0x00000013 EMPTY_THREAD_REAPER_LIST Blue Screen Fix Guide (Windows 10/11)

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Understanding the 0x00000013 EMPTY_THREAD_REAPER_LIST Blue Screen Error

The EMPTY_THREAD_REAPER_LIST (0x00000013) blue screen error, also known as a Stop error or BSOD, is a critical system issue that can occur on Windows 10 and Windows 11. This error typically appears when the operating system encounters a problem related to thread management, which is part of how Windows handles processes and tasks. The message “Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart” usually accompanies this error, leaving users with a black screen and a restart. While frustrating, this issue is often fixable with the right steps.

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What Does This Error Mean?

The EMPTY_THREAD_REAPER_LIST BSOD indicates that Windows has lost track of certain threads in its thread reaper list. Threads are small units of execution within a process, and the thread reaper is responsible for cleaning up threads when they terminate or become orphaned. When this list becomes empty unexpectedly, it can trigger the blue screen error, causing your system to crash.

This error is relatively rare but can be caused by hardware issues, driver conflicts, or corrupted system files. It may appear during startup, while running applications, or when performing updates, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause without further investigation.

Common Causes of the 0x00000013 Error

The EMPTY_THREAD_REAPER_LIST BSOD can stem from several underlying issues. Here are some of the most common causes:

  • Corrupted system files or registry entries. Over time, system files or registry data may become corrupted due to improper shutdowns, malware, or other factors.
  • Faulty hardware components. Issues with RAM, CPU, or motherboard can lead to thread management problems, especially if the hardware is failing or overheating.
  • Outdated or incompatible drivers. Drivers that are not up-to-date or are designed for an older version of Windows may conflict with system processes.
  • Malware or security software interference. Aggressive malware scans or outdated security software can disrupt normal thread operations, causing the error.
  • Overclocking or BIOS settings issues. If you have overclocked your CPU or modified BIOS settings, it may lead to instability in thread handling.

While these are common causes, the exact reason for this BSOD can vary depending on your system configuration and recent activities. The next section will guide you through troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.

Step-by-Step Fixes for the 0x00000013 EMPTY_THREAD_REAPER_LIST Error

Follow these methods in order, starting with the simplest and moving to more advanced solutions. If the error persists after trying all steps, consider seeking professional help.

Check for Hardware Issues

The first step is to rule out hardware problems, as they are a frequent cause of BSODs like this one. Start by ensuring your system is not overheating:

  1. Open Task Manager using the Ctrl + Shift + Esc shortcut.
  2. Monitor temperatures during regular use to see if they stabilize after cooling down.

Next, test your RAM for errors:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator. You can do this by searching for “Command Prompt” in the Start menu, right-clicking it, and selecting Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command to run a memory diagnostic: 
    mdsched.exe
  3. Choose an option (e.g., “Restart now and check for problems”) and follow the on-screen instructions. This tool will scan your RAM for issues.

If no errors are found, proceed to test your storage drives using the built-in chkdsk tool:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type: 
    chkdsk C: /f /r
  3. Replace “C” with the drive letter of your system disk if needed. Press Enter and confirm any prompts to schedule the scan for the next restart.
  4. Restart your PC and wait for the scan to complete. If errors are found, note them down for further investigation.

If hardware issues are detected (e.g., failing RAM or overheating), address them immediately, such as replacing faulty components or adjusting cooling settings.

Update or Reinstall Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can trigger the EMPTY_THREAD_REAPER_LIST BSOD. Start by updating your drivers:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
  2. Expand categories such as Display adapters, System devices, or Network adapters.
  3. Right-click each driver, select Update driver, and choose Search automatically for drivers. Follow the instructions to install any updates.

If updating doesn’t resolve the issue, try reinstalling problematic drivers:

  1. Open Device Manager as described above.
  2. Expand the category related to the driver (e.g., “Display adapters” for your GPU).
  3. Right-click the driver and select Uninstall device. Check the box for Delete the driver software for this device if available.
  4. Restart your PC. Windows will automatically reinstall the driver during startup.
  5. If the issue persists, consider using a third-party tool like Driver Booster or manually downloading drivers from the manufacturer’s website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).

Pay special attention to GPU drivers, chipset drivers, and storage controllers, as these are often involved in thread-related errors.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can lead to BSODs. Use Windows’ built-in tools to repair them:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type the following command to run a system file scan: 
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. If no issues are found, proceed to the next step.
  4. Type the following commands to repair Windows components using DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management): 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Wait for the process to finish. Restart your PC afterward.

These tools will scan and repair corrupted system files, including those related to thread management. If the error persists, move on to the next method.

Check for Malware or Security Software Issues

Malware or overly aggressive security software can interfere with Windows’ normal operations, leading to BSODs like EMPTY_THREAD_REAPER_LIST. Run a full system scan using your preferred antivirus tool. If you don’t have one installed, use Windows Defender:

  1. Open Windows Security by clicking the shield icon in the taskbar or searching for it in the Start menu.
  2. Go to Virus & threat protection and click Quick scan. Wait for the scan to complete.
  3. If no threats are found, perform a Full scan to ensure deeper inspection.
  4. If malware is detected, follow the recommended actions to quarantine or remove it. Restart your PC afterward.

Additionally, temporarily disable third-party security software (e.g., McAfee, Norton) to see if they are causing conflicts:

  1. Open your security software’s interface and look for options like “T

    Last Updated: December 07, 2025
    Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)

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