Read the SMART error log
Build a paste-ready command, then review its compatibility and effects before running it.
smartctl -l error <device>Complete required fields to copy the generated command.
read-onlyno known side effects Compatibility
LinuxVerified for Linux using posix, bash, zsh syntax.
Operational knowledgereview due 2027-01-20
Requirementssmartctlsmartctl must be installed and available on PATH.
Version supportsmartctl Current supported releasesVerified for linux using posix, bash, zsh syntax; consult compatibility notes for platform-specific differences.
Expected signalsSMART Error Log Version: 1Representative successful output; values vary with the selected target and system state.
Known errorssmartctl: command not foundsmartctl is missing or is not available on PATH.
Verifysmartctl -l error {{device}}The output matches the expected target and exits without an error.Rollback noteNot required: this command is read-only and does not change system state.
Command breakdown
01smartctlCommandRuns the smartctl stage of this one-liner.
02-lOptionConfigures smartctl with the -l option.
03errorArgumentPasses error to smartctl.
04<device>ParameterA value supplied in the Fill parameters section.
Example input
smartctl -l error /dev/sda
Example output
SMART Error Log Version: 1
No Errors Logged
Illustrative output — exact values vary by system and data.
Official sources