What is CACHE-FLSH-FAIL?
Failed to write data from disk cache ranks as a high-severity storage drive (SSD/HDD) issue in our database. The data in the disk cache was not saved before the power failure. It's most often caused by end of life (age), defective cable and high temperatures in the M.2 slot. Work through the steps below in order.
Common Causes
- End of life (age)
- Defective cable
- Power outages
- High temperatures in the M.2 slot
Step-by-Step Fix Guide
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1
Back up all data immediately
Most reports of CACHE-FLSH-FAIL clear up after Back up all data immediately, so it's worth trying before anything more involved.
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2
Try replacing the SATA data cable
If it comes back, the next steps in the sequence are there specifically for atypical storage instability cases.
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3
Run manufacturer diagnostics
Still seeing CACHE-FLSH-FAIL after that? "Run manufacturer diagnostics" is the next thing to check.
Commands & Diagnostics
chkdsk C: /f /r
wmic diskdrive get status
Frequently Asked Questions
The leading cause of CACHE-FLSH-FAIL is end of life (age), though defective cable, power outages and high temperatures in the M.2 slot also show up in our reports.
Try "Back up all data immediately" first — it resolves most CACHE-FLSH-FAIL cases on its own. Only work through the rest of the guide above if it comes back.
CACHE-FLSH-FAIL is a high-severity error. It won't damage your PC instantly, but repeated occurrences usually point to a deeper problem worth addressing soon.
Usually. CACHE-FLSH-FAIL is fixable with the steps above; a full Windows reinstall is rarely necessary unless everything else has failed.
Open CrystalDiskInfo (free tool) to check your drive's S.M.A.R.T. status. Any yellow or red indicators — especially reallocated sectors or pending sectors — confirm the drive is degrading and should be backed up and replaced immediately.
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