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How to Fix Video TDR Failure Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

The Video TDR Failure error on Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your work or entertainment. This error usually relates to your graphics card or its drivers. Fixing it involves a few straightforward steps that anyone can follow.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple troubleshooting methods to resolve the Video TDR Failure error. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can understand and apply them easily.

By following these instructions, you can get your Windows 11 PC back to running smoothly without unexpected crashes. Let’s dive into the solutions and fix the problem step-by-step.

Before you start, it’s good to know why this error happens and what basic checks you can do to avoid unnecessary complications.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before troubleshooting the Video TDR Failure error, make sure you perform these quick checks:

  • Restart Your PC: Sometimes, a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches in your system.
  • Check Windows Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates often include important fixes for hardware and drivers.
  • Check for Overheating: Overheated hardware can cause errors. Make sure your PC is clean and well-ventilated.
  • Backup Important Data: Before making system changes, always save your important files to avoid any accidental data loss.

Step 1: Update Your Graphics Drivers

The most common cause of the Video TDR Failure error is outdated or corrupt graphics drivers. Updating your drivers can often fix the issue.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
  2. Find and expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click on your graphics card and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest driver and install it.
  5. After the update, restart your computer to apply changes.

Why this step is important: Graphics drivers manage how your PC communicates with your graphics hardware. Outdated drivers can cause conflicts and errors like Video TDR Failure.

Step 2: Roll Back Graphics Driver (If Problem Started After Update)

If the error appeared after a recent driver update, rolling back to the previous version might help.

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Expand Display adapters, right-click your graphics card, and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver.
  4. Follow the prompts and restart your PC after the rollback.

Why this helps: Sometimes new drivers introduce bugs. Returning to a stable previous version can restore normal functionality.

Step 3: Increase the TDR Timeout Value

TDR stands for Timeout Detection and Recovery. Increasing its timeout value gives your graphics card more time to respond before Windows triggers the error.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following key:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlGraphicsDrivers
  3. Right-click on the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it TdrDelay.
  4. Double-click TdrDelay and set the value data to 8 (this means 8 seconds).
  5. Click OK and close the Registry Editor.
  6. Restart your computer to apply the change.

Important: Be cautious when editing the registry. Creating a backup before making changes is recommended.

Step 4: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools

Corrupted system files can cause the Video TDR Failure error. Running Windows built-in repair tools can help fix them.

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. It will repair any corrupted files it finds.
  4. Next, run the DISM tool by typing these commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. After these scans complete, restart your PC.

Why run these tools? They check and repair important Windows system files that may affect your graphics subsystem.

Step 5: Check for Hardware Issues

If software fixes don’t work, the issue might be with your hardware. Common hardware causes include faulty graphics cards or overheating.

  • Clean Dust From Inside Your PC: Dust can cause overheating. Use compressed air to clean the fans and vents.
  • Check Graphics Card Seating: Make sure your graphics card is properly installed in its slot.
  • Test Your Graphics Card: If possible, try your graphics card in another PC to see if the error persists.
  • Monitor Temperatures: Use free tools like HWMonitor to check if your GPU is overheating.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Safe Mode

If you keep getting crashes during normal operation, try troubleshooting in Safe Mode. Safe Mode loads only essential drivers, which can help isolate the problem.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System > Recovery.
  3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
  4. After restart, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
  5. Press 4 to enter Safe Mode.
  6. Try updating or rolling back drivers here or running system scans.

FAQs

What causes the Video TDR Failure error?

This error is usually caused by problems with your graphics card or its drivers. It can also be due to hardware issues, overheating, or corrupted system files.

Is Video TDR Failure related to hardware or software?

It can be either. Most often, it’s a driver-related software issue, but faulty hardware or overheating can also trigger it.

Can updating Windows fix this error?

Yes, Windows updates often include important fixes for hardware compatibility and drivers, so keeping your system updated is important.

What if I don’t have a dedicated graphics card?

The error can still occur with integrated graphics. The troubleshooting steps remain largely the same.

Is it safe to edit the Windows Registry?

Editing the registry can fix issues but should be done carefully. Always back up the registry before making changes.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the Video TDR Failure error, consider these final options:

  • Contact Your PC Manufacturer’s Support: They may provide specific solutions or warranty support.
  • Visit the Official Microsoft Support Page: Microsoft often publishes updates and fixes for common errors.
    https://support.microsoft.com/en-us
  • Consider a Clean Windows Installation: As a last resort, reinstalling Windows 11 can fix deep system problems but make sure to backup all your data first.
  • Professional Hardware Check: If hardware faults are suspected, consult a professional technician for diagnosis and repair.

Conclusion

The Video TDR Failure error on Windows 11 often signals issues with your graphics drivers or hardware. Starting with simple steps like updating or rolling back drivers can save you time and frustration. Adjusting system settings and running repair tools further help resolve the problem.

If hardware issues are the cause, cleaning, checking, or replacing components may be necessary. Always proceed carefully and back up your data before making major changes.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can troubleshoot and fix the Video TDR Failure error effectively and get your PC running smoothly again.

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