SanDisk promises firmware fix for failing Extreme and Extreme Pro SSDs

After a flurry of customer complaints about SanDisk Extreme and Extreme Pro portable SSDs failing, Western Digital has promised to release a firmware update to fix the problem. However, the official response only addressed 4TB drives, so it’s not certain whether the 2TB models, which are also said to be affected, will receive the firmware update. reports TechSpot magazine.

In response to a query of the Ars Technica server regarding the mounting complaints about SanDisk SSDs Western Digital stated that a firmware fix to address this issue will be released “soon”. The backlash came after users flooded social media platforms, online discussion forums and SanDisk’s official forums to complain about the sudden failure of their new Extreme V2 and Extreme Pro V2 Portable drives.

SanDisk SSD failure

Complaints indicate that the drives suddenly and without warning erase all stored data and in some cases become completely unreadable. Most of the complaints are for the 4TB models, but some are reporting similar issues with the 2TB units as well. One of the members of the Ars Technica website confirmed the read and write errors on two of his 2TB drives – he too had all data deleted from both affected drives, including the file system.

The problem is primarily caused by disconnecting the drive, which then fails to reconnect, even though it shows up in Disk Utility. Sometimes it is possible to fix the problem using DiskDrill for file system recovery, but in many cases this solution does not work. The problem occurs regardless of the file system type.

“The minimal response from the manufacturer so far is particularly disappointing given the popularity of SanDisk Extreme portable SSDs. Many tech media (including Ars Technica in 2020) recommended the drive. Its durable construction appeals especially to users who don’t want physical problems to lead to data loss. Turns out it’s not just falls and splashing water they have to worry about.’ states Ars Technica.

A fix is ​​coming

Some of the complaints have been going back at least four months, with one Reddit user being told by the Japanese distributor that the problem only affects drives manufactured after November 2022. While this report could not be verified, other users have made similar claims on Reddit and Twitter. Some of them have used multiple SanDisk Extreme and Extreme Pro drives over the years, but only the recently purchased ones failed.

When asked about the growing number of complaints, a SanDisk spokesperson said the company is aware of the issues with the Extreme and Extreme Pro 4TB portable SSDs and has already identified the source of the problem. He also said that he will soon release a firmware update that will fix the problem for good. He advised affected users to contact customer support for assistance.

However, the speaker did not specify the expected release date of the patch, he didn’t even specify whether it would also apply to 2TB models. The response did not appease affected users, who blame Western Digital for the delays, despite the fact that the manufacturer was alerted to the problem several months ago. While the planned update may fix broken drives, it will be interesting to see if this experience deters customers from purchasing SanDisk products in the future.