Facing SD card errors on your GoPro camera can be frustrating. However, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to try and resolve the issue before needing to replace the SD card.
What causes SD errors on GoPro?
There are a few common causes of SD card errors on GoPro cameras:
- Corrupted SD card – If the SD card has become corrupted due to damage, improper removal, formatting issues, etc. it can cause read/write errors.
- Incompatible SD card – Using an SD card that is not fully compatible or does not meet the speed requirements for your specific GoPro model can result in errors.
- Dirty SD card contacts – Debris buildup on the contacts of the SD card or in the camera’s card slot can interrupt the connection.
- Full or nearly full SD card – When the SD card reaches maximum or near-maximum capacity, it can sometimes trigger card errors.
- Outdated camera firmware – If your GoPro is not running the latest firmware, incompatibilities can sometimes lead to SD card issues.
- Camera malfunction – In rare cases, an issue with the camera itself rather than the SD card can cause card read/write errors.
Quick Fixes to Attempt
Before going any further with troubleshooting, there are a few quick and easy fixes you can try:
- Power cycle the camera – Turn the camera off, remove the battery for 30 seconds, then reinsert and turn back on.
- Reseat the SD card – Remove and reinsert the SD card to ensure it makes proper contact.
- Inspect contacts – Check for debris or damage on the contacts of the SD card and in the camera slot.
- Try a different SD card – Swap in a known good SD card to see if the issue persists.
- Format the SD card – Go into your GoPro’s settings menu and select “Format SD Card”.
- Update camera firmware – Download and install the latest firmware for your GoPro model.
Often these simple steps are enough to resolve an SD card error on your GoPro. If the issue continues however, move on to the advanced troubleshooting steps below.
Advanced Troubleshooting
For persistent SD card errors that aren’t resolved by the quick fixes above, some more in-depth troubleshooting is required:
Test the SD Card in Another Device
Take the SD card out of your GoPro and insert it into another device like a computer, tablet, or smartphone. If it works fine in the other device, the issue is with your camera. If the card is not recognized or fails to read/write in the other device, the SD card itself is likely faulty.
Scan for Errors with SD Card Utility
On a computer, run an SD card scanner/repair utility on the card to diagnose and fix any errors. Popular free options include:
- H2 Disk Scanner for Windows
- F3X for Mac
- SD Card Formatter for Windows/Mac
These tools will scan the card for bad sectors, file system issues, and other problems – attempting repairs if possible. This can often get a failing SD card working again.
Check Compatibility Specifications
Consult the specs and manual for your specific GoPro model and ensure your SD card meets all compatibility requirements including:
- Supported capacity range
- Approved SD card brands
- Minimum write speed rating (e.g. Class 10 or U3 rating)
Using a non-approved card or one that is too slow for the high data rate of 4K/60fps video recording can cause issues.
Update GoPro Firmware
GoPro will periodically release firmware updates that fix bugs – including potential SD card errors. Connect your camera to the GoPro mobile app or Quik desktop app to check for and install the latest firmware.
Clean SD Card and Camera Contacts
Use a cotton swab moistened with rubbing alcohol to gently clean the gold contacts on your SD card. Be sure the contacts are dry before re-inserting the card. Also carefully clean the spring-loaded pins inside the GoPro’s battery/card compartment.
Contact GoPro Support
If all troubleshooting steps have failed to resolve your GoPro’s SD issues, reach out to GoPro Support online or by phone. They can help diagnose whether the problem is being caused by a faulty SD card or an issue with the camera itself that requires service.
Best Practices to Avoid SD Errors
Following these tips will help prevent SD card errors in the future:
- Use name brand SD cards that meet your GoPro’s specs
- Format cards in the camera before first use
- Avoid removing the card when the camera is on
- Don’t expose cards to moisture or extreme heat
- Replace cards at least every 1-2 years
- Store cards properly in cases when not in use
- Be gentle and avoid dropping or bending cards
- Regularly update your GoPro firmware
- Keep the camera and card contacts debris-free
- Don’t overfill SD cards near maximum capacity
When to Replace an SD Card
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above without success, the SD card is likely irreparably damaged and needs replacement. Here are some signs it’s time to swap in a new card:
- Card is not recognized or read by GoPro or any other device
- Visible scratches or damage to SD card body or contacts
- Card repair utilities cannot fix errors or bad sectors
- Camera repeatedly fails to write files to the card
- Corrupted files/footage when attempting to playback contents
- Persisting error messages and performance issues
Purchasing a new, compatible SD card for your GoPro model is the definitive solution for ongoing card-related problems.
Conclusion
SD card errors in GoPro cameras are often repairable through troubleshooting steps like reseating the card, cleaning contacts, formatting, and scanning for errors. But an irreparably damaged card will need replacement to permanently resolve the issues. By understanding the causes of GoPro SD errors and following best practices, you can minimize problems and get uninterrupted performance from your action camera.