Windows Stuck in Automatic Repair loop? Here how to fix !!!

Windows’ Automatic Repair feature is designed to troubleshoot and fix boot-related problems automatically. However, sometimes Windows can get stuck in an Automatic Repair loop, repeatedly attempting to fix issues but failing to do so. When this happens, you may see messages like “Preparing Automatic Repair” or “Diagnosing your PC” on startup, preventing access to Windows. Well, this issue can occur due to various reasons, including corrupted system files, problems with the Windows Boot Manager, incompatible hardware, or faulty updates, often triggered by improper shutdowns or power failures. Here is several methods to resolve the Windows Automatic Repair loop and restore normal boot functionality.

How to fix Automatic repair loop in Windows

Windows PC gets stuck in “Automatic Repair,” it means the operating system has detected a problem during startup and is trying to fix it automatically, but is failing to do so and looping. This can be caused by various issues like corrupt system files, failed Windows updates, hardware problems, or incorrect system configurations.

• Corrupt System Files – Missing or damaged files can prevent Windows from booting properly.
• Failed Windows Update – An incomplete update may interfere with the startup process.
• Corrupt Boot Configuration Data (BCD) – Issues with the boot loader can cause endless repair attempts.
• Faulty Drivers – Incompatible or outdated drivers can trigger startup issues.
• Hard Drive or SSD Issues – Bad sectors or failing storage devices can prevent Windows from loading.
• Power Interruptions During Boot – Sudden shutdowns can corrupt system files.

Perform a Hard Reboot

A hard reboot can sometimes resolve temporary boot issues by clearing any stuck processes, refreshing system components, and allow Windows to attempt a clean boot sequence.

• Press and hold the power button until your PC shuts down.
• Disconnect all external devices (USB drives, printers, additional monitors) to rule out conflicts.
• Wait a few minutes to allow residual power to discharge.
• Turn the PC back on and check if Windows boots normally.

Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and services, allowing you to troubleshoot problems without interference from third-party applications or corrupted settings.

• Turn off your PC and power it back on.
• When the Windows logo appears, hold the power button until the PC shuts down.
• Repeat this process 2-3 times until you enter Advanced Startup Options.
• Select Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
• Press 4 or F4 to boot into Safe Mode.
• If Safe Mode loads successfully, you can uninstall problematic updates, drivers, or software that may have caused the issue.

Use System Restore

System Restore can roll back your system to a previous working state, undoing recent changes that may have triggered the repair loop.

• Boot into Advanced Startup Options (You can follow the steps here).
• Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
• Choose a restore point before the problem starts.
• Follow on-screen instructions to complete the restore.

Run Startup Repair

Windows’ built-in Startup Repair can automatically diagnose and fix common boot issues, making it useful if Windows is failing to start due to missing or corrupted system files.

• Boot into Advanced Startup Options.
• Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
• Choose your Windows account and enter your password.
• Let Windows analyze the problem and attempt repairs.
• Restart your PC and check if it boots properly.

Rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

If the boot configuration is corrupt, rebuilding it can resolve startup failures and prevent the repair loop.

Boot into Advanced Startup Options > Troubleshoot > Advanced Options> Command Prompt. Now run the following commands one by one.

bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

After executing these commands type exit to close the command prompt and restart Windows check this time windows started normally.

Disable Automatic Repair

Disabling Automatic Repair can stop the loop and allow manual troubleshooting by preventing Windows from repeatedly entering repair mode.

• Open Command Prompt from Advanced Startup Options.
• Type command, bcdedit /set {current} recoveryenabled No and press enter key
• Close the command prompt, Restart your PC and check if Windows boots normally.

Check and Repair Disk Errors

If your hard drive or SSD has errors, running a disk check can help detect and fix bad sectors that may be preventing Windows from booting properly.

• Open Command Prompt from Advanced Startup Options.
• Type command chkdsk /r /f C: and press enterkey
• Allow the scan to complete. If any errors are found, Windows will attempt to repair them.
• Restart your PC and check if Windows boots correctly.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Scan

Again if system files are corrupted or missing, running SFC and DISM scans can repair them, and restore Windows functionality.

• Open Command Prompt from Advanced Startup Options.
• First run sfc /scannow command then DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Let the scanning process complete 100% and restart your computer to check if the automatic repair loop is resolved.

If none of the previous methods work, resetting or reinstalling Windows can provide a fresh start and eliminate any corrupted system files.