Storage · high

How to fixCHKDSK-STAGE3-STUCK

Chkdsk is stuck on stage 3 or 4

What this error means

CHKDSK-STAGE3-STUCK is a high-severity storage drive (SSD/HDD) problem. The chkdsk disk checker is stuck at stage 3 (Security Descriptors) or 4 and is not progressing. It's most often caused by extremely large number of file system errors, bad sectors on the HDD slow down the operation for hours and the hard drive is physically damaged and takes too long to read. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Let chkdsk finish - for HDDs, phase 3 can take hours

Let chkdsk finish - for HDDs, phase 3 can take hours.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Data backup is priority number 1

Data backup is priority number 1.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03If chkdsk does not progress for 12+ hours, do a backup and replace the drive

If chkdsk does not progress for 12+ hours, do a backup and replace the drive.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Extremely large number of file system errors
  • Bad sectors on the HDD slow down the operation for hours
  • The hard drive is physically damaged and takes too long to read