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How to Fix CHKDSK Cannot Continue in Read-Only Mode

18.12.2025 No comments yet
chkdsk cannot continue in read-only mode

Seeing the error message “CHKDSK cannot continue in read-only mode” can be frustrating, especially when you are trying to fix disk errors or access important files. This issue often appears when running CHKDSK from Command Prompt and prevents the utility from repairing file system problems.

In real-world scenarios, users usually encounter this error after an unexpected shutdown, file system corruption, or when Windows detects potential disk issues. In some cases, attempting repeated fixes may even lead to accidental data loss.

This guide explains what CHKDSK cannot continue in read-only mode means, why it happens, and how to resolve it safely. For situations where data goes missing during the repair process, we will also explain when and why using Magic Data Recovery is a practical solution.

Download Magic Data Recovery

Supports Windows 7/8/10/11 and Windows Server

Table of Contents

What Does “CHKDSK Cannot Continue in Read-Only Mode” Mean?

When CHKDSK runs in read-only mode, it only scans the disk and reports errors. It does not make any changes to fix them. The message “CHKDSK cannot continue in read-only mode” indicates that Windows has locked the drive or restricted write access, preventing repairs.

In simple terms:

  • CHKDSK can see the problems
  • CHKDSK cannot fix the problems

This typically happens when the target drive is in use, write-protected, or flagged as read-only by the system.

Common Scenarios That Trigger This Error

Understanding the context helps you choose the right fix. Below are the most common situations where CHKDSK cannot continue in read-only mode appears.

Running CHKDSK on the System Drive

If you try to run CHKDSK on drive C: while Windows is running, the system prevents direct repairs because critical files are in use.

File System Corruption After Power Failure

Sudden power loss or forced shutdowns often leave the file system in an inconsistent state. Windows may mount the drive as read-only to avoid further damage.

External Drive or USB Set to Read-Only

Some external drives, SD cards, or USB devices have hardware locks or firmware-level write protection that blocks CHKDSK repairs.

Insufficient Administrator Privileges

Running Command Prompt without administrator rights can cause CHKDSK to default to read-only mode.

Bad Sectors or Disk Health Issues

If Windows detects potential hardware failure, it may restrict write operations as a precaution.

How to Check If a Drive Is in Read-Only Mode

Before applying fixes, confirm whether the disk is truly read-only.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type:
diskpart
  1. Then enter:
list volume
  1. Select the target volume:
select volume X
  1. Check attributes:
attributes volume

If the read-only attribute is enabled, CHKDSK will not be able to proceed.

How to Fix CHKDSK Cannot Continue in Read-Only Mode

Below are proven solutions, ordered from safest to more advanced. Apply them step by step.

Fix 1: Run CHKDSK with Repair Parameters

A scan-only command will always remain in read-only mode. Make sure you include repair switches.

chkdsk X: /f /r
  • /f fixes file system errors
  • /r locates bad sectors and recovers readable data

Replace X: with the correct drive letter.

Fix 2: Schedule CHKDSK at System Restart

For the system drive, Windows must reboot to unlock files.

  1. Run:
chkdsk C: /f /r
  1. When prompted, type Y.
  2. Restart your computer.

This allows CHKDSK to operate outside of read-only mode.

Fix 3: Remove Read-Only Attributes Using DiskPart

If the disk is locked:

diskpart
list volume
select volume X
attributes volume clear readonly
exit

After clearing the attribute, run CHKDSK again.

Fix 4: Check and Repair System Files

Corrupted system components may interfere with disk repairs.

sfc /scannow

Once completed, retry the CHKDSK command.

Fix 5: Run CHKDSK from Windows Recovery Environment

Booting into WinRE avoids file locks.

  1. Restart and enter Advanced Startup.
  2. Open Command Prompt.
  3. Run:
chkdsk X: /f /r

This method is especially effective when CHKDSK cannot continue in read-only mode due to active services.

Will CHKDSK Cause Data Loss?

In most cases, CHKDSK is safe. However, during severe corruption or bad sector repair, Windows may remove damaged file entries. This can make files appear missing after the repair.

Common signs of data loss include:

  • Files disappearing after CHKDSK completes
  • Folders converted into .CHK files
  • Drive showing reduced used space

When this happens, stopping further write operations becomes critical.

