How To Fix WHEA Uncorrectable Error on Windows 11

The WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR, short for Windows Hardware Error Architecture Uncorrectable Error, can be a daunting issue for Windows 11 users. This error typically occurs due to misconfigured BIOS settings or hardware component failures in your system. However, before delving into hardware troubleshooting, it’s essential to ensure there are no software-related issues causing the problem, as these are often easier to resolve without professional help.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through various solutions to diagnose the root cause of the WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR and provide steps to resolve it. Additionally, we’ll cover scenarios where the error might be triggered by software bugs and show you how to fix those as well.

Since there can be multiple reasons for encountering this error, you may need to apply several fixes listed below to completely eliminate it from your PC. However, before you begin troubleshooting, let’s delve into why this error occurs in the first place.

Why Does the WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR Occur?

The WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR is a critical issue that can lead to system crashes if not addressed promptly. It’s a common Blue Screen of Death(BSOD) error that occurs when your PC automatically shuts down to prevent data loss. However, the error itself can potentially lead to data loss, as it may remove your personal files and folders during the recovery process.

While hardware malfunctions are the most common cause of this error, it can also be triggered by driver incompatibilities, outdated Windows versions and even CPU overclocking. Don’t overlook the possibility of a failing hard drive, faulty memory, incorrectly installed CPU, or various other hardware issues as potential culprits.

Notably, overclocking the CPU can also result in this error. If you’ve recently overclocked your CPU and started experiencing this issue, reverting to default settings may immediately resolve the problem.

Let’s get started with the troubleshooting steps:

Check for Bad Sectors on Your Hard Drive

The first step is to check for and repair any bad sectors on your hard drive using the CHKDSK command. This can be done through File Explorer or the Command Prompt. Here’s how:

Via File Explorer:

1. Double-click on the ‘This PC’ icon on your desktop or press Windows+E on your keyboard.
2. Right-click on the drive you want to check and select ‘Properties.’
3. Go to the ‘Tools’ tab and click ‘Check’ in the ‘Error Checking’ section.
4. If no errors are found, you might receive a notification. If you still want to proceed, click ‘Scan drive.’ If not, click ‘Cancel.’
5. The scan may take some time, so be patient. You can use the disk while scanning, but avoid making changes during the repair phase.

If errors are detected and repaired, great! If not, let’s move on to the next solution.

Run Windows Memory Diagnostics

Faulty RAM can often be the culprit behind the WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR. To check your RAM for issues, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Start Menu and type “Memory Diagnostics” to search for it.
2. Click on the ‘Windows Memory Diagnostics’ option from the search results.
3. On the ‘Windows Memory Diagnostic’ window, select ‘Restart now and check for problems.’ This will initiate a RAM check during the next boot.

Uninstall Recently Installed Updates

If you’ve encountered this error after installing an update, consider uninstalling it:

1. Access the Start Menu and click on ‘Settings.’
2. Go to the ‘Windows Update’ tab on the left sidebar.
3. Under ‘More options,’ click on ‘Update history.’
4. Scroll down to ‘Uninstall updates’ under ‘Related settings.’
5. Locate the most recent update and click ‘Uninstall.’

After uninstalling, check if the error persists.

Update or Install Missing Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers can also trigger this error. You can update drivers via the Settings app or Device Manager:

Via Settings:

1. Open the Start Menu and click on ‘Settings.’
2. Go to the ‘Windows Update’ tab.
3. Click ‘Advanced options’ under ‘More options.’
4. Scroll down and click ‘Optional updates’ under ‘Additional options.’
5. Locate the ‘Driver updates’ section, select the relevant driver and click ‘Download & install.’

Alternatively, you can update drivers via Device Manager:

1. Type “Device Manager” in the Start Menu search bar and open it.
2. Locate the category of the driver you want to update(e.g., Bluetooth).
3. Right-click the specific driver and choose ‘Update driver.’
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.

Restart your PC after driver updates to see if the error is resolved.

Disable External Audio Devices

Some users have reported success in resolving the error by disabling external audio devices:

1. Open the Start Menu and click on ‘Settings.’
2. Select ‘System.’
3. Click on ‘Sound’ and scroll down to ‘More sound settings’ under ‘Advanced.’
4. Right-click non-default playback listings and choose ‘Disable.’ Repeat this for all non-default listings.

Reset Your PC

If none of the above methods work, consider resetting your PC:

1. Access the Start Menu and click on ‘Settings.’
2. Select ‘System.’
3. Click on ‘Recovery.’
4. Locate ‘Reset this PC’ and click ‘Reset PC.’
5. Choose ‘Keep my files’ if you want to retain personal files.
6. Follow the prompts to reset your PC. This will reinstall the OS, preserving your files but removing programs and restoring settings to default.

Check for Overclocking

As mentioned earlier, CPU overclocking can be a culprit in triggering the WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR. If you’ve overclocked your CPU, consider reverting to default settings:

1. Access your system’s BIOS settings during startup(usually by pressing a key like F2, Delete, or F12).
2. Locate the CPU overclocking settings and set them back to default.
3. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.

Perform a System File Check

Corrupted system files can also lead to this error. You can use the System File Checker(sfc) tool to scan and repair these files:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by searching for “Command Prompt” in the Start Menu, right-clicking on it and selecting “Run as administrator”.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
3. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time. The tool will attempt to repair any corrupted system files it finds.
4. Once the scan is finished, restart your computer.

Update BIOS

Outdated BIOS firmware can contribute to hardware-related errors. Visit your computer manufacturer’s website to check for BIOS updates specific to your model. Follow their instructions for updating the BIOS carefully, as this process varies from one manufacturer to another.

Check Hardware Connections

Loose or improperly connected hardware components can cause the WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR. Ensure that all your hardware components, such as RAM modules, graphics cards and hard drives, are securely seated in their respective slots. If you suspect a hardware issue, consider reseating or replacing the problematic component.

Monitor System Temperatures

Overheating can lead to hardware errors, including the WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR. Use monitoring software to check your CPU and GPU temperatures. If they are running excessively hot, clean your computer’s cooling system, replace thermal paste, or consider adding additional cooling solutions such as fans or liquid cooling.

Perform a Clean Windows Installation

If all else fails, performing a clean installation of Windows can resolve persistent issues. Back up your important files and follow these steps:

1. Download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website.
2. Use the tool to create a bootable USB drive or DVD.
3. Boot your computer from the bootable media.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to perform a clean installation of Windows 11.

Remember to back up all your important files before proceeding with a clean installation, as it will erase everything on your system drive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR can be a challenging issue to tackle, but with patience and a systematic approach, you can resolve it. Start with software-related fixes and gradually move towards hardware troubleshooting if necessary. Remember to back up your data before attempting any major changes to your system.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be well-equipped to diagnose and resolve the WHEA_UNCORRECTABLE_ERROR on your Windows 11 PC. Good luck!

Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.