To check for corrupt or problem drivers in Windows 10, open Device Manager and look for devices with a yellow warning icon; double-click one to see its error code under Device status. Then check Reliability Monitor for crash reports that name a driver, and run sfc /scannow to repair damaged system files. To fix a bad driver, roll it back, update it from the PC maker, or uninstall and reinstall it.
Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027.
Quick Answer
Device Manager > look for yellow ⚠ icons > Properties > Device status. Fix with Roll Back Driver, Update driver, or Uninstall device and restart.
Step 1: Look in Device Manager
- Right-click Start and choose Device Manager.
- Look for a yellow warning triangle or a down arrow (disabled) on any device. Categories with problems open automatically.
- Double-click the device and read Device status on the General tab. Common codes include 10 (can’t start), 28 (no driver) and 43 (device reported problems).
Step 2: Check Crash History
- Reliability Monitor: Search Start for “reliability history.” Red X entries for Windows failures often name the driver file (.sys).
- Event Viewer: Windows Logs > System, filtered by Error, shows driver load failures.
- List drivers: Run driverquery /v in Command Prompt for installed drivers and their state.
Step 3: Repair System Files
Damaged system files can break drivers too. In an elevated Command Prompt, sfc /scannow scans and replaces bad files. When it reports errors it couldn’t fix, DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth repairs the Windows image so a second sfc pass can finish the job.
Fix a Problem Driver
| Situation | Fix |
|---|---|
| Problems started after an update | Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver |
| Old or generic driver | Download the latest from the PC or device maker |
| Driver seems damaged | Uninstall device (check Delete the driver software if offered), restart |
| Device disconnected (Code 45) | See fixing Code 45 |
To test a microphone, hear yourself through your mic.
If audio drivers were the issue, see setting up speakers.
Troubleshooting
- Blue screens name a driver: Boot into Safe Mode and remove or roll back that driver.
- Driver Verifier: An advanced tool that stress-tests drivers and can cause crashes on purpose; only use it if you know how to turn it off from Safe Mode.
- Avoid “driver updater” apps: Many bundle unwanted software. Use Windows Update and the maker’s website.
- Looking for all driver checks? See how to check drivers on Windows 10.
Related: How to fix corrupted system files in Windows 10.
Related: How to check for corrupted drivers in Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a corrupt driver cause crashes?
Yes. Bad drivers are a common cause of blue screens and devices that stop working.
Does Windows update drivers automatically?
Often. Check Windows Update > View optional updates for more driver updates.
Summary
- Check Device Manager for warnings.
- Read the device status code.
- Check Reliability Monitor and run sfc.
- Roll back, update, or reinstall the driver.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.