Solved: 0x0000000D MUTEX_LEVEL_NUMBER_VIOLATION BSOD Crash on Windows 10/11

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Short Answer

The MUTEX_LEVEL_NUMBER_VIOLATION (0x0000000D) BSOD error occurs when Windows detects an issue with a mutex, which is a synchronization object used by processes and threads. This error can lead to system instability or crashes, often during hardware interactions, driver updates, or software installations. While it’s not the most common BSOD, it can be frustrating if you’re unsure how to resolve it.

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What Is the MUTEX_LEVEL_NUMBER_VIOLATION BSOD?

The MUTEX_LEVEL_NUMBER_VIOLATION BSOD is a critical system error that appears when Windows encounters a problem with mutex-level operations. A mutex (short for “mutual exclusion”) is a mechanism that prevents multiple threads or processes from accessing the same resource simultaneously, ensuring data integrity and system stability.

When this error occurs, your screen may flash blue with an on-screen message like:

Your PC ran into a problem and needs to restart. We'll collect some error info then restart for you. (0x0000000D) MUTEX_LEVEL_NUMBER_VIOLATION

Common Causes of the Error

The MUTEX_LEVEL_NUMBER_VIOLATION BSOD can be triggered by various factors, including:

  • Corrupted or outdated device drivers, particularly those related to hardware components like graphics cards, network adapters, or storage devices.
  • Faulty or incompatible system software, such as antivirus programs, disk utilities, or other third-party applications.
  • Hardware issues, including faulty RAM modules, overheating CPUs, or failing hard drives.
  • Windows system file corruption due to incomplete updates, malware activity, or abrupt shutdowns.
  • Conflicts between multiple processes trying to access the same resource simultaneously.

How to Fix MUTEX_LEVEL_NUMBER_VIOLATION BSOD on Windows 10/11

Here are several methods to troubleshoot and resolve this issue, listed in order of complexity. Start with the simplest steps first and proceed if needed.

Method 1: Restart Your PC and Check for Updates

A simple restart can sometimes clear temporary issues causing the BSOD. After rebooting, check for Windows updates:

  1. Press the Start button, then go to Settings > Update & Security.
  2. Click “Check for updates” and wait for Windows to scan.
  3. If updates are available, install them and restart your PC again.

Method 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can trigger this error. Use the built-in tools to repair them:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator by searching for “cmd,” right-clicking it, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete (this may take several minutes). If no issues are found, proceed to DISM.
  4. In Command Prompt, type these commands one by one and press Enter after each:
    5. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Method 3: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a frequent cause of BSODs. Follow these steps to update or reinstall them:

  1. Press Windows + X and select “Device Manager.”
  2. Look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark (problematic hardware) or right-click the Start button and choose “Update device drivers” if no issues are visible.
  3. If you see problematic devices, expand their category (e.g., Display adapters, Network adapters).
  4. Right-click each device and select “Update driver.” Choose “Search automatically for drivers” and follow the on-screen instructions.
  5. If updating doesn’t resolve the issue, try reinstalling the driver:

    • Right-click the problematic device (e.g., your graphics card) and select “Uninstall device.”
    • Check the box for “Delete the driver software for this device” if available.
    • Restart your PC, then right-click the same device in Device Manager and choose “Update driver” again.
  6. Pay special attention to graphics card drivers (e.g., NVIDIA or AMD), as they often cause this error. If you’re unsure which driver is causing the issue, use a tool like NVIDIA GeForce Experience or AMD Adrenalin to update them.
  7. Restart your PC after making changes.

Method 4: Test Your RAM for Errors

Faulty RAM can lead to system instability and BSODs. Run a memory diagnostic test:

  1. Press Windows + R, type “mdsched.exe,” and press Enter.
  2. Select the appropriate option (e.g., “Restart now and check for problems” or schedule it later).
  3. Follow the instructions to complete the test. If errors are found, replace your RAM modules.

Method 5: Check Your Hard Drive for Corruption

If your hard drive is failing, it can cause this error. Run a disk check:

  1. Open File Explorer (Windows + E).
  2. Right-click the drive you want to check (usually C:) and select “Properties.”
  3. Go to the “Tools” tab, then click “Check” under Error checking.
  4. Follow the prompts to scan and repair the drive. If Windows finds errors, it will attempt to fix them automatically.
  5. For a more thorough check, open Command Prompt as Administrator and type:
    6. chkdsk C: /f /r
  6. Press Enter, then confirm the action when prompted. This requires a restart to complete.

Method 6: Disable or Update Antivirus Software

Some antivirus programs can interfere with system operations and cause BSODs. Temporarily disable your antivirus:

  1. Open your antivirus software (e.g., Windows Defender, McAfee, Norton).
  2. Look for options like “Disable real-time protection” or “Turn off temporarily.”
  3. Set the disable period to at least 1 hour and proceed with normal tasks.
  4. If the BSOD doesn’t reappear during this time, your antivirus may be the cause. Update it or switch to a different one if necessary.

Method 7: Check for Overheating Issues

Overheating can lead to system instability and BSODs. Monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures:

  1. Download a temperature-monitoring tool like HWMonitor or use built-in tools if available.
  2. Run the tool to check real-time temperatures of your CPU, GPU, and other components.
    • Clean dust from fans and heatsinks using compressed air or a soft brush.
    • Reapply thermal paste if needed (follow manufacturer guidelines).
    • Check that your PC’s ventilation is unobstructed.
  3. Restart your PC after addressing cooling issues.

Method 8: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Software Conflicts

A clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers and services, helping identify if third-party software is causing the issue:

  1. Press Windows + R, type “msconfig,” and press Enter.
  2. Go to the “Services” tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services

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

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