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How to Fix Automatic Repair Failed Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Experiencing the “Automatic Repair Failed” error on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This error usually appears when your system is unable to boot properly and Windows tries to repair itself but fails. Fortunately, there are several straightforward methods to fix this issue without losing your data.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to resolve the Automatic Repair Failed error. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along easily. By the end, your Windows 11 PC should be up and running smoothly again.

Before diving into the fixes, it’s important to understand why this error occurs. It often happens due to corrupted system files, faulty hardware, or improper shutdowns. Identifying the cause helps in applying the right solution.

Let’s begin with the easiest methods and move towards more advanced ones if needed.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks Before You Start

  • Backup Your Data: If possible, back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage before performing repairs.
  • Power Supply: Ensure your PC is plugged into a reliable power source to avoid interruptions during repairs.
  • Have a Windows 11 Installation Media Ready: You might need a USB flash drive with Windows 11 installation files for advanced troubleshooting. You can create this using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool.
  • Patience is Key: Some fixes take time, so avoid force restarting your PC multiple times.

Step 1: Perform a Simple Restart

Sometimes, the Automatic Repair loop is caused by temporary glitches. The first and easiest step is to simply restart your computer.

  1. Press and hold the power button until the PC turns off completely.
  2. Wait for about 10 seconds.
  3. Press the power button again to turn it back on.

If the error persists, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with only the essential drivers, which can help identify if a third-party app or driver is causing the problem.

  1. When stuck in the Automatic Repair screen, select Advanced options.
  2. Click on Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  3. Click Restart.
  4. After restart, press 4 or F4 to enter Safe Mode.

Once in Safe Mode, check if your PC runs smoothly. If yes, uninstall any recently installed apps or drivers that might be causing the issue.

Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Commands

Corrupted system files often cause boot issues. Running these built-in tools helps repair damaged Windows files.

  1. From the Advanced options screen, select Command Prompt.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically repair any corrupted files it finds.
  4. Next, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool by typing:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Wait until the process finishes, then close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.

Step 4: Check and Repair Disk Errors

Hard drive issues can trigger Automatic Repair failures. Use the disk check tool to scan and fix errors.

  1. Open Command Prompt from the Advanced options.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    chkdsk /f /r C:
  3. You may be asked to schedule this scan on the next restart. Type Y and press Enter.
  4. Restart your computer to allow the disk check to run.

This scan looks for bad sectors and attempts to fix them, which can resolve boot issues caused by disk damage.

Step 5: Disable Automatic Startup Repair

If Automatic Repair keeps looping, temporarily disabling it might help you boot normally and troubleshoot further.

  1. Open Command Prompt from the Advanced options.
  2. Type this command and press Enter:
    bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled no
  3. Restart your PC.

Note: Disabling Automatic Repair means Windows won’t attempt repairs automatically, so use this only if other methods fail.

Step 6: Use System Restore

System Restore lets you revert your PC to a previous working state without affecting personal files.

  1. Go to Advanced options > System Restore.
  2. Follow the prompts to select a restore point dated before the error started.
  3. Confirm and let the process complete.
  4. Your PC will restart and hopefully boot normally.

Step 7: Reset Your PC

If none of the above fixes work, resetting Windows 11 can restore your system settings and files to default.

  1. Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
  2. Select whether to Keep my files or Remove everything. Keeping files preserves your personal data but removes apps and settings.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

This process reinstalls Windows and often resolves persistent errors.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If you are comfortable with more advanced troubleshooting, you can try repairing the Master Boot Record (MBR) or rebuilding the Boot Configuration Data (BCD):

  • Open Command Prompt from Advanced options.
  • Run these commands one by one:
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

These commands repair boot-related files that are essential for Windows startup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the Automatic Repair Failed error?

This error is usually caused by corrupted system files, faulty hardware, driver conflicts, or improper shutdowns.

Will fixing this error delete my files?

Most troubleshooting steps do not delete your personal files. However, resetting the PC or reinstalling Windows may remove apps and settings. Always back up important data if possible.

Can I use Safe Mode to fix this error?

Yes, Safe Mode is a useful environment to uninstall problematic apps or drivers that might cause boot issues.

What if I don’t have a Windows 11 installation media?

You can create one using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool on a working computer and a USB drive with at least 8GB free space.

Is it safe to disable Automatic Repair?

Disabling Automatic Repair is a temporary workaround and should be used carefully since it prevents Windows from attempting automatic fixes.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions resolve the Automatic Repair Failed error, it might point to more serious hardware problems or system corruption. Consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for expert help.
  • Check Hardware: Test your hard drive and RAM using diagnostic tools or seek professional assistance.
  • Clean Install Windows 11: As a last resort, perform a complete clean installation of Windows after backing up your data.

Conclusion

The Automatic Repair Failed error in Windows 11 can be concerning but is often fixable with systematic troubleshooting. Starting from simple restarts and Safe Mode to running system checks and resetting your PC covers most scenarios.

Always take care to back up your data before attempting repairs, and proceed step-by-step to avoid unnecessary complications. With patience and the right approach, your PC will be back to normal in no time.

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