How do I fix Disk Utility on Mac?

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So your Mac’s Disk Utility is acting a little… wobbly? Don’t worry. Fixing it is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step in a fun and simple way. By the time you’re done, you’ll be navigating Disk Utility like a tech ninja.

What is Disk Utility?

Disk Utility is a built-in app on your Mac. It helps you manage drives, check for errors, and fix problems. It’s like a handy mechanic, but for your data!

But sometimes, even mechanics need a repair of their own. If Disk Utility crashes, won’t open, or just doesn’t seem to work right, here’s how to put it back in action.

Step 1: Restart Your Mac

This sounds silly, but it works wonders.

• Click the Apple logo.
• Choose Restart.
• Wait for it to come back to life.

Now try opening Disk Utility again. It might have just needed a quick nap.

Step 2: Use Spotlight to Find It

Sometimes Disk Utility isn’t broken—it’s just hiding.

• Press Command + Space bar.
• Type Disk Utility.
• Hit Return to open it.

If it opens this way, you’re golden!

Step 3: Try Safe Mode

Safe Mode is like a “quiet time” for your Mac. It loads only the basics.

Here’s how to use it:

• Shut down your Mac.
• Turn it on and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
• Let go when you see the login screen.

Get into Safe Mode and try launching Disk Utility. If it works, the problem might be an app or extension that was causing trouble.

Step 4: Use Terminal (Advanced, but Easy!)

This one sounds spooky, but it’s not. Terminal is just a way to talk to your Mac.

• Go to Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
• Type this line and hit Return:
  open /Applications/Utilities/Disk\ Utility.app

If Disk Utility opens, high five your keyboard. If not, read on.

Step 5: Use Disk Utility Through macOS Recovery

This is a superhero move. You’ll access Disk Utility before the operating system even loads.

• Restart your Mac.
• While it’s booting up, press and hold Command + R.
• Keep holding until you see the Apple logo or spinning globe.
• When the macOS Utilities screen appears, select Disk Utility.

This version of Disk Utility can handle deeper cleanups. You can run First Aid here to fix disks.

Step 6: Run First Aid

“First Aid” is like a spa day for your hard drive. It checks for issues and smooths everything out.

• Open Disk Utility.
• Choose your drive on the left (usually called Macintosh HD).
• Click First Aid.
• Click Run.
• Let it sparkle and shine 🧼.

Step 7: Update macOS

Old software can cause weird bugs—even with Disk Utility.

• Go to System Settings or System Preferences.
• Click General > Software Update.
• Install any available updates.

Updates can include bug fixes that make Disk Utility purr like a kitten.

Bonus Tip: Disk Utility Alternatives

If nothing works, you can try third-party tools like:

• CleanMyMac X
• Drive Genius
• DaisyDisk

These tools offer more options and sometimes better results.

When to Ask for Help

If Disk Utility still isn’t working, don’t panic. It may be time to call the pros.

• Visit an Apple Store.
• Use Apple Support online.
• Chat with a Genius (not the emoji kind 🧠).

Final Thoughts

Fixing Disk Utility isn’t scary. Start with the easy stuff. Work your way up. Your Mac is a powerful beast, but even beasts need some care. And now, you know how to do it!

Good job, tech hero! 🦸‍♂️