Startup disk error. Is there any way to save my data?

Question

Level 1

4 points

Startup disk error. Is there any way to save my data?

When I booted up my 2015 Macbook Pro on monday, I was met with the startup disk error (folder with a question mark). I tried every fix I could find online, but it wouldn’t let me re-download the operating system, wouldn’t let me restore from a passport backup (not sure what is going on there, but when plugged in, the passport won’t even show up anymore? Initially it was also only listing some of my backups from years ago, instead of my most recent ones…). And first aid on the disk cannot be completed.

My last hail-mary attempt was trying to follow this video to backup my info before formatting the disk to see if my laptop was salvageable (or to transfer if I needed to buy a new one), but when I tried to create a new image to the external drive, I was unable to access any personal data (pics below).

Does anyone know a way I can fix any of this? My laptop is a decade old now, so I’m not really surprised it’s failing, but I have a lot of art and writing projects hanging in the balance here, so if I can save literally anything, I would be eternally grateful! Thank you so much :)

ps: sorry the photos are upside down?? They’re right side up on my phone, and I have no idea how to fix them on here…

[Edited by Moderator]

Earlier Mac models

Posted on Sep 11, 2025 09:49 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Sep 11, 2025 11:58 AM in response to Wxtchszn

Wxtchszn wrote:

I do! I think my most recent backup was in June or July, but I was concerned because when I tried to restore from a backup in recovery mode, it was only listing older backups (July 2023 being the most recent), but it’s totally possible I’m just misunderstanding and those backups are different and still exist on the passport, but are inaccessible to me right now.

I’ll have to look into those! Thank you for the response :). I’m not sure if it’s the SSD, I can see the SSD in Utilities when I’m in recovery mode, but I can’t access anything that might be saved there (if that’s how it works, haha).

your "Solid State Drive" that uses a PCI Express (PCIe) interface with the NVMe protocol...(short hand version: SSD)

the drive has most likely failed/ connector fault, etc ( you can try re-seating it.)

possible I guess the logic board itself has developed a fault...

Apple may refuse to even look at it, or they may test it for you. Call them and find out if you need help sorting through a hardware issue

Local USA—

Store List - Apple Store - Apple

Around the World—

Choose your country or region - Apple

In or out of warranty you can get a free over the counter 'Apple Service Diagnostics' test /assessment

Make an appointment for a "hardware issue"

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Outside the USA

Contact Apple Support - Apple Support

see vintage and obsolete:

ref: Obtaining service for your Apple product after an expired warranty - Apple Support

Reply

Answer 2

Sep 11, 2025 10:18 AM in response to Wxtchszn

ref: If your Mac starts up to a question mark

If your Mac starts up to a question mark - Apple Support

do you have current backups...(?) This certainly would ease any concerns.

restore items backed up with Time Machine

Restore items backed up with Time Machine on Mac - Apple Support

if it is a logicboard issue

The 2105 has a removable SSD— a proprietary connection(?) OWC/Macsales may have a reader— but may not be worth the expense if you have backups

https://eshop.macsales.com/shop/ssd/owc/macbook-pro-retina-display/2013-2014-2015?srsltid=AfmBOop1XKBPX7XzTwI_u2J9ptB_YsCfF8B_KRhksu3h27XQGtWRlQnk

https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/MAU3ENP1AW/

https://www.amazon.com/OWC-Upgrade-Enclosure-Compatible-MacBook/dp/B08WRJFCYT

if the SSD has failed that is quite different

Reply

Answer 3

Wxtchszn Author

Level 1

4 points

Sep 11, 2025 10:59 AM in response to leroydouglas

I do! I think my most recent backup was in June or July, but I was concerned because when I tried to restore from a backup in recovery mode, it was only listing older backups (July 2023 being the most recent), but it’s totally possible I’m just misunderstanding and those backups are different and still exist on the passport, but are inaccessible to me right now.

I’ll have to look into those! Thank you for the response :). I’m not sure if it’s the SSD, I can see the SSD in Utilities when I’m in recovery mode, but I can’t access anything that might be saved there (if that’s how it works, haha).

Reply