HP Pavillion G6 Startup Problems

[Sdias26]

I have an HP Pavillion G6 with Windows 7. I keep trying to start up the computer but it won't let me start Windows normally and forces me to go through Startup Repair. I have tried booting in safe mode and normal mode but each time it goes through Startup repair and the repair just continually runs without doing anything . I let it run for 45mins without any changes and then forced the laptop to shut off. What can I do to start my laptop normally?

Product number: LW259UA#ABA

[DavidPK]

Hi,

Shut down the notebook.  Tap away at the esc key as you start the notebook to enter the Start-up Menu.  Select the Bios option ( usually f10 ) and under the Advanced or Diagnostic tab you should find the facility to run tests on both the Hard Drive and Memory.  Post back with the details of any error messages.

Regards,

DP-K

[Sdias26]

I ran the Memory test and that came back fine. But when I did the primary hard disk self test - this message came up:

Hard Disk 1 Quick (303)

But I don't know if this is necessarily an error message.

[DavidPK · Accepted solution]

Hi,

The 303 error code for the short Disk Self Test would indicate that the Hard Drive is failing and needs to be replaced.  This is also consistent with the start-up issue.

If your notebook is still under warranty, contact HP and arrange to have the drive replaced - you can check your warranty status Here.

If you live in the US, contact HP Here.

If you are in another part of the world, start Here.

If you are out of warranty and would like a guide on replacing the Hard Drive yourself, please let me know.

Regards,

DP-K

[Sdias26]

I would like a guide to replace the hard drive myself.

Does this mean I have lost all the information on my current hard drive?

[DavidPK]

Hi,

Firstly, regarding your existing files, one possible way to try and retrieve your files from a non-booting drive is to follow the process detailed in the link below.  The Ubuntu operating system CD you create can run from the CD alone ( ie it doesn't have to install on the Hard Drive ) and I've often found it to be successful in retrieving data even from a failing Hard Drive.  When you've created the CD, follow the instructions and see if you can back up your existing files. 

http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/use-ubuntu-live-cd-to-backup-files-from-your-dead-windo...

*********************

Regarding replacing your HDD, the drive on the link below is an example of one that would be fine for your notebook.

750Gb Notebook Hard Drive.

The procedure to replace the Hard Drive starts on Page 50 of your Maintenance & Service Guide.

Once done, simply use your Recovery DVDs to reinstall the Operating System on the new drive - this procedure is described in the HP document Here.

If you don't have your Recovery Discs, you can order a replacement set using the link below.

Order HP Recovery Discs.

If you have any problem with this link, order them directly from HP.

If you live in the US, contact HP Here.

If you are in another part of the world, start Here.

Regards,

DP-K