Hard Drive Temp Measurement Broken

Im wondering is it possible for a hard drive's internal temp measurement to go wonky?

I ask because all of a sudden a hard drive of mine has shot up to 56 degrees celcius. Thing is, I shut the pc down for 2 hours, booted up again and then it showed 52 degrees straight away (bearing in mind it was cold to the touch before booting).

is my hard drive dying or is it just the temp sensor?

ta

What make is the HDD? I'd have a look on the manufacturer's website to see if they have any software to check the status of the HDD. Maxtor definitely do some, so i guess the other manufacturer's probably have similar things.

Simple check just put your hand on the drive while it's on. If it really is 56degrees it will be very hot to the touch.