Storage · high

How to fixTBW-LIM-RCH

Critical Cell Wear (SSD End of Life)

What this error means

Critical Cell Wear (SSD End of Life) (TBW-LIM-RCH) is a high-severity fault affecting the storage drive (SSD/HDD). The SSD has reached the end of its write life (TBW) and has entered read-only mode. Common triggers are defective cable, power outages and high temperatures in the M.2 slot. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Back up all data immediately

Back up all data immediately.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Try replacing the SATA data cable

Try replacing the SATA data cable.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Run manufacturer diagnostics

Run manufacturer diagnostics.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • End of life (age)
  • Defective cable
  • Power outages
  • High temperatures in the M.2 slot