Microsoft Windows Error Code 0x800701E3: How to Fix It

Medium 1-4 hours (depending on drive size and whether hardware replacement is needed) High Severity Verified June 2026
Summarize with ChatGPTSummarize with ClaudeSummarize with Perplexity Add as Preferred Source on Google
Error Code
0x800701E3
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
1-4 hours (depending on drive size and whether hardware replacement is needed)
Windows error code 0x800701E3 means a disk I/O (Input/Output) device error has occurred — Windows tried to read from or write to your hard drive, SSD, or external storage device and the operation completely failed. This is a high-severity error because it can signal a failing or corrupted drive, a damaged file system, or a faulty cable or port connection. Left unaddressed, it can lead to permanent data loss, so you should back up any accessible files immediately before attempting repairs.
Ad

Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0x800701E3

  1. Back Up Accessible Data Immediately

    Do NOT skip this step. A disk I/O error can indicate imminent drive failure. Continuing to use the drive without a backup risks permanent, unrecoverable data loss.

  2. Check and Re-seat Physical Connections

    Always unplug the computer from the power outlet before opening the case or touching internal components to avoid electric shock and static damage.

  3. Run Windows Check Disk (CHKDSK)

    Do not interrupt a CHKDSK scan once it has started. Stopping it mid-process can cause additional file system corruption.

  4. Run the Windows Storage Diagnostic (SFC and DISM)

  5. Update or Roll Back Disk Controller and Storage Drivers

  6. Change the Drive Transfer Mode in Device Manager

  7. Run the Manufacturer's Drive Diagnostic Tool

    A drive flagged as failing by a SMART diagnostic should be considered unreliable. Replace it immediately and restore data from your backup.

  8. Update Windows and Check for OS-Level Fixes

  9. Replace the Drive If Hardware Failure Is Confirmed

    Only open your laptop or desktop to replace a drive if you are comfortable doing so. If not, take it to a professional technician to avoid voiding warranties or causing further damage.

Parts You May Need

Replacement internal SSD (2.5-inch SATA or NVMe M.2)
Check Price on Amazon
Replacement internal HDD (3.5-inch SATA)
Check Price on Amazon
SATA data cable
Check Price on Amazon
External USB drive or SSD (for backup)
Check Price on Amazon
USB flash drive (8GB or larger)
Check Price on Amazon
Replacement internal SSD (2.5-inch SATA or NVMe M.2)
Check Price on Amazon
Replacement internal HDD (3.5-inch SATA)
Check Price on Amazon
SATA data cable
Check Price on Amazon
External USB drive or SSD (for backup)
Check Price on Amazon
USB flash drive (8GB or larger)
Check Price on Amazon
Ad

When to Call a Professional

You should contact a professional data recovery service or computer technician if: (1) your drive is not detected at all in BIOS/UEFI or Device Manager; (2) the drive is making clicking, grinding, or beeping noises (signs of physical head or platter failure); (3) the SMART diagnostic reports critical failure and you have not been able to back up your data — professional data recovery labs can sometimes recover data from physically failed drives that software cannot; or (4) you are not comfortable opening your computer case to reseat cables or replace the drive. Do not attempt DIY recovery on a clicking drive, as continued use can permanently destroy remaining data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Windows error code 0x800701E3?
Error 0x800701E3 is caused by a failure in disk I/O (Input/Output) operations. Common causes include a physically failing hard drive or SSD with bad sectors, a loose or damaged SATA/power cable, a corrupted file system, outdated or corrupted storage drivers, faulty USB cables or ports (for external drives), or software conflicts after a Windows Update. In rare cases, the drive controller on the motherboard itself can be at fault.
Will I lose my data because of error 0x800701E3?
Not necessarily, but you are at serious risk of data loss if the underlying cause is a failing drive. If you can still access Windows, back up your files immediately to an external drive or cloud storage. If the error is caused by a software or driver issue, your data is likely safe once the issue is resolved. However, if the drive has physical damage or extensive bad sectors, some data may already be unreadable.
How do I know if my hard drive is failing due to this error?
Download and run a free tool called CrystalDiskInfo or your drive manufacturer's diagnostic software (SeaTools for Seagate, Samsung Magician for Samsung, WD Dashboard for Western Digital). These tools read the drive's SMART data and will show a status of 'Good', 'Caution', or 'Bad'. A 'Caution' or 'Bad' status — especially with reallocated sectors, pending sectors, or uncorrectable errors listed — confirms the drive is physically failing and needs to be replaced.
Can I fix error 0x800701E3 on an external hard drive?
Yes. Start by trying a different USB cable and a different USB port on your computer. Then run CHKDSK on the external drive's drive letter using Command Prompt as administrator (e.g., chkdsk E: /f /r /x). Also test the drive on another computer to isolate whether the issue is with the drive itself or your PC's USB controller. If the drive is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
Does error 0x800701E3 always mean the hard drive needs to be replaced?
No, not always. The error can sometimes be resolved by updating storage drivers, running CHKDSK to repair file system corruption, replacing a faulty SATA cable, or updating Windows. However, if a hardware diagnostic tool confirms bad sectors or a failing SMART status, the drive should be replaced as soon as possible regardless of whether other fixes temporarily resolve the error.

Related Error Codes