So my WD just failed a SMART test

[Cawchy87]

I have had this dell for 4 years now, and It just failed WD diagnostics SMART test. Do I have to run out and buy a new drive right now? Or do I have a week or so? Clearly I am going to back up the important stuff to DVD.

The drive is not clicking or making other odd noises.

 

[biostud]

As with any failure...... it's impossible to say when it happens, could be within an hour could be weeks.

 

[Googer]

Originally posted by: Cawchy87
I have had this dell for 4 years now, and It just failed WD diagnostics SMART test. Do I have to run out and buy a new drive right now? Or do I have a week or so? Clearly I am going to back up the important stuff to DVD.

The drive is not clicking or making other odd noises.

Some drives fail the S.M.A.R.T. test but that does not mean they are in serious trouble, it all depends on what part of the test they failed. If you have a bad sector then you need not worry much but if the Actuator voice coil is going bad then it is cause for concern. What exactly were the results from the S.M.A.R.T. test?

 

[Slowlearner]

Do further testing with WD's Data Lifeguard Tools or Diagnostics avialable from their website - this will also help if you do need warranty service.