I have the error message: Smart hard disk check has detected an imminent failure.

[Tyty96]

A few months ago my PC said it had to update to some 1903 version of windows, I did. But when my computer restarted, I got that message and I have not been able to use my computer since. I keep getting the same message every time. "The Smart hard disk check has detected an imminent failure. I do not know how to backup any files because I cannot get past this issue. My serial number is 5CD4388JP1. 

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

You will have to replace the hard drive and reinstall the operating system.

You may never be able to recover your files, but if you want to throw a little money at the problem, after you replace the drive you can use a SATA to USB cables and plug it into a working PC's USB port and see if you can read and copy any data from the hard drive to the PC.

https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-SATA-USB-Cable-USB3S2SAT3CB/dp/B00HJZJI84/ref=sr_1_3?hvadid=7765...

Below is the link to the service manual for your notebook, where you can find the hard drive removal and replacement procedure.

http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c04763947

If you let me know what operating system you were running before the hard drive died on you, I will give you a free method to reinstall it.

The specs state it came with W8.1, but you may have upgraded to W10 when it was offered for free.