uncheck the box next to “Automatically restart” under the “System failure” section.
7. Finally, make sure to regularly backup your important files and consider running a disk cleanup and defragmentation to optimize your hard disk’s performance.

Darrell Friedman is a seasoned technology writer for helptechportal.com, with a keen interest in cybersecurity and privacy. Holding a degree in Information Systems and Security, Darrell’s expertise allows him to provide readers with valuable insights on protecting their digital lives. When not writing about tech, Darrell enjoys hiking, photography, and building custom PCs.