Computer is stuck in Preparing Automatic Repair mode and will not load the desktop

[Jedavon]

   When I turn on my computer, the screen message says: Preparing Automatic Repair:....and the desktop will not load.  How do I exit this mode and load the desktop ?

[zoey7886]

@Jedavon, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding tuck in "Preparing Automatic Repair" – HP Laptop Won't Load Desktop! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.  

I know how frustrating it is to be greeted by “Preparing Automatic Repair...” instead of your desktop — like your PC’s stuck in a loop and just won’t wake up properly.

Let’s try a quick fix that often helps:

Hard Reset – Hold down the power button until the laptop shuts off. Disconnect all external devices (USBs, printers, etc.), unplug the charger, and remove the battery (if removable). Wait for 1–2 minutes. Then, plug only the charger back in and power it on.

Enter Recovery Mode – As soon as you turn it back on, press F11 repeatedly until you see the “Choose an option” screen.

Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.

If that doesn't work, try System Restore (if restore points are available).

If the system still refuses to cooperate, let me know—we might try booting into Safe Mode or using recovery media next.  

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards, 

[Jedavon]

Thank you for the suggested solutions...BUT...I have tried what you directed me to do ...many times.....and the computer goes black and...goes back to the "Preparing Automatic Repair " mode....

   I never get any other screen...even when pressing F-11 or ESC....   What else can I do.?

   Thank your  for any help you can suggest...

[Jedavon]

...Team, 

    I follow your suggestions...but I never get the roubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair...screen.

Nothing has changed...What else can I do..?   I also wanted to contact HP online to open a ticket ...but I cannot find a SERIAL Number on my computer...

   I have an HP Pavillion

AMD QuaD-Core A10- 8700 P APU

8GB Memory

1 TB  Hard Drive

17.3 screen

    Can you please help me get out of the "Preparing Automatic Repair:" mode ?

Thank you !!!

[zoey7886]

@Jedavon, Thank you for hanging in there — I know it’s incredibly frustrating to feel stuck in that endless “Preparing Automatic Repair” screen, especially when nothing seems to respond.

Since even F11 or ESC aren’t taking you to recovery, it sounds like the system’s boot files might be damaged beyond what automatic repair can handle.

Here’s what you can try next:

1. Force Power Cycle Again (with care):
Hold the power button until it shuts down. Unplug everything, including the charger. If the battery is removable, take it out. Wait a minute or two. Now plug in only the charger and press ESC repeatedly right after turning it on.
Still no response? Move to step 2.

2. Create a Windows Recovery USB:
If you have access to another PC, download the Windows Media Creation Tool.
Use it to create a bootable USB drive (at least 8GB).

Then plug it into your stuck HP, turn it on, and press ESC or F9 to select the USB as a boot device.
Once it loads, go to Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Advanced options.

You can try Startup Repair again or System Restore from here.

If this still doesn’t work, let me know — we may need to reinstall Windows

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards,