Possibly a broken hard disk. If that is the case the fix is fit a new one.
If I was you I would go to www.lenovo.com and download the Hardware Maintenance Manual for your ThinkPad and work through the diagnostics. It may turn out to be something simple - and cheaper to fix!
T
November 2009
Automatic Answer
While you wait for answers, we may have found some information which could help you.
howtomendit.com for free repair help, information and advice.
Try fixfault.com to fix desktop pcs.