First try the HDD is another machine to see if you can replicate the fault. If so then you can return it for a refund due it not being fit for purpose.
Seeing as support for vista is about to be dropped (
Microsoft slams nails in Windows Vista, XP SP2, 2000 ? The Register) and that these sorts of problems litter every windows user's experince, then you are left with a choice: keep banging your head against the same wall, or grow and learn of another way...
Just my input.