When a Windows PC runs into a problem at startup, it may show the message “Preparing Automatic Repair”. This is a feature designed to help fix boot-up issues by automatically diagnosing and repairing problems. If the PC cannot start normally, Windows will often trigger this tool in hopes of solving the issue without user intervention. The process is going to be largely the same no matter who your PC manufacturer is – because this is a Microsoft function. So whether you have a Lenovo or Dell or even a custom build, the Automatic Repair function is built into Windows 10 and 11.
Sometimes, the automatic repair can become stuck in a loop, where it repeatedly attempts to fix an issue but fails, restarting the process over and over. This can occur due to various problems with system files, hardware, or recent updates. When faced with this repair loop, it is important to interrupt the cycle and try different troubleshooting methods.
Understanding the “Preparing Automatic Repair” Message in Windows
If you’ve seen the “Preparing Automatic Repair” message, chances are your Windows computer ran into trouble during startup. This message means that Windows has a built-in feature designed to troubleshoot and fix problems preventing it from booting correctly.
What Triggers Automatic Repair?
Here’s a breakdown of why it might be happening:
- Corrupted System Files: Missing, damaged, or incompatible system files are a common culprit.
- Hard Drive Issues: Failing sectors, file system errors, or a malfunctioning hard drive itself can lead to problems.
- Hardware Changes: Newly installed hardware might introduce conflicts, prompting Automatic Repair.
- Corrupt Boot Files: Damage to files responsible for the startup process can trigger the repair mechanism.
- Incorrect Boot Order: A change in your computer’s BIOS settings for boot order could cause loading issues.
What Happens During Automatic Repair
- Diagnosis: Windows scans system files, drivers, and startup settings, searching for potential problems.
- Repair Attempts: Automatic Repair tries to fix the issues it finds. This could include restoring files, repairing damaged boot components, or resetting configuration settings.
When Automatic Repair Gets Stuck
Unfortunately, sometimes Windows can get stuck in an “Automatic Repair loop.” Your computer will repeatedly restart, display the “Preparing Automatic Repair” message, and fail to boot normally.
Here’s a table outlining possible causes and how to troubleshoot them:
| Cause | Troubleshooting Steps |
|---|---|
| Corrupt System Files | Run System File Checker (SFC) and Check Disk (CHKDSK) utilities from Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). |
| Damaged Hard Drive | Test hard drive health. Use a disk repair tool, or, in severe cases, consider replacing it. |
| Incorrect BIOS Settings | Enter BIOS and correct your boot order. Ensure the correct hard drive is set as the primary boot device. |
| Recent Hardware Changes | Remove newly installed hardware temporarily to check if it’s causing the issue. |
If these steps don’t solve the issue, you may need to consider a clean install of Windows as a last resort.
Key Takeaways
- The “Preparing Automatic Repair” message indicates Windows is trying to fix boot-up issues.
- An automatic repair loop can occur if the repair process fails to fix the problem.
- Troubleshooting steps are necessary to resolve the automatic repair loop.
Understanding and Resolving the Automatic Repair Loop
When a Windows 10 computer fails to boot properly, it may enter an Automatic Repair Loop. This can be a challenging problem, but understanding the causes and applying the right fixes can resolve it.
How Long Should Preparing Automatic Repair Take?
While there’s no exact timeframe, the initial phase shouldn’t take longer than an hour or two. In cases of severe problems, it could potentially take several hours. If it extends beyond that with no signs of progress, it’s likely stuck in a loop.
Identifying the Cause and Symptoms
The Automatic Repair Loop often points to underlying issues like corrupted system files or a faulty boot sector. Common symptoms include recurring restarts with messages such as “Diagnosing your PC” or “Preparing Automatic Repair” followed by a blue or black screen stating “Your PC did not start correctly.” Identifying these signs early is key to troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting Steps for Repair
Initial Steps:
- Perform a Hard Reboot: Sometimes, simply turning off the computer and starting it again after a minute can resolve temporary glitches.
- Access Safe Mode: Repeatedly press the F8 or Shift + F8 keys during boot to open Advanced Boot Options and select Safe Mode to diagnose issues.
In-depth Troubleshooting:
- Use the Command Prompt from the boot menu to run useful commands like
chkdskandsfc /scannowto check and repair disk errors and system files. - If the loop persists, you might need to disable the automatic repair feature by using the Command Prompt to execute
bcdedit /set {current} recoveryenabled No.
Repair Tools and Recovery Options
- Startup Repair Tool: This is built into Windows and attempts to fix startup issues automatically.
- System Restore: If available, restore the computer to a previous state where the system was working correctly.
- Tools like
Fixbootcan repair the boot sector, whileBootrechandles Boot Configuration Data (BCD) issues.
Preventative Measures and Best Practices
- Keep drivers updated, and uninstall any that cause conflicts.
- Regularly install Windows updates for security and stability.
- Use antivirus software to prevent malware infections that could corrupt system files.
- Create a backup strategy to save personal files and system settings.
- Consider resetting Windows if all else fails, as a last resort to get rid of the loop.
What is an Automatic Repair Loop?
An automatic repair loop happens when Windows repeatedly tries and fails to repair itself. It will endlessly cycle through restarts and the “Preparing Automatic Repair” screen. This usually stems from issues more severe than typical startup problems.
What To Do When Automatic Repair Freezes
If your computer is seemingly stuck on this stage, here are your options:
- Force Shutdown: Hold the power button until the computer completely turns off. Restart and see if Windows boots normally. Repeat this a few times.
- Startup Repair: If restarting doesn’t work, access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE – usually by repeatedly pressing F8 or F11 during boot). Select “Troubleshoot” -> “Advanced options” -> “Startup Repair”.
- Boot into Safe Mode: Also from WinRE, try booting into Safe Mode (within “Advanced Options”). If this works, it indicates a driver or software issue, which you’ll need to troubleshoot once inside Safe Mode.
- System Restore: From WinRE, use the System Restore option to revert Windows back to a point when it was working correctly.
- Clean Install: As a last resort, perform a fresh Windows installation, but understand this will erase data unless you can back it up first.
Important: If your PC continuously fails during Automatic Repair, forcing you into a loop, you might have underlying hardware problems. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult a technician for further diagnosis.
