2011 MBP Flashing Folder on startup

I have a 2011 MacBook Pro 13'' that has experienced the flashing question mark on startup.
I've read a few other threads that had solutions/steps needed, but I have tried every step.  Disk repair, internet recovery, startup manager, even the password reset, but still it could not locate my hard drive. I don't currently have my OS Install disc that came with the laptop in my immediate possession. I've kept the laptop's OS updated every time.
My laptop has not had any problems over the last two years. I'm not really tech savvy but I do take good care of it. Are there any last ditch steps I can take to avoid taking it in for repair or having to take it apart myself (I'd rather not).
Will the only way I know if it's a failed hard drive if the install disc doesn't work?

I have tried every step.  Disk repair, internet recovery, startup
manager, even the password reset, but still it could not locate my hard
drive.
Then either it, the cable or your Mac is the problem.
To determine what's what, it will have to be removed from the machine and a SATA to USB adapter to another Mac or machine to see and for data recovery if needed.
My computer is not working, is my personal data lost?
Are there any last ditch steps I can take to avoid taking it in for repair or having to take it apart myself (I'd rather not).
Not really, it's surgery time.
Apple can tell with their machine, so can most PC shops for a failed hard drive or cable, provided the machine isn't under warranty or AppleCare, then take it Apple instead.
However your data recovery options are best with local services.
Will the only way I know if it's a failed hard drive if the install disc doesn't work?
Install disk will likely boot up, but again Disk Utility will fail to see a drive to install onto/format.
It might be while booting the install disk it won't proceed as it doesn't detect anything to install onto or service.

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    Message was edited by: Rodney Culling

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    DestroyGalaxies wrote:
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  • Flashing folder icon on startup. Please help

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