How to Fix WAIT 2 (0X0000004C) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

by

How to Fix WAIT 2 (0X0000004C) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

The WAIT 2 (0x0000004C) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), also known as a “DRIVER_CORRUPTED_MX” error, is a critical system failure that can occur on Windows 10 and 11. This error typically appears when the operating system detects corruption in a driver or system file, often related to memory management or hardware issues. If your PC suddenly reboots or displays this error, it means Windows encountered an unrecoverable problem and stopped working. Below, well explain what causes this issue and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

What Causes the WAIT 2 (0X0000004C) BSOD?

The WAIT 2 error can occur due to several reasons, including:

  • Corrupted system files or drivers. A damaged or outdated driver, especially those related to hardware (e.g., graphics, storage, or network), can trigger this BSOD.
  • Faulty RAM or hard drive issues. Bad memory modules or a failing hard disk can cause data corruption that leads to system instability.
  • Malware or virus infections. Some malicious software may alter critical system files, leading to BSODs.
  • Overheating or hardware failure. If your CPU or GPU overheats, it can cause random crashes and errors like this one.
  • Windows updates or driver conflicts. A recent update or incompatible driver installation may introduce instability.

How to Fix WAIT 2 (0X0000004C) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

###

Method 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

The first step is to repair corrupted system files using built-in Windows tools. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run the following commands one by one:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow

Let both processes complete (this may take several minutes). Restart your PC afterward.

###

Method 2: Check for Hardware Issues with CHKDSK

If the error is related to disk corruption, run the CHKDSK tool:

chkdsk C: /f /r

(Replace “C:” with your system drive if needed.) This scans for bad sectors and repairs errors. Restart your PC afterward.

###

Method 3: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark (problematic drivers).
3. Right-click the device, choose Update driver, then Search automatically for drivers.
4. If updating doesnt work, uninstall the driver, restart your PC, and let Windows reinstall it.

###

Method 4: Test Your RAM and Hard Drive

Use Windows Memory Diagnostic to check for RAM issues:

  • Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, and hit Enter.
  • Select Restart now and check for problems.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to test RAM.

For hard drive health, use third-party tools like SeaTools (for HDDs) or Samsung Magician (for SSDs).

###

Method 5: Check for Overheating and Hardware Issues

Use tools like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner to monitor CPU/GPU temperatures. If overheating is detected, clean dust from fans, reapply thermal paste (if needed), or check cooling system functionality.

###

Method 6: Perform a Clean Boot and Malware Scan

1. Open Task Manager, go to the Startup tab, and disable all non-Microsoft services.
2. Run a full scan with Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus like Malwarebytes.
3. If the issue persists, check for recent software installations that might conflict (e.g., games, drivers). Uninstall suspicious programs via Settings > Apps > Installed apps.

###

Method 7: Reset Windows or Reinstall

If all else fails, reset your PC (Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC) or perform a clean Windows installation while keeping files. This should resolve deep-seated system corruption.

FAQ About WAIT 2 (0X0000004C) BSOD

  • Is WAIT 2 always caused by hardware failure?
    Not necessarily. While hardware issues (like bad RAM or a failing drive) are common causes, driver corruption or software conflicts can also trigger this error.
  • Will updating Windows fix this error?
    Sometimes, but not always. If the issue stems from a bug in an update, installing the latest patches may help. However, if the problem persists, deeper troubleshooting (like driver updates or hardware checks) is needed.
  • Can I prevent future BSODs like WAIT 2?
    Yes! Regularly update drivers, scan for malware, monitor system health, and avoid overclocking hardware without proper cooling. Tools like Windows Update can also help.
  • What if the BSOD happens during startup?
    Boot into Safe Mode (hold Shift + F8 during startup) to run diagnostics or use a Windows installation USB to repair your system.

If youve tried all these steps and the issue persists, contact Microsoft Support or visit a local repair service for hardware diagnostics. The WAIT 2 (0x0000004C) error is usually fixable with patience and systematic troubleshooting.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Tested on: Windows 10 (22H2) & Windows 11 (23H2)

Leave a Comment