MacOS can sometimes unrecognize a new SSD.
It can also happen when you connect your old hard disks.
As a result, you will see the file manager unable to reach the files on that drive.
By the end of this article, you will have determined whether you need a new SSD.
So, lets start.
Ensure that SATA and power cables are slotted in securely.
Next, find out if the drive is detected in the Terminal.
After the drive shows up, run First Aid and then format it using the Disk Utility app.
Thats the order we will maintain to troubleshoot the SSD that is acting weird.
So, have a screwdriver nearby.
You are going to need it for the first step.
These are the steps to fix SSD that does not show up on your Mac:
1.
Check the SSDs Connection
Did you connect the SSD properly?
The SATA and power cables must properly connect to the logic board.
Also, the SATA cables must be functional for the Mac to discover it.
The most recent models with M1 or newer processors do not even have the option to upgrade the SSD.
In that case, connect anexternal SSDwith aType Cport.
Also, check beforehand that this cable is operational.
In that case, proceed to the next steps.
If you do not see any drive pop-up, things are not looking bright for now.
Nevertheless, go through the next steps to see if youre in luck.
Is your internal drive popping up every now and then, even if it is connected securely?
Read on to know how wefixed our internal disk drive from disconnectingon our PC.
If you do not set this, even the working drives will not be visible on your Mac.
Now, wrap up the Preference window.
Go to the Finder app and look for the hard drive in the left pane.
If it is not visible yet, you will need to format it first.
you could find it built-in Disk Utility on your Macs parameters.
When the check is completed, start your Mac and open Finder.
You should see the SSD now.
Did you know Mac allows booting from an external drive?
That way, you’re free to speed up an old Mac using an external SSD.
Read this detailed guide toboot your Mac from an SSD.
Repair the SSD from Terminal
The Terminal also has built-in tools for checking errors with disk drives.
But first, we will have to determine which drive letter is assigned for the SSD.
Here are the steps to repair the SSD drive from the Terminal:
Wait for both processes to complete.
The total file system will be verified and repaired if any error is found.
Once the process completes, terminate the Terminal and reboot your Mac.
Format the Drive in Disk Utility
The last step involves erasing the drive.
For a new drive, formatting is not a problem, though.
There are certain file formats that you’ve got the option to select when formatting the drive.
If you plan to use the drive on the Mac only, selectAPFS.
For older Macs, selectingMac OS Journaledwill do just fine.
However, chooseFATorexFATif you intend to transfer files between Mac and Windows computers.
This way, the SSD will be recognized by both OS.
Once the formatting is done, you could finally reach the drive from the Finder app.
By now, your Mac should recognize the SSD or the external drive connected to it.
If the drive still does not appear, try formatting it on a Windows computer.
To do that, openDisk Management>Right-press drive>Format.
In that case, return the drive for a replacement if it is covered under warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my SSD not being detected on Mac?
If there are loose connections between your SSD and Mac, it will fail to recognize it.
Additionally, the SSD must be formatted in the correct format for the macOS to detect it.
How do I make my SSD readable on Mac?
To make the SSD readable, format it using the Disk Utility app.
And do not forget to opt for File Format asAPFSorMac OS Journaled.
Why isnt my Mac detecting my hard drive?
If the Finder isnt configured to show the disk drives, you will not see any hard drives.
To change this, openFinder>Preferences>Sidebar> Tick onHDD.
What format should I use for Mac SSD?
In addition, Mac also supportsNTFS,exFATandMac OS Journaledas file types.
Wrapping Up
I hope you troubleshot the SSD out of its troubled waters easily.
Considering how user-friendly macOS is, this should not be that difficult for you.
With that said, thats all for today.
