Windows PC Is Stuck on “Repairing Disk Errors”—Here’s How to Fix It

Encountering the “Repairing disk errors. This might take over an hour to complete” message on your Windows PC. This issue usually means the system is attempting to fix problems with the storage drive, which may occur due to corrupted files or errors in the file system. It also indicates a failing hard drive or a loose connection between the drive and the motherboard. Other factors, like a virus, problems with drivers, or unexpected shutdowns, can also contribute to this issue. Here are a few effective methods to fix the issue and get your PC back to normal without losing data.

Windows Stuck on Repairing Disk Errors

Well, Windows might get stuck on “Repairing disk errors” due to several reasons, including file system corruption, hardware issues like bad sectors, or improper shutdowns.

• Hard Drive Issues: Bad sectors, physical damage, or failing HDD/SSD.
• Corrupted System Files: Damaged or missing files critical for booting.
• Improper Shutdowns: Power outages or forced shutdowns disrupting data.
• Malware or Software Conflicts: Viruses or incompatible drivers causing instability.
• External Device Interference: Connected peripherals are misidentified as boot drives.

Wait It Out (But Not Forever)

Sometimes, the disk repair process is legitimate and just needs time to complete, especially for large drives or severe errors. Wait and let it repair the disk error. This method works best if it’s the first time you’ve encountered the error.

• Leave your PC running for at least 1–2 hours, or overnight if possible.
• Avoid interrupting the process, as this could worsen the issue.
• If the screen remains stuck after 3 – 4 hours, proceed to the next solution.

Perform a Hard Reboot

Again, A hard reboot can sometimes bypass the repair loop and allow Windows to boot normally.

• Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to shut down your PC.
• Wait 10–15 seconds, then power it back on.
• If the error persists, repeat the process 2–3 times to trigger the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and perform startup repair.

Note: If your PC boots normally, back up critical data immediately to prevent potential data loss from underlying disk issues.

Disconnect External Devices

External drives or peripherals can sometimes be mistaken for the boot drive, causing repair errors.

• Power off your PC and disconnect all external devices (USB drives, printers, keyboards, etc.).
• Restart your PC and check if the error persists.
• If the PC boots normally, reconnect devices one at a time to identify the culprit.
• Update drivers for the problematic device via Device Manager or replace it if faulty.

Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with minimal drivers and services, which can help bypass the repair loop and allow further troubleshooting.

• Again, access Windows Recovery Environment
• Click on Startup Settings, then Restart.
• After the restart, press F4 or F5 to boot into Safe Mode with Networking.
• Once in Safe Mode, proceed to the next solutions (e.g., running CHKDSK or System File Checker).

Run CHKDSK to Repair Disk Errors

The CHKDSK (Check Disk) utility scans and fixes file system errors and bad sectors, which are common culprits behind the repair error.

• Boot into Safe Mode or access the Command Prompt via WinRE
• In the Command Prompt, type: chkdsk C: /f /r (Replace “C:” with the drive letter where Windows is installed if different.)
• Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete. This may take 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the drive size and damage.

Note: You may need to type Y and press Enter to schedule the scan on the next restart, if the volume is in use by another.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Again, Corrupted system files can trigger the Windows startup repair error. The System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools scan and can repair these files.

• Access Command Prompt via Safe Mode or WinRE
• Run the following command sfc /scannow to scan and repair corrupt system files.
• In addition, run the DISM restore health command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth to repair the Windows system image.
• Wait for each process to complete 100%, then restart your PC.

Use Startup Repair

Windows’ built-in Startup Repair tool can automatically fix issues preventing your PC from booting correctly.

• Create a Windows installation media USB if you don’t have one (use Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool on another PC).
• Insert the USB, restart your PC, and press the boot menu key (usually F12, F2, or Del) to boot from the USB.
• Select your language, then click Repair your computer.

• Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
• Follow the prompts and let the tool diagnose and fix boot issues.
• Remove the USB and restart your PC.

This is ideal if Safe Mode or CHKDSK doesn’t resolve the issue, as it targets deeper boot configuration problems.
To minimize the chances of encountering this error again:

• Shut Down Properly: Avoid forced shutdowns or abrupt power-offs.
• Run Regular Maintenance: Use CHKDSK and SFC periodically to catch issues early.
• Keep Drivers Updated: Update drivers via Device Manager or manufacturer websites.
• Use Antivirus Software: Scan regularly to prevent malware-related corruption.
• Back Up Frequently: Use tools like AOMEI Backupper or cloud services to protect data.