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The Operation Could Not be Completed Volume Dirty Error External Drive Error Message


Description


Writing data to an external USB drive results in the following error message Error 0x80071AC3: The operation could not be completed because the volume is dirty. Please run chkdsk and try again.

Image


An abrupt loss of power, improper shutdown, or unsafe eject of the drive from a USB port can cause the volume to become dirty. For more information, please refer to Answer ID 16458: Consequences of an Unsafe USB Flash and External Drive Removal.



Resolution


Use Windows Disk Tools or WD Drive Utilities to check the drive for errors.

Windows Disk Tools

View the Use of Third-Party Software or Websites disclaimer.
Western Digital Support cannot help with third-party software or hardware.

WD Drive Utilities

WD Drive Utilities can be used to check the drive for damage.
For instructions, please refer to Answer ID 12452: Steps to Check Drives for Errors or Failures on Windows and macOS.

Format the Drive

Format the drive again if required. For instructions, please refer to Answer ID 8200: Steps to Format a Drive for Use with Windows or macOS.

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Details
Answer ID 18128
Published 08/20/2018 02:34 AM
Updated 05/05/2023 10:25 AM

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