Windows update won't run/scan.it's on in services but computer says...

....otherwise.

I just got my laptop from service (they replaced a new hard drive and installed windows 7). It is a Sony Vaio ....i own it now but it's a slightly used rent-to-own type of deal so no windows dvd or system restore or anything.

They supposedly restored my computer to factory setting but I can't update my computer.

The bar to the left is red and i see a red shield with a white x and it says most recent checks for updates: never

updates were installed: never

i go to installed programs and nothing has been installed since early 2010.

It's like whenever i try to click check for updates button it's like something is blocking it from connecting and scanning is the best way I can explain it. I desperately need help to update all my software and security patches etc
I found something online where it says to type services.msc and stop it and go to c/windows/softwaredistribution and delete the files and then start the service so then ....
windows updates still won't scan (windows 7)....says service is not running but it is.

I thought I should mention that after encountering this problem of Windows Update refusing to work saying that it's service hasn't been started, I managed to FINALLY fix MY issue by doing what the original poster actually alluded to:

"I found something online where it says to type services.msc and stop it and go to c/windows/softwaredistribution and delete the files and then start the service so then ...." (the service referred to is Windows Update service)

All the other many supposed solutions I found online (like those having to do with Intel Rapid Storage Technology Drivers) did not help. My problem occurred after Windows 7 became corrupted (for the first time in years) and I had to do a partition restore from Acronis True Image Home 2011. The restore worked other than Windows Update - which is a pretty big failing. Nevertheless, my trust in Windows 7 has been severely damaged.