How to Fix the Windows 11 “Preparing Automatic Repair” Loop (Quick & Simple Guide)

Introduction

Getting stuck in the Preparing Automatic Repair loop is one of the most common Windows 11 problems. The good news? It’s usually fixable in minutes. Here are the fixes Idaho PC Solutions uses on real customer machines.

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H2 – Fix 1: Perform a Hard Reboot

This clears temporary boot errors.

1. Hold the power button until the PC shuts off.

2. Unplug the power for 30 seconds.

3. Turn it back on.

If the loop continues, move to the next fix.

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H2 – Fix 2: Boot Into Advanced Startup

1. Turn the PC on.

2. As soon as the Windows logo appears → hold power until it shuts down.

3. Repeat 3 times.

4. Windows will enter Automatic Repair → Advanced Options.

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H2 – Fix 3: Run Startup Repair

Inside Advanced Options:
Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Startup Repair

Let Windows attempt the fix automatically.

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H2 – Fix 4: Run Boot Commands

Go to Command Prompt in Advanced Options and run these commands one at a time:

bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

Restart your PC.

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H2 – Fix 5: System Restore (If Available)

Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → System Restore

Choose a restore point from before the loop began.

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H2 – Fix 6: Reset Windows Without Losing Files

Troubleshoot → Reset this PC → Keep my files

This often fixes the problem if all else fails.

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H2 – Recommended Tools (Affiliate Links)

• USB Recovery Drive → [Insert Amazon Affiliate Link]

• External SSD for backups → [Insert Affiliate Link]

• Windows 11 Pro USB Installer → [Insert Affiliate Link]

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H2 – When To Call a Technician

If these steps don’t work, the problem may be:

• SSD/HDD failure

• Corrupted system files

• Malware

• RAM issues

Idaho PC Solutions handles these issues daily — this is a common fix.