How to repair a corrupted USB drive

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To repair a corrupted USB drive, users can utilize built-in tools such as Windows Error Checking, Disk Management, or Command Prompt utilities. Alternatively, third-party software can be employed for more complex repairs.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the repair process, ensure you have the following:
  • •A computer running Windows 10 or 11, macOS, or Linux.
  • •Administrator permissions to run repair tools.
  • •Backup of important data from the USB drive, if accessible.
  • •Access to a reliable USB repair tool, if needed.

Method 1: Using Windows Error Checking Tool

This method is ideal for users who prefer a built-in solution to check for and fix file system errors.
  • •Step 1: Insert the corrupted USB drive into your computer.
  • •Step 2: Open 'This PC' (Windows + E), right-click on the USB drive, and select 'Properties'.
  • •Step 3: Navigate to the 'Tools' tab and click on 'Check' under the Error checking section.
  • •Step 4: Follow the prompts to scan and repair the drive. If errors are found, select 'Repair drive'.
  • •Step 5: Once the process is complete, a message will indicate whether the drive was repaired successfully.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users will find a slightly updated interface but the steps remain largely the same.
  • •Step 1: Open 'File Explorer' (Windows + E) and select 'This PC'.
  • •Step 2: Right-click on the USB drive and select 'Properties'.
  • •Step 3: Click on the 'Tools' tab, then 'Check' under Error checking.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow the same steps as Windows 11, with minor interface differences.
  • •Step 1: Open 'File Explorer' (Windows + E) and navigate to 'This PC'.
  • •Step 2: Right-click on the USB drive and select 'Properties'.
  • •Step 3: In the 'Tools' tab, click 'Check' under Error checking.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt

This method is suitable for users comfortable with command-line tools and is effective for deeper repairs.
  • •Step 1: Press Windows + R, type 'cmd', and hit Enter to open Command Prompt.
  • •Step 2: Type 'chkdsk X: /f' (replace X with your USB drive letter) and press Enter.
  • •Step 3: Wait for the process to complete. It will display any errors found and whether they were fixed.
  • •Step 4: If errors persist, consider using 'chkdsk X: /r' to locate bad sectors and recover readable information.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the repair process does not work as expected, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'The disk is write-protected' - Solution: Remove write protection via the physical switch on the USB drive or use Diskpart to clear the attribute.
  • •Issue: USB drive not recognized - Fix: Try a different USB port or computer, or check for driver updates in Device Manager.
  • •Problem: 'Drive is not formatted' - Workaround: Use data recovery software to attempt recovery before formatting.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips and shortcuts:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Windows + X - Opens the Quick Link menu for quick access to Disk Management.
  • •Command line: 'diskpart' - Use this command to manage disks, partitions, and volumes.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Format' option in Disk Management - Access this by right-clicking the USB drive and selecting 'Format' to erase and reset the drive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, combine multiple methods when repairing a corrupted USB drive, starting with the simplest.