Windows 10 sometimes gets stuck in an Automatic Repair loop, which means your PC keeps trying to fix startup problems but never succeeds. This can be frustrating, especially if you need urgent access to your files or programs. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to resolve this issue without needing technical expertise.
In this guide, we will walk you through clear and easy-to-follow solutions to fix the Automatic Repair loop. Each step is explained in detail, so you know exactly what to do and why it matters. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, these instructions will help you get your Windows 10 back to normal.
Before diving into complex fixes, it’s important to perform some quick checks. These can save you time and prevent data loss. Let’s start by understanding the basics and then move towards more advanced troubleshooting.
By the end of this article, you will have multiple options to try, including both automatic and manual methods. You will also find answers to common questions and advice on what to do if nothing else works.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
Before attempting any fixes, ensure the following:
- Backup Your Data: If possible, back up important files using a USB drive or external hard disk. The repair process can sometimes cause data loss.
- Disconnect External Devices: Remove any unnecessary USB drives, printers, or external hardware. Sometimes these devices interfere with startup.
- Power Supply: Make sure your laptop or PC is plugged into a stable power source to avoid interruptions during repair.
- Patience: The Automatic Repair process may take several minutes. Avoid restarting your computer multiple times during this phase.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer Properly
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix the stuck repair loop. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Press and hold the power button on your computer until it turns off completely.
- Wait for about 10 seconds to ensure the system is fully powered down.
- Press the power button again to turn it back on.
- Check if Windows boots normally or if the repair loop continues.
Why this matters: A forced shutdown can reset temporary glitches that cause the loop. This step is the easiest and fastest fix to try first.
Step 2: Use Windows 10 Startup Repair Tool
If restarting doesn’t help, you can use the built-in Startup Repair tool. It scans and fixes common boot problems automatically.
- Turn off your PC by holding the power button.
- Turn it back on and as soon as the Windows logo appears, press and hold the power button again to force shutdown.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times until the system enters Automatic Repair mode.
- On the “Automatic Repair” screen, select Advanced options.
- Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
- Select your user account and enter the password if prompted.
- Wait while Windows checks for issues and tries to fix them.
Why this matters: Startup Repair can automatically resolve corrupted system files or boot configuration errors without manual input.
Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
If Startup Repair does not fix the loop, corrupted system files might be the cause. Running SFC and DISM commands can help repair them.
- From the “Advanced options” screen, select Command Prompt.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
This command scans for missing or corrupted system files and attempts to repair them.
- Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time.
- If SFC finds issues but cannot fix them, run these two commands one by one:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
These commands check the health of your Windows image and repair it if necessary.
Why this matters: System file corruption often causes boot errors. These tools help restore Windows files without reinstalling the OS.
Step 4: Disable Automatic Repair Loop via Command Prompt
If the Automatic Repair loop persists, you can disable it temporarily to boot into Windows and troubleshoot further.
- Access the Command Prompt from the “Advanced options” menu.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled No
This command disables the Automatic Repair feature.
- Close Command Prompt and restart your PC.
- Your computer should now boot normally or at least allow you to access Windows.
Why this matters: Disabling Automatic Repair helps break the loop so you can try other fixes or back up data safely.
Step 5: Perform a System Restore
If you have created restore points before the problem started, performing a System Restore can revert your PC to a healthy state.
- From the “Advanced options” menu, select System Restore.
- Choose your user account and enter the password if prompted.
- Select a restore point dated before the Automatic Repair issue began.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process.
- Once done, your computer will restart and hopefully boot normally.
Why this matters: System Restore reverses recent changes that might have caused the repair loop, without affecting your personal files.
Step 6: Reset Your PC
If all else fails, resetting Windows 10 is an option to reinstall the operating system while keeping or removing your files.
- Go to the “Advanced options” menu and select Reset this PC.
- Choose between:
- Keep my files: Removes apps and settings but keeps personal files.
- Remove everything: Resets the PC completely, deleting all files.
- Follow the instructions to start the reset process.
- This process may take some time and your PC will restart several times.
Why this matters: Resetting can fix deep system issues but should be used as a last resort because it may result in data loss.
FAQs
Why does Windows 10 get stuck in the Automatic Repair loop?
This usually happens due to corrupted system files, hardware issues, or problems with recent updates. It’s Windows’ way of trying to fix startup problems automatically.
Can I access my files during the Automatic Repair loop?
Direct access is limited, but you can boot into Safe Mode or use a bootable USB to recover files before attempting repairs.
Is it safe to disable Automatic Repair?
Disabling it temporarily can help break the loop, but it should be re-enabled later. Use this option only if other methods fail.
Will resetting my PC delete my personal files?
You have the choice to keep or remove your files during the reset. However, it’s always best to back up important data before resetting.
What if my PC still won’t boot after all these steps?
There might be a hardware problem or severe corruption. Consider seeking professional help or contacting Microsoft support.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and your PC remains stuck in the Automatic Repair loop, consider the following options:
- Use a Bootable Windows 10 USB: Create a Windows 10 installation media on another computer. Boot from it to access advanced repair tools or reinstall Windows.
- Check Hardware Components: Faulty hard drives or RAM can cause boot issues. If comfortable, test or replace these components.
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Windows support page at support.microsoft.com/windows for professional assistance.
- Visit a Repair Center: If your device is under warranty, contact the manufacturer or local service center for diagnostics and repair.
Conclusion
Getting stuck in the Windows 10 Automatic Repair loop can be stressful, but it’s usually fixable with some patience and the right steps. Starting with simple restarts and moving through repair tools, system scans, and restoration methods allows you to resolve most issues without losing your data.
Always remember to back up important files and disconnect unnecessary devices before troubleshooting. If the problem persists, resetting your PC or seeking professional help are valid options.
By following this guide, you should be able to get your Windows 10 system back up and running smoothly. Stay calm, take one step at a time, and your computer will be fixed before you know it.