[Solved] How to Recover Files Deleted by CHKDSK

Introduction to CHKDSK and Data Loss

Ever run CHKDSK on your hard drive and suddenly realize some files are missing? You’re not alone. CHKDSK (short for "Check Disk") is a built-in Windows utility designed to repair disk errors and bad sectors. While it’s incredibly helpful, it can sometimes result in files being deleted or moved. This article breaks down why this happens and how you can recover files deleted by CHKDSK.

Why CHKDSK Deletes Files?

CHKDSK’s main job is to fix inconsistencies in your file system. When it finds corrupted or orphaned files, it often relocates them into hidden folders or deletes fragments it cannot repair.

Understanding CHKDSK Operations

CHKDSK scans your drive for bad sectors and file system errors. If it detects corrupted data, it attempts to repair it, which can mean isolating or deleting files that can’t be fixed.

Common Scenarios Leading to File Deletion

• Power loss during file transfer
• Sudden system crash
• Bad sectors on the hard drive
• Unfinished or corrupted downloads

Signs Your Files Were Deleted by CHKDSK

If CHKDSK deleted or moved your files, you’ll usually notice a few telltale signs.

Missing Folders and Directories

You might open your drive only to see folders gone or empty. This often means CHKDSK relocated files into a "Found" folder.

Fragmented or Corrupted Files After Scan

Sometimes files aren’t fully deleted but become unreadable or renamed as .CHK files.

Can You Recover Files Deleted by CHKDSK?

The good news? Yes, in many cases, recovery is possible.

How CHKDSK Handles Lost Clusters

CHKDSK moves data fragments into the Found.000 folder, which you can manually inspect.

What Happens to the Deleted Files

Files that can’t be repaired or relocated are essentially "lost" but often still exist physically on the drive until overwritten.

Step-by-Step Methods to Recover Files Deleted by CHKDSK

Let’s walk through the most effective ways to get your files back.

Method 1: Check Found.000 Folder (Recovered Fragments)

Windows typically creates a hidden folder called Found.000 where it stores recovered fragments.

How to Access the Found.000 Folder

1. Open File Explorer.

2. Go to the drive you scanned with CHKDSK.

3. Enable "Show Hidden Files" under View settings.

4. Look for a folder named "Found.000" or similar.

Converting .CHK Files Back to Original Format

• Files in Found.000 often have the .CHK extension.
• Use third-party tools like UnCHK or CHK-Mate to convert them back to usable formats.

Method 2: Use File Recovery Software

If the Found.000 folder doesn’t help, MyRecover is your next best bet. It’s a dedicated Windows data recovery tool designed to retrieve files lost due to CHKDSK, accidental deletion, formatting, or corruption.

Why MyRecover Is Recommended

• Specially optimized for recovering data after CHKDSK repairs.
• Simple, beginner-friendly interface.
• High recovery rate for various file types.
• Supports HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, and SD cards.

Steps to Use MyRecover Effectively

1. Download and install MyRecover on a drive other than the one you’re recovering from.

2. Launch the software and select the affected drive.

3. Click "Scan" to perform a quick scan.

4. Preview the recoverable files listed.

5. Select your desired files and hit "Recover" to save them to a safe location.

Method 3: Use Windows File Recovery Tool

If you’re running Windows 10 or later, Microsoft offers a free command-line utility called Windows File Recovery. This tool can help retrieve files lost after running CHKDSK, even from corrupted or formatted drives.

Why Windows File Recovery Is Useful

• It’s a free Microsoft tool.
• Works on NTFS, FAT, exFAT, and ReFS file systems.
• Offers two recovery modes (Regular and Extensive) for different scenarios.

How to Use Windows File Recovery Tool

1. Download Windows File Recovery from the Microsoft Store.

2. Open it as Administrator.

3. Use the syntax:

winfr source-drive: destination-drive: /mode /switches

Example:

winfr C: E: /extensive /n *.jpg

This recovers all JPG files from C: to E: in Extensive mode.

4. Review the recovered files in your chosen destination folder.

Method 4: Restore From Backup (File History & Backup and Restore)

If you’ve been diligent about backing up your data, restoring lost files can be quick and painless. Windows offers built-in backup solutions, including File History and Backup and Restore.

1. Using File History

File History is a Windows feature that automatically backs up your files to another drive or network location. Here’s how to restore files using File History:

1. In Windows Search, type "Restore your files with File History".

2. Browse the backed-up folders to locate the lost files.

3. Select the files you want and click "Restore" to recover them to their original location.

2. Using Windows Backup and Restore

If you previously set up Windows Backup:

1. Open Control Panel → Backup and Restore.

2. Select "Restore my files".

3. Choose your backup and recover the needed files.

Tips to Prevent File Loss When Running CHKDSK

Prevention is better than cure, and a few simple habits can save you from future headaches.

Always Backup Before Scanning

Before running CHKDSK, create a full backup of your important files.

Use CHKDSK in Read-Only Mode First

Run CHKDSK without the "/f" or "/r" parameters initially to check for errors without making changes.

Keep Storage Devices Healthy

Regularly defragment and monitor your hard drive’s health using SMART tools or built-in diagnostics.

Conclusion

CHKDSK is a powerful tool for maintaining your drive’s health but can sometimes cause file loss. By checking the Found.000 folder, using data recovery software, using Windows File Recovery Tool, or restoring from backups, you stand a good chance of recovering your lost data. And remember — always back up your important files before running any disk repair utilities.