Startup Repair cannot repair this computer automatically

G’day! Welcome to SureCanDo Computer Services, your one-stop solution for all your computing issues. Today, we’ll be discussing a common problem faced by users of Windows 11/10/8/7 and Vista – the frustrating “Startup Repair cannot repair this computer automatically” error. We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide with 6 solutions to help you tackle this issue head-on.

Understanding the Error

Startup Repair is an inbuilt tool in Windows that scrutinises and rectifies missing or damaged system files on your machine. It comes in handy when your computer doesn’t boot properly. However, the “Startup Repair cannot repair this computer automatically” error message has become a common sight, indicating a few potential issues:

  1. An incompatible device connected to your computer.
  2. A damaged file system on your system disk.
  3. A corrupted Master Boot Record (MBR) on the hard drive.
  4. Possible virus attacks, disk write errors, or power outages affecting your disk.

Solving the Issue: Step-by-step Guide

If you’re unable to pinpoint why Windows Startup Repair failed, don’t stress, we’ve got you covered. Try the following solutions, starting with the simplest first.

Method 1: Remove Peripheral Devices

Microsoft recommends that if you have recently connected a device to your computer, such as a camera or portable music player, it’s a good idea to remove it and restart your computer. Often, Windows cannot carry out automatic repairs due to issues with the connected device.

Method 2: Run Bootrec.exe

Bootrec.exe, also known as Bootrec, is a tool that can be used to rectify issues with the MBR, Boot Sector, Boot Configuration (BCD), and boot.ini. Running this tool can solve problems stemming from a corrupted MBR or BCD. You will need a Windows recovery disk to execute this method. Here’s how you can do it:

In Windows 7:

  1. Restart your computer and press “F8” at the sight of the Windows logo.
  2. Choose “Repair Your Computer” from the advanced boot options.
  3. In the system recovery options, opt for “Command Prompt”.
  4. Enter the following commands one by one: bootrec /fixmbr bootrec /fixboot

Method 3: Run CHKDSK

Bad sectors and file system errors on your hard drive could be the culprit behind the error message “Startup Repair cannot repair the computer automatically”. Running CHKDSK can spot and fix these disk errors.

  1. Restart your computer and press “F8” at the sight of the Windows logo.
  2. Choose “Repair Your Computer” from the advanced boot options.
  3. In the system recovery options, opt for “Command Prompt”.
  4. Enter the following command: chkdsk C: /f /r

Please note “C” represents the drive letter of your Windows installation drive.

Method 4: Run Windows System File Checker Tool

Windows System File Checker Tool can repair missing or corrupted Windows system files. You don’t need a Windows installation CD for this method, just boot into the Safe Mode with Command Prompt. Follow the steps below:

  1. Restart your computer and press “F8” every second until you see the Windows logo.
  2. From the “Advanced Boot Options” menu, select “Safe Mode with Command Prompt”.
  3. In the Command Prompt, enter the following command: sfc /scannow /offbootdir=d:\ /offwindir=d:\windows
  4. Restart your computer.

Method 5: Perform System Restore

If you’ve previously created a system restore point on your Windows machine, you can restore your system to its previous state, thus resolving the issue. However, it’s important to note that performing a system restore will remove any apps, drivers, and updates installed after the restore point was created.

Method 6: Repair Startup Error Without System Backup

If you haven’t created a system backup, resolving the “Startup Repair couldn’t repair your PC” error can be quite tricky. However, you can resort to clean installing or reinstalling your Windows OS. You can get online assistance from Microsoft or refer to our article on how to clean install Windows 10.

Preventing the Error

Once you’ve resolved the issue and got your system up and running, it doesn’t mean your PC is invincible now. There are still potential risks such as virus attacks, system crashes, and data loss. To secure your system and data from these risks, you should consider investing in robust Windows system backup software such as EaseUS Todo Backup. It offers comprehensive backup options like System Backup, File Backup, Disk/Partition Backup, System Clone, and more.

The “Startup Repair cannot repair this computer automatically” error is a complex issue, and applying these solutions may be challenging, especially if you aren’t familiar with the inner workings of your PC. If you’re uncomfortable performing these steps, you can always reach out to our team at SureCanDo Computer Services. We’re always ready to help you resolve your computer issues, because here at SureCanDo, we surely can do!