XPS 8960, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C Port erratic connection

I have an XPS 8960 Desktop and a Crucial X10 Pro external HDD which is sold as, “USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface, offering speeds up to 2,200MB/s reads and 2,000MB/s writes.” The drive was bought new at the same time as the PC.

When the drive is connected to the USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C port on the back of the PC, it will intermittently disconnect then reconnect over and over again, then settle down again for a while until next time. When connected to the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port with PowerShare on the front of the PC, it works fine with no issues. Changing the connecting USB lead with another 20GB capable USB lead makes no difference on either port.

The rear USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C port works fine with my phone, displaying no connection issues at all. I don't know if this confirms that the port is fine or not.

This situation has existed from the time when both PC and external HDD were new, so I have always used the front port. However, I would now like to use the appropriate rear port and put the external HDD out of the way, but can't do that unless this connection issue can be resolved.

Crucial support suggested that my USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C port is the problem and that my USB drivers should be either updated or reinstalled. I have not done this, as running the Dell Support Assist does not show that it is required.

I am inclined to think this is more likely to be an issue with the external hard drive than the USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C port, but do not have another drive that would enable me to confirm that.

Any thoughts or advice on how to resolve this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.