Windows Automatic Repair is a built-in feature designed to diagnose and fix common startup issues automatically when your computer encounters problems booting up. However, sometimes Automatic Repair itself can fail, leading to an “Automatic Repair loop” where your computer keeps rebooting without successfully starting Windows.
How Automatic Repair Works
When Windows detects a startup problem, it will automatically launch the Startup Repair tool. This tool analyzes startup log files to determine the cause of the issue, such as corrupted system files, missing boot files, or a damaged Master Boot Record (MBR). If the problem is identified, Automatic Repair will attempt to fix it automatically.
The Startup Repair tool generates a log file at %windir%\System32\LogFiles\Srt\Srttrail.txt that provides details on the startup problems and any repairs made.
What Causes the Automatic Repair Loop?
The Automatic Repair loop occurs when the Startup Repair tool fails to resolve the underlying issue, causing Windows to repeatedly attempt the repair process. This can happen for several reasons:
- Corrupted, deleted, or misconfigured system files
- Malware or virus infections
- Damaged Boot Configuration Data (BCD) settings
- Corrupted boot partition
When the Automatic Repair loop occurs, you will see one of the following error messages:
- “Preparing Automatic Repair” screen stuck in a loop
- “Automatic Repair” blue screen
- “Startup Repair couldn’t repair your PC” blue screen
In these cases, you will be unable to access Windows and perform any tasks until the issue is resolved.
How to Fix the Automatic Repair Loop
If you encounter the Automatic Repair loop, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Remove all external devices and restart your computer
- Update your BIOS, Windows, and drivers to the latest versions
- Disable automatic restart on system failure
- Run the CHKDSK command to check for and fix disk errors
- Boot into Safe Mode and run the Command Prompt
- Repair the Master Boot Record (MBR) and rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)
- Run the SFC /scannow command to scan for and repair corrupted system files
- Disable Early Launch Anti-malware Protection
- Delete any problematic files causing the issue
- Perform a system reset as a last resort
If none of these steps resolve the Automatic Repair loop, you may need to use Windows installation media to access advanced troubleshooting options, such as the Startup Repair tool.
To do this, follow these steps:
- Start your computer with the Windows installation media
- On the “Install Windows” screen, select “Next” and then “Repair your computer”
- Select “Troubleshoot” from the “Choose an option” screen
- Select “Startup Repair” from the “Advanced options” screen
- After Startup Repair completes, select “Shutdown” and then turn on your PC to see if Windows boots properly
If you continue to experience issues, you may need to perform a clean install of Windows or seek further assistance from Microsoft Support or a qualified technician.