Alex Ruben
How to Resolve the VIDEO TDR Failure BSOD Error on Windows
The VIDEO TDR Failure Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error is a common issue that many Windows users encounter, often linked to problems with graphics drivers, overheating hardware, or faulty components. This tutorial will guide you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix this error on Windows 10 and Windows 11, applicable for both desktops and laptops. By following the outlined steps, you will gain a better understanding of your system’s graphics settings and hardware, ensuring a smoother user experience.
Before starting, ensure that you have administrative access to your computer, and prepare any necessary installation media for graphics drivers if needed. You may also want to monitor your system’s temperature and performance during the process, as overheating can exacerbate these issues.
Step 1: Power Cycle Your Computer
Begin by performing a power cycle to reset your hardware. This involves turning off your computer completely, waiting a few moments, and then turning it back on. Follow these steps:
- Turn off your computer using the power button.
- Wait for about 10 seconds.
- Turn your computer back on.
- As soon as it powers on, turn it off again.
- Repeat this process three times.
- On the fourth power-up, allow the computer to start normally. This should lead you into recovery mode.
Step 2: Access Advanced Recovery Options
Once in recovery mode, you will see a message indicating that your PC did not start correctly. Follow these steps to access advanced options:
- Click on Advanced Options.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Then, click on Advanced Options again.
- Now, choose Startup Settings.
Step 3: Enable Safe Mode
In the Startup Settings menu, you will have the option to enable Safe Mode. This is crucial for diagnosing driver-related issues. To do this:
- Click on the Restart button.
- After your PC restarts, press F4 or 4 on your keyboard to enable Safe Mode.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers
Once in Safe Mode, you need to check your graphics drivers. Here’s how:
- Open the Start menu and type Device Manager, then select it from the results.
- In the Device Manager window, expand the Display Adapters section.
- Right-click on your graphics card and select Uninstall device.
- Confirm the uninstallation and then restart your computer.
Upon restarting, Windows will automatically reinstall the graphics driver. This can often resolve the VIDEO TDR Failure error.
Step 5: Check for Overheating Issues
Overheating can cause your graphics card to malfunction, leading to the VIDEO TDR Failure. Ensure that your system is clean and that the fans are functioning properly. Here are some checks to perform:
- Inspect your computer’s cooling fans and ensure they are free of dust and debris.
- Monitor your system’s temperature using software like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner.
- If the temperature is excessively high, consider improving ventilation or applying new thermal paste to your GPU.
Step 6: Run Hardware Diagnostics
If the problem persists after updating drivers and checking for overheating, you may need to run hardware diagnostics. Many manufacturers provide diagnostic tools that can be accessed during boot-up:
- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI setup (commonly by pressing F2, Del, or Esc during startup).
- Look for a diagnostics menu and run tests on your GPU and other critical components.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
When following these steps, it’s important to be cautious. Many users tend to skip the power cycling step, which is crucial in resolving temporary hardware glitches. If you continue experiencing issues, consider checking the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers or potential hardware failures.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to effectively resolve the VIDEO TDR Failure BSOD error on your Windows machine. Regular updates and maintenance can prevent these issues from reoccurring. If you find that the problem persists even after taking these actions, it may be time to consult a professional technician for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the VIDEO TDR Failure error?
This error is commonly caused by issues with graphics drivers, overheating, or faulty hardware components.
Can I fix this error without professional help?
Yes, by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue on your own.
What if my graphics card is not showing in Device Manager?
If your graphics card is missing from Device Manager, it may indicate a hardware failure, a connection issue, or the need to check BIOS settings.