Fixing Error Code 0x800701E3 – Data Transfer or Disk I/O Error

Error code 0x800701E3 is a common Windows error that typically occurs during data transfers from one drive to another—especially from a hard disk drive (HDD) or external USB drive. This error usually reads:

“The request failed due to a fatal device hardware error. (0x800701E3)”

It often indicates that your drive is having trouble reading or writing data, which may point to bad sectors, file system corruption, or even impending drive failure.

🔍 What Causes Error 0x800701E3?

Here are the most common triggers:

1. Bad Sectors on the Drive

This is the leading cause. If your hard drive or external storage has bad sectors, Windows may fail to read or write to it, triggering the error.

2. Corrupted File System

If the file system is damaged, data may become unreadable or inaccessible. File structure issues often result from improper ejection or sudden power loss.

3. Faulty USB or SATA Cable

A loose or defective data cable can interrupt the connection, especially during large file transfers.

4. Outdated or Corrupt Drivers

Driver issues can cause system miscommunication with storage devices, especially if the device isn’t properly recognized.

5. Failing Hard Drive

If the error is consistent and the drive is old or makes clicking noises, it could be failing physically.

🛠️ How to Fix Error Code 0x800701E3

✅ Step 1: Check Disk Health with CHKDSK

Use the built-in Check Disk utility to scan for bad sectors:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator

Type the command:

bash

Copy

Edit

chkdsk X: /f /r /x

Replace X: with your drive letter.

/f – Fixes errors

/r – Locates bad sectors and recovers readable data

/x – Forces the drive to dismount before the scan

🔄 This may take several hours depending on drive size.

✅ Step 2: Try a Different USB Port or Cable

Sometimes the issue is as simple as a loose USB connection. Switch to a different USB port or use a new cable to rule out hardware failure on the interface side.

✅ Step 3: Check SMART Status

WD Data Lifeguard (for Western Digital drives)

These tools can show if the drive is in “Caution” or “Bad” status, indicating physical problems.

✅ Step 4: Backup Your Data Immediately

If SMART or CHKDSK reveals serious issues, back up your data immediately. Transfer the files in small portions, prioritizing important documents and photos.

✅ Step 5: Format the Drive (If Necessary)

If the drive passes basic health checks but still throws the error:

Backup what you can

Right-click the drive > Format

Choose NTFS or exFAT and perform a full format

This can sometimes bypass bad sectors and refresh the file system.

⚠️ Final Note

If the error persists after these steps, the drive is likely failing. In such cases, consider replacing the hard drive or contacting a data recovery specialist.

Pro Tip: Always safely eject your external drives and perform routine disk checks to prevent data corruption and future errors like 0x800701E3.