My HP Envy x360 has been intermittently failing to boot for nearly a year. At random times, it starts with a blue screen saying that no operating system is installed, even though I may have been using Windows normally just a few minutes earlier. The built-in diagnostics report no problems, but the recovery process wants to download and reinstall the operating system—which is not useful when the laptop will not boot. Strangely, firmly tapping the side of the laptop sometimes makes it work again, for anywhere from an hour to a month. I believe the laptop uses an SSD. What should I check before replacing the whole computer?
4 Answers
The most likely causes are an intermittent SSD connection, a failing SSD, or a bad solder connection on the motherboard. Since tapping the case changes the behavior, a loose or failing hardware connection is more suspicious than Windows itself. Back up your files immediately whenever the laptop starts normally, then have the SSD removed and reseated or inspected. If the drive is failing, replace it and restore your backup rather than repeatedly reinstalling Windows.
Check whether the BIOS recognizes the SSD when the error appears. If the drive is missing from the BIOS, Windows cannot boot from it, which points to the drive, its connector, or the motherboard. If the BIOS consistently sees the drive, then the problem could instead involve the boot files or the drive itself. Avoid changing BIOS settings at random, and back up important data before troubleshooting further.
There is also a small CMOS battery inside the laptop, separate from the main battery. A weak battery can cause BIOS settings or the system clock to reset, although it would not fully explain why tapping the case makes the laptop work again. It is worth having the battery checked, especially on an older machine, but I would prioritize inspecting the SSD and its connection.
If you are comfortable opening the Envy x360, the SSD can potentially be removed and reinstalled, but disconnect the main battery first and follow a teardown guide for the exact model. If you are not used to working inside laptops, a reputable repair shop is safer. Ask them specifically to test the SSD, inspect its mounting and connector, and check for a motherboard fault rather than simply reinstalling Windows.
It was checked once before and they said nothing looked out of place, but I will make sure the SSD connection and CMOS battery are specifically tested. I will also back up my files before opening anything.