Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: How to ignore a specific SMART error

Configure SMART daemon to ignore specific error

Quick Answer: Use the smartd.conf file to add a "Ignore" directive for the specific error code.

The SMART error you're experiencing is a warning that indicates an unreadable sector on your hard drive. This issue can be frustrating, especially when it appears daily in email notifications. However, ignoring this specific error may not address the underlying cause and could potentially lead to more severe problems down the line.

Ignoring this specific error is a viable workaround since you've confirmed the disk remains stable and working despite the issue.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • The SMART error occurs due to an unreadable sector on your hard drive, which can be caused by physical damage, overheating, or other external factors. Over time, this sector may become increasingly unreadable, triggering repeated notifications.
  • Another possible cause is a software-related issue, such as a misconfigured disk driver or a corrupted system file.

🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps

Configuring the SMART daemon to Ignore Specific Errors

  1. Step 1: Open your terminal and run the following command to check the smartd configuration: `smartctl -a /dev/sdb` This will display the current settings for the disk. Look for the 'Ignore' option, which is currently set to 'no'.
  2. Step 2: Edit the smartd configuration file `/etc/smartconf.d/sd-bios.conf` using a text editor (e.g., `nano`). Locate the line starting with `Ignore=`, and replace it with the following: `Ignore=/dev/sdb/11`. This will instruct smartd to ignore this specific error for device /dev/sdb. Save and close the file.
  3. Step 3: Restart the smartd service to apply the changes: `service smartd restart` or `systemctl restart smartd` (depending on your system's configuration).

Alternative Workaround: Ignore Emails Containing Specific Text

  1. Step 1: Configure your email client to ignore emails containing specific text. This will prevent you from receiving daily notifications about the same error.
  2. Step 2: Use a search filter or keyword in your email client's settings to block messages with the exact phrase 'Device: /dev/sdb [SAT], 11 Currently unreadable (pending) sectors'.

✨ Wrapping Up

By configuring the SMART daemon to ignore specific errors or setting up an alternative workaround, you can effectively address this issue without compromising your system's stability. Remember to regularly check your disk's health and perform maintenance tasks as needed to ensure optimal performance.

Did this fix your problem?

If not, try searching for specific error codes.

🔍 Search Error Database

❓ Frequently Asked Questions