Fix Preparing Automatic Repair Loop on Windows 10 | Step-by-Step Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Causes the Preparing Automatic Repair Loop?
3. Methods to Fix the Preparing Automatic Repair Loop
   • 3.1 Restarting Your PC
   • 3.2 Using Safe Mode to Bypass the Loop
   • 3.3 Running System File Checker (SFC) and Check Disk (CHKDSK) Tools
   • 3.4 Rebuilding the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)
   • 3.5 Using the Windows Startup Repair Tool
   • 3.6 Resetting Windows Without Data Loss
4. Preventing Future Repair Loop Issues
5. FAQs

Introduction

The “Preparing Automatic Repair” loop is a common issue in Windows 10, often occurring when the system cannot complete the startup process. This loop leaves users stuck on a repetitive screen, unable to access the desktop or any files. Fortunately, several solutions can resolve this issue and help users avoid data loss and system damage. This article provides a detailed guide on how to fix the Preparing Automatic Repair loop on Windows 10.

What Causes the Preparing Automatic Repair Loop?

The Preparing Automatic Repair loop can result from several underlying causes, including:

• Corrupted system files: System files may become corrupted due to improper shutdowns, software conflicts, or malware.
• Disk errors: Bad sectors or disk errors can prevent Windows from booting up correctly.
• Faulty updates: Incomplete or incompatible updates may cause boot issues.
• Hardware failures: Hardware issues, such as a failing hard drive or incompatible components, can trigger startup problems.

Knowing these causes can help determine which fix might be most effective for your particular situation.

Methods to Fix the Preparing Automatic Repair Loop

Here are the most effective methods for fixing the Preparing Automatic Repair loop in Windows 10.

3.1 Restarting Your PC

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor boot issues.

1. Force Restart: Hold down the Power button for 10 seconds to turn off the computer completely.
2. Restart: Press the Power button again to restart the system. If the loop persists, proceed to the next solution.

3.2 Using Safe Mode to Bypass the Loop

Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and services, allowing troubleshooting without interference from third-party programs.

1. Interrupt the Boot Process: Restart the computer three times consecutively by pressing and holding the Power button during startup. Windows will then enter Advanced Startup Options.
2. Access Safe Mode: Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. Then, press 4 or F4 to enter Safe Mode.
3. Troubleshoot the Issue: Once in Safe Mode, uninstall recently installed software or update outdated drivers that might be causing the issue.

3.3 Running System File Checker (SFC) and Check Disk (CHKDSK) Tools

Corrupted files or disk errors often contribute to startup problems. The System File Checker and Check Disk tools can scan and repair these issues.

1. Access Command Prompt:
   • From the Advanced Startup Options menu, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
2. Run System File Checker (SFC): Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This command scans for and repairs corrupted system files.
3. Run Check Disk (CHKDSK): Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter. This will scan the disk for errors and repair any found.

3.4 Rebuilding the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

Corrupt or missing Boot Configuration Data can cause Windows to fail during startup. Rebuilding the BCD can fix this.

1. Open Command Prompt:
   • From Advanced Startup Options, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
2. Enter Boot Commands:
   • Type bootrec /fixmbr and press Enter.
   • Type bootrec /fixboot and press Enter.
   • Type bootrec /rebuildbcd and press Enter.
3. Restart the Computer: Close Command Prompt and select Continue to restart.

3.5 Using the Windows Startup Repair Tool

Windows Startup Repair can automatically diagnose and fix certain boot issues.

1. Access Advanced Startup Options: Interrupt the boot process three times as explained earlier.
2. Run Startup Repair:
   • Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
   • Choose your account, enter your password if prompted, and let Windows attempt the repair.

3.6 Resetting Windows Without Data Loss

If none of the above methods work, a Windows reset can resolve deeper issues without deleting personal files.

1. Access Advanced Startup Options.
2. Select Reset this PC: Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
3. Choose Keep My Files: This option reinstalls Windows without affecting personal files. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Preventing Future Repair Loop Issues

After resolving the Preparing Automatic Repair loop, consider these steps to prevent similar issues:

• Perform Regular Updates: Keep Windows and device drivers up to date to avoid compatibility issues.
• Run Disk Maintenance: Regularly run tools like CHKDSK to detect and fix disk errors.
• Create System Restore Points: System Restore points provide a rollback option for major changes or updates.
• Use Antivirus Software: Protect the system from malware that can corrupt system files.
• Shutdown Properly: Avoid forced shutdowns to prevent file corruption.

Following these practices reduces the likelihood of encountering repair loop issues in the future.

FAQs

1. Why does my PC get stuck in the Preparing Automatic Repair loop?

The loop often occurs due to corrupted files, disk errors, or problematic updates. Running tools like SFC and CHKDSK can help repair these issues.

2. Can a hardware failure cause the Preparing Automatic Repair loop?

Yes, hardware problems, especially with the hard drive, can lead to boot issues. Consider running hardware diagnostics if software-based fixes do not resolve the issue.

3. Is there a way to fix the loop without resetting my PC?

Yes, try restarting, entering Safe Mode, or using Startup Repair. Resetting is typically a last-resort option when other methods fail.

4. Will resetting Windows delete my files?

Using the Keep My Files option allows resetting without deleting personal files. However, applications and settings will be removed.

5. How can I prevent the Preparing Automatic Repair loop in the future?

Regular system maintenance, such as updating Windows, running antivirus scans, and using System Restore points, can prevent issues that may lead to the repair loop.

By following this guide, you can resolve the Preparing Automatic Repair loop on Windows 10 and prevent future occurrences. Regular maintenance and careful troubleshooting ensure a stable and smooth Windows experience.