Laptop BitLocker failing on drive with seek errors

4.5

The drive head cannot accurately find the correct track on the platter.

Symptoms
  • Clicking
  • Slow access
  • Error message
Possible Causes
  • Mechanical failure
  • High temperature
  • Servo failure

Step-by-Step Fix

1

Check SMART Attribute 7

Monitor "Seek Error Rate".

2

Cool Down Drive

Heat can cause mechanical components to expand and miss tracks.

3

Replace Drive

Seek errors indicate a failing actuator arm.

When to See a Technician

Seek errors are a purely mechanical issue; no software fix exists for a failing actuator.

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