How to Fix BIOS Keeps Looping or Crashing

hazantech34 July 04, 2025



Table of Contents


What Is a BIOS Loop or BIOS Crash?


Before we jump into the fixes, let’s clarify what we mean by a BIOS loop or BIOS crash.

A BIOS loop occurs when your PC keeps restarting and never proceeds past the BIOS screen. You may see the manufacturer's logo, or the system might keep trying to enter BIOS mode over and over again.

A BIOS crash, on the other hand, can happen if the firmware gets corrupted or the system encounters a critical error during the POST (Power-On Self-Test) process. When this happens, your screen may freeze, show error messages, or go completely black.


Common Signs of a BIOS Loop or Crash


  • Continuous restarts before the Windows logo
  • Stuck on the manufacturer logo screen
  • Error messages like “BIOS has encountered an error”
  • Black screen with blinking cursor
  • No access to BIOS setup menu
  • Beeping sounds from the motherboard


What Causes BIOS to Loop or Crash?


There are several reasons why your BIOS might be stuck in a loop or crashing unexpectedly. Here are the most common ones:

  1. Corrupted BIOS Update
  2. Faulty RAM or Hardware
  3. Loose Cables or Improper Connections
  4. Overclocking Failures
  5. CMOS Battery Failure
  6. Incompatible or Faulty Hardware
  7. Power Surges or Sudden Shutdowns
  8. Motherboard Issues
  9. Faulty Boot Devices

Let’s now explore the solutions step-by-step, starting from the simplest.


Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix BIOS Loop or Crash



Step 1: Perform a Full Power Cycle


  1. Shut down the computer completely.
  2. Disconnect the power cable and remove the battery (for laptops).
  3. Hold the power button for 30 seconds.
  4. Reconnect everything and power it back on.

This simple trick often resolves BIOS loops caused by temporary system confusion.


Step 2: Reset BIOS Settings (Clear CMOS)


Option A: Using CMOS Jumper


  1. Turn off and unplug the PC.
  2. Locate the CMOS jumper on the motherboard (usually labeled CLEAR, CLR_CMOS, or JBAT).
  3. Move the jumper from position 1–2 to 2–3 for 10 seconds.
  4. Return the jumper to the original position.
  5. Power on the system.


Option B: Removing the CMOS Battery


  1. Power off the system and unplug everything.
  2. Open the case and locate the silver coin battery.
  3. Carefully remove it for 5–10 minutes.
  4. Reinsert the battery and restart the PC.


Step 3: Re-seat RAM and Internal Components


  1. Power off the system.
  2. Open the case and carefully remove the RAM, graphics card, and other expansion cards.
  3. Reinsert them securely.
  4. Make sure all cables are properly connected.


Step 4: Disconnect All Peripherals


  1. Unplug everything except the monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
  2. Try booting into BIOS again.
  3. If it works, plug devices back in one at a time to identify the culprit.


Step 5: Boot from BIOS Recovery Tool


  • Dell: Ctrl + Esc
  • HP: Windows Key + B (hold while powering on)
  • ASUS: BIOS Flashback via USB port
  • MSI/Gigabyte: Check the manual for recovery instructions


Step 6: Reflash the BIOS


  1. Download the latest BIOS version from your manufacturer’s website using another computer.
  2. Format a USB drive to FAT32.
  3. Place the BIOS file on the root of the drive.
  4. Insert the USB into the affected PC and enter BIOS or BIOS recovery mode.
  5. Use the update tool (e.g., ASUS EZ Flash, MSI M-Flash) to reflash the BIOS.

Caution: Interrupting this process can permanently damage the motherboard.


Step 7: Test with Minimum Configuration


  • One stick of RAM
  • CPU
  • Motherboard
  • Power Supply
  • No GPU (if integrated graphics are available)
  • No storage drives


Step 8: Replace CMOS Battery


  1. Remove the old battery (CR2032 is the most common).
  2. Replace it with a new one.
  3. Reset BIOS to default settings after replacement.


Step 9: Check for Overclocking Failures


  1. Clear the CMOS as described above.
  2. Enter BIOS and set everything to Auto or Default.
  3. Save and restart.


Step 10: Inspect the Motherboard


  • Burn marks or unusual smells
  • Swollen or leaking capacitors
  • No response even with new power supply


Advanced Tip: Use a POST Code Reader


If your system has a POST diagnostic display or speaker, use it to understand what part of the hardware is failing. You’ll hear a series of beeps or see hexadecimal codes. Refer to your motherboard’s manual to decode them.


Prevention Tips: How to Avoid BIOS Issues in the Future



1. Avoid Unnecessary BIOS Updates


Only update your BIOS if it fixes a known issue or adds support for new hardware.


2. Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)


A power surge or blackout during a BIOS update can brick your motherboard. A UPS can save you from disaster.


3. Don’t Overclock Without Research


If you must overclock, make small changes and stress-test thoroughly.


4. Keep Components Clean


Dust can cause shorts, overheating, and unstable connections. Clean your PC every 3–6 months.


5. Backup Your Settings


Many BIOS interfaces let you save profiles to a USB. If you tweak settings often, this is a lifesaver.


Final Thoughts


A BIOS loop or crash can feel like a nightmare, especially when your PC becomes unresponsive. But in most cases, it’s fixable with a few methodical steps. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, understanding how your BIOS works can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.

Remember:

  • Start simple (power cycle, clear CMOS).
  • Move to hardware checks and BIOS recovery.
  • Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if the motherboard is at fault.


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