Hardware⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-19

How to Fix: Is my SSD drive going bad? SMART error

SMART error on SSD drive: check for firmware updates and monitor powered-up time.

Quick Answer: Check for firmware updates and monitor the powered-up time to determine if your SSD drive is going bad.

The SMART error log indicates that your SSD drive is experiencing issues, which can be frustrating and potentially lead to data loss. However, since it's still under warranty, you can replace it.

SMART errors on SSD drives are often caused by wear and tear, power cycles, or other environmental factors. In this guide, we'll walk you through the root causes of SMART errors on SSD drives and provide methods for troubleshooting and resolving the issue.

🛑 Root Causes of the Error

  • The primary reason for SMART errors on SSD drives is wear and tear. As your SSD writes data to its internal flash memory, it can experience physical degradation over time. This can lead to errors in the drive's ability to read and write data. The 'Powered_Up_Time' value indicates how long the drive has been powered on, which can also contribute to SMART errors.
  • Another possible cause of SMART errors is power cycles or electrical surges. These events can stress the drive's internal components, leading to errors in the SMART log.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Run a Diagnostic Test

  1. Step 1: Download and install a diagnostic tool such as CrystalDiskInfo or HD Tune to scan your SSD for errors.
  2. Step 2: Launch the diagnostic tool and select the 'SMART' tab. The tool will display your SSD's SMART status, including any error codes or warnings.
  3. Step 3: If you see any error codes in the SMART log, take note of them and proceed to the next step.

Update Firmware

  1. Step 1: Check with the manufacturer to see if there are any firmware updates available for your SSD. Firmware updates can often resolve issues related to SMART errors.
  2. Step 2: Download and install the latest firmware update from the manufacturer's website or through their software.

💡 Conclusion

SMART errors on SSD drives can be frustrating, but they're often preventable by taking steps to maintain your drive's health. By running a diagnostic test and checking for firmware updates, you can help identify and resolve any issues with your SSD.

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