Windows SFC Error? Avoid System Failure with These Fixes 2025

If you’ve encountered the “Windows SFC Error” error while trying to run the SFC (System File Checker) tool, you’re not alone. The Windows SFC Error prevents Windows from scanning and repairing critical system files, leading to potential instability and performance problems. Fortunately, there are several effective solutions to resolve the Windows SFC Error and restore your system’s functionality.

Causes of “Windows SFC Error”

Before diving into the fixes, let’s explore the common causes behind the Windows SFC Error:

• Corrupt System Files – If essential system files are missing or damaged, SFC might fail to run.
• Insufficient Permissions – The SFC tool requires admin-level access to modify system files.
• Hard Drive Errors – Bad sectors or file system corruption can interfere with the scan.
• System Interference – Background processes might block the operation.
• Windows Installation Issues – Incomplete updates or failed installations can cause problems.

Now, let’s go step by step to fix the Windows SFC Error.

Solution 1: Run SFC in Safe Mode

Running SFC in Safe Mode ensures that background processes don’t interfere with the Windows SFC Error scan.

Steps to Run SFC in Safe Mode:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. In the Boot tab, check Safe boot and select Minimal.
3. Click Apply > OK, then restart your PC.
4. Once in Safe Mode, open Command Prompt as Administrator and enter:sfc /scannow
5. Wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC normally.

✅ If the Windows SFC Error is resolved, great! If not, move to the next method.

For more details on the SFC command, visit Microsoft’s official documentation here.

Solution 2: Check for Hard Drive Errors Using CHKDSK

If your hard drive has bad sectors, the Windows SFC Error may occur. Running CHKDSK will help fix these errors.

Steps to Run CHKDSK:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type the following command and hit Enter:chkdsk C: /f /r /x
   • /f – Fixes errors
   • /r – Locates bad sectors
   • /x – Unmounts the drive before scanning
3. If prompted, type Y and restart your PC.
4. After CHKDSK completes, rerun SFC /scannow.

✅ If the Windows SFC Error persists, try the next method.

Solution 3: Use DISM to Repair Windows Image

If SFC fails due to deeper system corruption, DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) can help repair Windows before running SFC again.

Steps to Run DISM:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run these commands one by one:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
3. Restart your PC and run SFC /scannow again.

✅ If DISM fixes system corruption, the Windows SFC Error should now be resolved.

Solution 4: Modify Security Permissions

A lack of permissions can prevent SFC from accessing system files and result in the Windows SFC Error. Manually granting the required permissions may fix this.

Steps to Fix Permissions:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Enter the following command:ICACLS C:\Windows\winsxs /grant administrators:F
3. Restart your PC and try SFC /scannow again.

✅ If the Windows SFC Error persists, proceed to the next method.

Solution 5: Perform a System Restore

If the Windows SFC Error appeared after a recent update or system change, rolling back your system might help.

How to Restore Windows:

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and press Enter.
2. Select a Restore Point from before the Windows SFC Error occurred.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restoration.
4. Restart your PC and retry SFC /scannow.

✅ If a recent change caused the Windows SFC Error, this should fix it.

Solution 6: Reset or Reinstall Windows

If none of the above methods work, resetting or reinstalling Windows is your last resort to fix the Windows SFC Error.

How to Reset Windows While Keeping Files:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security > Recovery.
3. Under Reset this PC, click Get Started.
4. Select Keep My Files and follow the instructions.

✅ This will reinstall Windows while keeping your personal files intact.

Explore More:

• Black Screen Issues: Caused by driver failures, corrupt system files, or hardware problems.
• Slow Performance: Often due to high disk usage, outdated drivers, or background apps.
• Quick Fixes: Update drivers, disable startup apps, and use performance troubleshooting tools.

Conclusion

The “Windows SFC Error” can prevent SFC from scanning and repairing system files, but these solutions should help you fix it.

Quick Recap:

✔ Run SFC in Safe Mode to avoid system interference
✔ Use CHKDSK to repair hard drive errors
✔ Run DISM to restore Windows image
✔ Grant Permissions to allow SFC to function
✔ Try a System Restore if the issue started recently
✔ Reset Windows if all else fails

💬 Still need help? Let me know which solution worked for you!