How To Fix “Startup Repair Couldn’t Repair Your PC”

If you’re staring at a blue screen saying “Startup Repair couldn’t repair your PC,” you’re not alone. Windows 10 and 11 users run into this problem more often than you’d think. The good news? You’ve got options. Here’s how to get your computer back on track.

What Causes This Error?

This error pops up when Windows tries to fix startup problems but hits a wall. Reasons include:

• Corrupted system files
• Damaged boot sector or partition
• Bad updates or drivers
• Hardware problems

Let’s get to the fixes.

1. Restart and Try Again

Sometimes it’s a fluke. Restart your PC a couple of times. If it keeps looping, move on.

2. Boot Into Safe Mode

If you can get into Safe Mode, you might be able to roll back drivers, uninstall updates, or scan for malware.

How to enter Safe Mode:

1. When your PC restarts, hold down the power button to interrupt the boot process. Do this 2-3 times.
2. Windows will launch “Automatic Repair.” Click Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
3. When you see options, press 4 to enable Safe Mode.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

These tools fix corrupt files.

1. On the “Automatic Repair” screen, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
2. Type:
   sfc /scannow
   Press Enter. Let it finish.
3. If errors persist, run:
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
   Then try SFC again.

4. Check Disk for Errors

Your hard drive could be the culprit.

1. In Command Prompt, type:
   chkdsk /f /r C:
   Press Enter. It may ask you to schedule a scan. Type Y, then restart.

5. Use Bootrec to Repair Boot Files

Boot files might be damaged.

1. Open Command Prompt.
2. Enter these commands, pressing Enter after each:
   bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd
3. Restart your PC.

6. System Restore

If you created a restore point, use it.

1. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore.
2. Follow the instructions to roll back to a time when your PC worked.

7. Uninstall Recent Updates

A recent update can break things.

1. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates.
2. Choose the latest update to remove.

8. Reset Your PC (Last Resort)

If nothing else works, reset your PC. You can choose to keep or remove your files.

1. Go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
2. Follow the prompts.

Final Tips

• Back up your data regularly. Problems like this happen.
• If none of these fixes work, you might have a failing hard drive or deeper hardware issue. Contact a pro.

Don’t let the “Startup Repair couldn’t repair your PC” message stress you out. With a few steps, you can usually get Windows working again.

Need more help? Drop a comment below and I’ll do my best to help you out.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!