BIOS - Clearing Pending Image issue

[BoSox15]

Quick backstory, I have been having issues getting the latest Windows version to update on my laptop, as well as having issues using a second monitor connected via HDMI crashing my system.  Posted to Microsoft forums and they suggested updating my BIOS.

I used the HP assistant and downloaded and installed the most recent BIOS updates.  Wasn't watching the update so I don't know exactly where it is in the process but when I looked back my screen was black and the following text would flash (every 30 seconds or so):

”The System BIOS Pending Image is being cleared.

Do not shutdown or remove power from your computer during the clear. The clear will take a few minutes to complete.

For more information, please visit: www.hp.com/go/techcenter/startup

Clearing Pending Image "

It has been in this state for > one hour.  

I have searched the forums and found a response that said to shut off the machine and then turn it on while holding the windows key + B but this did nothing.  That screen continues to flash.

Any suggestions?

[Max3Aj · Accepted solution]

@BoSox15, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
If your HP 14-dq0000 Laptop is stuck during the BIOS update process at the "Clearing Pending Image" phase, it can be concerning. This situation typically indicates that the BIOS flash was interrupted or failed during verification. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you recover your laptop safely:

The message "The System BIOS Pending Image is being cleared..." means the system is attempting to clear a BIOS update that didn’t complete properly. If it has been stuck for over an hour, intervention is necessary.

✅ Step-by-Step Recovery Options

🔌 1. Disconnect Everything

• Unplug the AC adapter.
• Remove any USB devices (flash drives, HDMI, peripherals).
• If possible, disconnect the battery (if it's not internal).

🧠 2. Force Shutdown + Reset

1. Hold down the power button for 15 seconds until everything powers off.
2. Let it sit powered off for 30 seconds.
3. Plug the power adapter back in (without any USB devices connected).

🔄 3. Try a BIOS Recovery Using Windows + B

1. With the laptop off, hold down the Windows key + B.
2. While holding those keys, press and hold the Power button for 2–3 seconds.
3. Release the Power button but keep holding Windows + B for another 5 seconds, then release all keys.
4. Wait for a BIOS recovery screen or beep. If successful, you’ll see a recovery message, and it will attempt to reload the BIOS.

⚠️ If Windows + B doesn't work, try Windows + V instead, as some HP models use that combination.

🧃 4. Drain Residual Power

If the recovery key combinations fail:

1. Disconnect the AC adapter and any peripherals.
2. Hold down the power button for a full minute to drain capacitors.
3. Wait 2 more minutes, plug back in, and try powering on again.

🛠️ 5. Create a BIOS Recovery USB Drive (if needed)

If recovery doesn’t trigger and the "Clearing Pending Image" message still loops:Prepare a BIOS Recovery USB on Another PC:

1. Go to HP’s Software and Drivers page for the HP 14-dq0000.
2. Download the latest BIOS update file (usually named spxxxxx.exe).
3. Run the file on another Windows PC and choose "Create Recovery USB".
4. Insert a USB drive (at least 1GB) and let the tool create a bootable BIOS recovery drive.

Use the Recovery USB on Your Laptop:

1. Insert the USB into your HP 14-dq0000.
2. Hold Windows + B (or V), then press Power.
3. Wait for the BIOS recovery to start from the USB.

💡 If Nothing Works

If the BIOS is corrupted beyond self-repair, the system board may require assistance from HP authorized service center, Kindly follow this link to locate the nearest HP service center: https://support.hp.com/us-en/help/service-center 
(Select the country from the dropdown menu and enter the city name or pincode) . 
However, the recovery methods above often resolve the issue.

🔁 Once You’re Back Up

Once the BIOS is restored:

• Reinstall HP Support Assistant.
• Reinstall the latest graphics drivers (to address any HDMI issues).
• Delay any Windows updates until BIOS and driver updates are confirmed stable.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support