Summary: Are you pestered by a system error called ‘Preparing Automatic Repair’ error while booting your system? This blog discusses the possible reasons for this error and the solutions to fix it. Also, you’ll find reliable data recovery software that can help you recover data from a non-bootable or inaccessible system.
Several Windows users, on various technology forums, such as Microsoft, Reddit, Dell, etc., have reported encountering the Preparing Automatic Repair error with different case scenarios. It is a problematic error as users cannot access their systems or even encounter blue or black screens. However, you can fix the error and get your system back in its functional state by following some easy-to-follow fixes mentioned in this post. Let’s get started!
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Windows 10 offers multiple recovery options to its users to deal with several critical errors. One of those recovery options is Automatic Repair that is designed to automatically troubleshoot common boot-related errors. However, sometimes, this feature fails and results in the Preparing Automatic Repair error. It is a system error that usually occurs while booting the system. However, users have reported multiple other situations when they’ve been troubled by this error, such as:
Hardware failure is usually the primary reason behind this error. However, there are other reasons that may also lead to the problem, such as:
Here are some easy-to-use solutions to fix the Automatic Repair Windows 10 error.
Note: Take back up of your data (if possible) or recover data from your system using advanced data recovery software before applying the following methods.
Firstly, forcefully restart your PC by removing the battery and the AC adapter. After that, re-plug the power back in and hold the power key for about 20 seconds. Now, check if the error is solved and your system restarts normally.
If this doesn’t help, proceed with the next solution.
You can try to boot your system in Safe Mode to bypass the ‘Preparing Automatic Repair’ error in Windows 10. Follow the given steps:
You can also try to resolve the Preparing Automatic Repair stuck or loop error by disabling or turning off the Automatic Repair on startup. To do so, follow the given instructions:
Resetting your PC is the official Windows solution to fix the Preparing Automatic Repair black screen error on Windows 10. You can either update or reset the PC directly. Follow the given steps:
Note: It’s recommended to choose ‘Remove everything’ to make the process work. It will remove incorrect or corrupt system settings, drivers, apps, software, etc., causing the error.
If none of the above methods helps resolve the Preparing Automatic Repair error on Windows 10, you can reinstall the Windows OS. To reinstall Windows 10, you will need a USB installer created with Media Creation Tool. Remember that Windows reinstallation will overwrite the partition data on which the OS is installed.
Additionally, all apps that came preinstalled with your PC or installed later manually will be removed. Some customized settings, such as the Power and Sleep settings, will also change to the default settings, affecting your hardware performance.
Hence, back up anything you want to keep before you begin or recover data using powerful data recovery software.
A. What is Automatic Repair?
Automatic Repair is a primary Windows troubleshooting tool that lets you fix critical system errors. This built-in feature helps you restore Windows even when you can’t boot into it normally or face any boot-up error.
B. Why is my computer showing an Automatic Repair loop?
Sometimes, your Windows may be stuck in an unusual Preparing Automatic Repair loop because of faulty Windows update, missing or damaged system files, Windows registry, or corrupted hard drives.
C. How long does automatic repair take on Windows 10?
Usually, Windows take around 15 minutes to complete the Automatic Repair process. So you’re advised not to interrupt the process. But if it keeps showing ‘Preparing Automatic Repair’ on your Windows 10 system for about 1 hour or so, it’s a sign of a problem.
D. How to recover data when the system doesn’t boot?
If you can’t boot into your system normally or facing a Windows boot-up error, you can use a powerful Windows data recovery software, such as Stellar Data Recovery Professional. It’s a DIY software that helps you restore data from crashed or unbootable Windows PCs and laptops.
E. I’m getting a black screen with ‘Error Loading Operating System’. How do I fix it?
This startup issue usually occurs after fresh Windows OS installation, sudden power failure, system reboot, or system crash. You can try to fix the Error Loading Operating System by following the given methods:
Mansi Verma is a Technology Writer at Stellar®. She is a Tech enthusiast, holding over 7 years of experience in Data Recovery, IoT, Artificial Intelligence, and the Robotics technology domain. She loves researching and providing DIY solutions and tips & tricks to solve Windows technical issues. In her spare time, she likes reading novels, and poetry. She also enjoys traveling and trekking.
