chkdsk won't run

When I try to run chkdsk, I get a message saying the check has already been completed, but it hasn't even run.

Checking file system on c:
The type of the file system is NTFS
Cannot open volume for direct access.
Windows has finished checking the disk.

It's been this way for months. How can I get past this so I can check the disk? The disk is a 250GB SATA drive, MB is MSI P6N SLI with core 2 duo cpu.

 

Hi,
Since I am not sure how you attempted to get it done, I will explain how I did the one I did a few days ago when troubleshooting a computer:
(1) Start - run - type: cmd
(2) Typed: chkdsk c: /f /r
Note: c: = is the drive
/f = is to fix
/r = is to repair
Note: In line 2 don't forget to put a space after c: and /f (space) /r

Reminder: When it says Volume in use, to the best of my knowledge I do believe that is indicating a program is running...So you may have to figure out what's running and temp disable it and then run it...Also, depending on how big your hard drive is, will depend on how long it will run...In my case, it took almost 2 hrs...Keep us posted.

 

I usually get the message that it will be run on a restart. The volume in use message (I think) does mean a program is running but it may also mean that windows is using it in general and it needs to be run at restart so no (or very little) processes are running.

 

Hi LostUser,
I apologize, when that error message comes up about the volume in use, yes it will mention it will start when the computer reboots, and that's okay...Let it do that...If the computer does not reboot on it's own after you type that in (as I explained) and the message comes up, reboot the computer yourself and it will do it's thing...Thank you for checking back on that...Let us know how you make out...

 

More info on my problem

It doesn't matter which way I request a chkdsk run, the result is the same. I can do a command line entry or go to windows explorer and right click on drive c:, then tools>error checking>check now and check both recovery elections. Always the same answer following a restart or complete shutdown and restart.

I suspect the problem is that on restart the system says the disk is not available for direct access. There must be a toggle somewhere in the system software that's stuck and I can't figure out where it is or how to unstick it. That or for some reason the SATA drivers don't allow direct access. But, that's all speculation.

 

Hello ltemplet,

May not be the system, could be one of the major applications. Examples: in the past, one of the earlier versions of ZA firewall interfered with chkdsk. There also seems to be a problem with Eset's new security suite in this regard.

To rule that out, disable apps such as firewall - AV, etc from starting up.

 

Hi,
I am going to step aside and let Charlesvar take over...This will require more of his expertise than I have...

 

Hi MG, no need - "expertise" is a hit or miss thing

 

Hi Charlesvar,
I heat ya' there...Your last suggestion is where I considered going as well.

Attn: Itemplet
Can we inquire with you on what has led you to wanting to do the chkdsk on your computer ??? Maybe there's other roads we can take you down for better results depending on what we hear back from you ??? And then try the chkdsk if still neccessary...

 

Also, you can boot with your WinXP CD and go into fix mode (or whatever it is called...recovery?). There should be nothing running off your hard drive at that point.

Chkdsk should run fine then.

Yes I know I should be more technical...'fix mode' but sometimes the exact words just escape me.

 

Itemplet,
Can you also advise on what Operating System you have...The computer I had to do the chkdsk on was Windows Vista and I kept getting "Access denied due to not having sufficient priviliges "...What was puzzling is, there was only one owner and there was no Admin priviliges to be...So I had to right click on Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator...Then I was off and running...That is why I am asklng...