failed HDD test -should I install new HDD?

[hautemarnechris]

My PC failed the "Targeted Read Test" error code WHD20-V14 - should I replace the HDD? There are 4 bad sectors on the HDD (HD Tune gives 5 bad blocks.

I've had boot problems with this machine for some time but thought the source was probably the PSU.

Should I really replace the HDD for what seems like a small number of bad blocks?

Chris

[hautemarnechris]

Should add that I've used chkdsk /r a couple of times which usually fixes the Windows boot problem.

[PCD_Sam]

Hello hautemarnechris,

I'm sorry to hear you are having issues with your hard drives! However (depending who you ask) it is usually not a death sentence for that hard drive. There are several methods you can use to fix bad sectors

• Use the utility built into Microsoft Windows (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-vista/check-your-hard-disk-for-errors)
• See if the manufacturor of your Hard Drive has utility software to repair bad sectors (SeaTools for Seagate is an example or chkdsk)
  
• Back up your data and then erase the drive doing a zero fill and start from scratch

But since you have run chkdsk and it seems to only temporarily fix the problem then your hard drive may indeed be approaching end of life. Now there are mixed thoughts on the amount of bad sectors needed to replace a hard drive. Some argue 1 bad sector is too many and some will say more than 10. 5 bad sectors is on the high end, so if you choose to keep your HD please be sure to back up your data! Also if the number of bad sectors starts to increase I wouldn't let it go beyond 10 before purchasing a new drive.

[hautemarnechris]

Thanks for the advice. Will change the HDD.