Windows errors

Blue screen: VIDEO_TDR_FAILURE stop code

This blue screen happens when Windows detects that the graphics driver stopped responding and tried to reset it, but the reset itself failed, crashing the system. It almost always points to the graphics driver or GPU.

Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1–2 hours
DIY cost
$0–$30
Pro cost
$100–$250

Symptoms

  • Blue screen specifically names VIDEO_TDR_FAILURE
  • Often happens during gaming, video playback, or graphics-intensive tasks
  • Screen may flicker or briefly go black just before the crash
  • May mention a specific graphics driver file

Likely causes

  • CommonOutdated, corrupted, or unstable graphics driverThis error is very strongly associated with graphics driver problems specifically.
  • CommonOverheating graphics cardA GPU running too hot can hang and trigger a failed recovery attempt.
  • PossibleOverclocked GPU or CPU pushed too farExcessive overclocking is a frequent cause of unstable graphics performance leading to this crash.
  • PossibleFailing graphics card hardwareOn aging or damaged GPUs, this can indicate the card itself is starting to fail.
  • Less commonInsufficient power delivery to the graphics cardA marginal power supply can cause the GPU to become unstable under load.

What to do

  1. Update your graphics driver directly from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel's website rather than through Windows Update, choosing a clean/custom installation if offered.
  2. If you recently updated the graphics driver right before crashes started, try rolling back to the previous version instead.
  3. If you've overclocked your GPU or CPU using any software, revert all settings to default/stock and test again.
  4. Check GPU temperatures under load using a monitoring tool; clean dust from the card's fans and case airflow if temperatures run high.
  5. Increase the driver's TDR (Timeout Detection and Recovery) delay only as a diagnostic test if you're comfortable editing the registry, since a longer timeout can help identify whether it's borderline slowness versus a hard hang; this is not a permanent fix.
  6. Test with a different, less demanding graphics load (like a lighter game or just desktop use) to see if the issue is load-dependent, pointing more toward overheating or power.
  7. If crashes persist with an updated driver, no overclocking, and normal temperatures, the graphics card itself may be failing and should be tested in another system if possible.

Tools and parts

  • Temperature monitoring software
  • Compressed air for dust
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When to call a pro

If updating drivers, removing overclocks, and checking temperatures doesn't stop the crashes, a technician can test whether the graphics card itself has failed.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.