Recovering Lost Data After CHKDSK Failure

If data is missing after encountering CHKDSK cannot continue in read-only mode or after a forced repair, specialized recovery software offers a safer alternative.

Why Magic Data Recovery Is Recommended

Magic Data Recovery is designed to handle post-CHKDSK data loss scenarios without risking further damage.

Core problems it solves:

  • Files lost after disk repair attempts
  • Data hidden or orphaned by CHKDSK
  • Partitions affected by file system corruption

Key advantages:

  • Read-only scanning to protect existing data
  • Supports recovery from HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, and SD cards
  • Deep scan capability for corrupted file systems
  • Preview files before recovery

Typical use cases:

  • Recovering documents after CHKDSK removed corrupted entries
  • Restoring photos and videos from external drives
  • Retrieving files when Windows cannot mount the drive properly

Compared to repeated CHKDSK attempts, Magic Data Recovery minimizes write operations and reduces the risk of permanent data loss.

If you are looking for a safer and more efficient solution, Magic Data Recovery is worth considering.

Download Magic Data Recovery

Supports Windows 7/8/10/11 and Windows Server

Best Practices to Avoid This Error in the Future

  • Always back up important data before running CHKDSK
  • Safely eject external storage devices
  • Avoid interrupting disk repair processes
  • Monitor disk health using SMART tools
  • Act early when Windows reports file system errors

These steps reduce the chances of encountering CHKDSK cannot continue in read-only mode again.

Conclusion

The error CHKDSK cannot continue in read-only mode usually signals restricted disk access rather than a CHKDSKfailure itself. By identifying the cause and applying the correct fix, most users can restore normal disk repair functionality.

However, when disk corruption leads to missing or inaccessible files, relying solely on CHKDSK may increase risk. In such cases, Magic Data Recovery provides a more reliable and data-safe approach to file restoration.

Choosing the right solution at the right time is the key to protecting both your storage device and your data.

FAQs

1. How to disable read only mode in cmd?

You can disable read-only mode using DiskPart in Command Prompt with administrator privileges. First, open CMD as admin, then type diskpart. Select the affected volume using list volume and select volume X. Finally, run attributes volume clear readonly. After clearing the attribute, rerun CHKDSK with repair parameters.

2. Which is better, CHKDSK /r or /f?

CHKDSK /f fixes logical file system errors, while /r scans for bad sectors and attempts to recover readable data. If you suspect disk surface issues or bad sectors, /r is more comprehensive. However, it takes longer to complete. In most serious error scenarios, using /f /r together provides the most thorough repair.

3. How to fix disk read only?

To fix a disk stuck in read-only mode, first check whether it is write-protected via DiskPart. Clearing the read-only attribute often resolves the issue. If the problem persists, check for file system corruption with CHKDSK, update disk drivers, or test the drive on another computer. For external devices, also verify that no physical lock is enabled.

4. Will CHKDSK fix bad sectors?

CHKDSK can detect bad sectors and mark them as unusable using the /r parameter. It may also recover readable data from those sectors. However, CHKDSK cannot physically repair damaged sectors. If bad sectors continue to increase, the disk may be failing and data recovery should be prioritized.

5. Why is CHKDSK running in read only mode?

CHKDSK runs in read-only mode when Windows prevents write access to the disk. This usually happens if the drive is currently in use, mounted as read-only, lacks administrator permissions, or is flagged by the system due to potential hardware or file system risks.

6. How do I get off read only mode?

To exit read-only mode, make sure you run Command Prompt as an administrator, clear disk or volume read-only attributes, and ensure the drive is not actively used by Windows. For system drives, scheduling CHKDSK at reboot or running it from Windows Recovery Environment is often required.

7. Is it safe to stop CHKDSK /r?

Stopping CHKDSK /r while it is running is not recommended. Interrupting the process may leave the file system in an inconsistent state and increase the risk of data loss. If CHKDSK appears stuck for many hours, it is safer to let it finish or back up data first and consider using data recovery software before attempting further repairs.

Erin Smith is recognized as one of the most professional writers at Amagicsoft. She has continually honed her writing skills over the past 10 years and helped millions of readers solve their tech problems.

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