How to Run Chromebook Diagnostics for Hardware Issues

Why run Chromebook diagnostics

ChromeOS includes a built-in Diagnostics app that lets you check the health of your Chromebook's core hardware: battery, CPU, memory, and storage. Running these tests can help you identify whether a slowdown, short battery life, or random crashes are caused by hardware or software.

The operating system already performs a self-check every time it starts up, as described in Google's auto update documentation. If it detects tampering or corruption, it will repair itself. But for deeper component-level health, the Diagnostics app gives you explicit results. You can also use it before a major upgrade or when considering a refurbished device.

How to open the Diagnostics app

Open the Diagnostics app by typing "Diagnostics" in the launcher, which appears when you press the Everything key or the Search key. You can also go to Settings, then About ChromeOS, and find Diagnostics in the menu. The app shows a list of components you can test.

You do not need any special permissions or technical skills. The app guides you through each test with clear on-screen instructions. It is available on all current ChromeOS devices, including those with Chromebook Plus hardware.

• Battery
• CPU
• Memory
• Storage

Battery test

The battery test measures the health and performance of your battery. It checks the current charge level, voltage, and discharge rate. It also runs a stress test to see if the battery can hold up under load. If the battery fails, you might see a message that it is in poor condition or needs service.

A failing battery can cause short battery life, unexpected shutdowns, and swelling. If your Chromebook is older, the battery may have degraded naturally. Running this test every few months can help you track its condition. For more on maintaining battery health, see our guide on battery health.

CPU test

The CPU test runs the processor at high load for a specified duration. It checks for errors, overheating, and stability. A failing CPU can cause random shutdowns or freezes. If the test fails, it is often a sign of a hardware defect.

You can use the CPU test to verify that your processor is performing within its expected range. If you have recently noticed sluggish performance or overheating, this test can help you determine whether the processor is the culprit. For more on how processors affect performance, read our processor guide.

Memory test

The memory test checks your RAM for errors. It writes and reads patterns to every memory address. Faulty RAM can lead to crashes, corrupted files, and system instability. If the test fails, you may need to replace the RAM module, though on many Chromebooks RAM is soldered to the motherboard.

If your Chromebook has soldered RAM, a memory failure cannot be fixed by a simple upgrade. In that case, you would need to replace the motherboard or the entire device. Running the memory test is especially helpful before a major software update or if you experience frequent freezes.

Storage test

The storage test checks the health of your internal SSD or eMMC. It scans for bad sectors and performs read/write speed tests. If storage is failing, you might experience slow boot times, app crashes, or data corruption. If the test fails, back up your files immediately and consider a new Chromebook.

Storage health is critical for data safety. You can also run this test if you are planning to upgrade your storage or if you have recently moved files to a different device. For more on SSD vs eMMC differences, see our storage types guide.

What to do with your results

If all tests pass, your hardware is likely in good shape, and any issues you are facing may be software-related. Restart your Chromebook or check for updates. You can also reset the device if problems persist.

If a test fails, you have a few options. First, contact the manufacturer for repair if the device is under warranty. For out-of-warranty devices, you might consider replacing the component if it is serviceable, or buying a new Chromebook. Our warranty guide explains what to expect. If you back up your data regularly, a hardware failure will be less stressful.

When should you run diagnostics?

Run diagnostics if you notice any of these symptoms: your Chromebook drains battery quickly, shuts down randomly, freezes, or has slow storage access. It is also a good idea to run diagnostics before buying a used Chromebook, though you will need the owner's permission. Running tests regularly can help you track the health of your hardware over time.

Running diagnostics periodically can help you identify trends. For example, a gradual decrease in battery health may indicate it's time to replace the battery or the device. Catching these issues early can save you from unexpected failures. If you are considering a new Chromebook, running diagnostics on your current device can help you decide whether an upgrade is worth it. You can then compare your results with the specs of a new machine, such as 8GB RAM Chromebooks or 128GB storage Chromebooks.

What to pick for your use

Questions

What is the Diagnostics app on ChromeOS?

It is a built-in tool that runs tests on your Chromebook's battery, CPU, memory, and storage. It helps you identify hardware issues without external software.

Can I run diagnostics on any Chromebook?

Yes, the Diagnostics app is available on all ChromeOS devices, regardless of model or age. Some tests may be more detailed on newer hardware, but the core functionality is universal.

Do I need to be tech-savvy to run diagnostics?

No. The app is designed to be simple. You select a component and press a button to start the test. Results are shown as pass or fail, with a description of any issues found.

Will running diagnostics void my warranty?

No. Running diagnostics is a standard system feature. It does not modify any hardware or software settings and will not affect your warranty.

What should I do if a test fails?

If a test fails, back up your important files if possible. Then contact the manufacturer for repair if under warranty. If out of warranty, consider replacing the component (if serviceable) or the entire Chromebook.