Hard disk can’t be recognized but after retried several times the hard disk can run normally.

[Victor47]

My notebook bought 8 years ago and seldom has problem. Just hit boot up failed that cannot recognizes hard disk. By using diagnostic on start up menu, the program said hard disk is failed. It was the second time I hit the problem. The first one should be one to two years ago. It’s a bit luck today. With unknown reasons, the hard disk can work again. When seeing the Windows screen, it is likely running Windows update with counting till 100%. Now login and logout are normal. Do anyone know what exactly is the problem what my notebook. Is it too old or having some hidden problem somewhere?  How can I know?

[WAWood]

@Victor47 

A laptop that old could easily have the "hidden problem" of the drive connection cable having worked loose over time.  The laptop drives DO vibrate and over years of use, that CAN result in the connection cable working loose.  When that happens you will intermittently get error messages about the drive not being found.

IF your model has a drive access panel, I would open that and check to see that the drive connection cable is firmly seated on the drive.  Then, close the panel.

If it does not have a panel, I would recommend against trying to open the case yourself, as it is easy to break or damage the internal components when doing that.  You should see if there is a local laptop repair facility that will do it for you for a reasonable price.