A rising Spin Retry Count is most likely to indicate what?

• A. Power fluctuations.
• B. No issue.
• C. Improved reliability.
• D. Motor/bearing failure — replace drive.

Answer: (D)

A rising Spin Retry Count means the drive is having increasing trouble spinning up the platters. Each retry happens when the disk tries to start but stalls, usually due to not getting enough torque to overcome static friction. When this count climbs over time, it points to mechanical wear or impending failure in the spindle motor or bearings—the parts that actually get the disks spinning. This is a warning sign that the drive is deteriorating, so replacing the drive (and backing up data) is the prudent course. Occasional spin-up hiccups can occur from power quirks, but a persistent upward trend strongly indicates motor/bearing issues rather than a normal condition.