How to Fix SPIN LOCK ALREADY OWNED (0X0000000F) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

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How to Fix SPIN LOCK ALREADY OWNED (0X0000000F) BSOD on Windows 10 & 11

The SPIN LOCK ALREADY OWNED (0X0000000F) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a critical error that can suddenly appear while using your Windows PC, often leading to system crashes. This error typically occurs when the operating system detects a conflict in memory access, particularly related to spin locksa synchronization mechanism used by processors to manage shared resources. If you encounter this BSOD, your screen will display an error message with the code 0x0000000F, followed by a restart or shutdown. Below, well explain what causes this issue and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

What Causes the SPIN LOCK ALREADY OWNED (0X0000000F) BSOD?

The SPIN LOCK ALREADY OWNED error usually stems from hardware or software issues, including:

  • Faulty RAM modules: Corrupted or incompatible memory can trigger this error.
  • Overclocked CPU or GPU
  • Driver conflicts, especially from outdated or poorly written drivers (e.g., graphics, chipset, or storage drivers).
  • Corrupted system files due to incomplete updates, malware, or disk errors.
  • Overheating or hardware failure, particularly in the CPU or motherboard.
  • Incompatible or failing hardware, such as a faulty SSD/HDD or conflicting peripherals.

If your system frequently crashes with this error, its essential to diagnose and address the root cause before proceeding with fixes. Below are multiple methods to resolve it.

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How to Fix SPIN LOCK ALREADY OWNED (0X0000000F) BSOD

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Method 1: Run System File Checker and DISM

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

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
    • Press Win + X, then select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
    • If prompted by UAC, click Yes.
  • Run System File Checker (SFC): 
    c:\> sfc /scannow

    Wait for the scan to complete. If issues are found, they will be repaired automatically.

  • Run DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management): 
    c:\> dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

    This may take several minutes. Restart your PC afterward.

Method 2: Check for Driver Updates

Outdated or faulty drivers (especially GPU, chipset, or storage) can cause this error. Update them manually:

  • Open Device Manager:
    • Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
    • Expand categories like Display adapters, System devices, or Storage controllers.
  • Update Drivers:
    • Right-click a device (e.g., your GPU), then select Update driver.
    • Choose Search automatically for drivers. If no updates are found, visit the manufacturers website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download the latest version.
  • Roll Back Drivers (if needed):
    • Right-click a driver in Device Manager, select Properties, then Driver tab.
    • Click Roll Back Driver if available. Restart your PC afterward.
  • Uninstall Problematic Drivers:
    • Right-click the driver, select Uninstall device, then check Delete the driver software for this device.
    • Restart your PC to reinstall drivers automatically.

Method 3: Test and Replace RAM

Faulty RAM is a common cause of spin lock errors. Test it using Windows Memory Diagnostic:

  • Open Windows Memory Diagnostic: 
    c:\> mdsched.exe

    Select Restart now and check for problems (recommended), or run the tool later.

  • Check Results:
    • After reboot, your PC will test RAM. If errors are found, note the faulty module(s).
    • Replace the problematic RAM stick or test each one individually to isolate the issue.

Method 4: Check for Overheating and Hardware Issues

Overheating can cause instability. Monitor your CPU/GPU temperatures:

  • Use HWMonitor or Core Temp:
    • Download HWMonitor or install Core Temp from the Microsoft Store.
    • Check CPU/GPU temperatures during stress tests (e.g., using OCCT).
  • Clean Dust and Reapply Thermal Paste:
    • If overheating is detected, power off your PC, clean dust from fans/heatsinks, and reapply thermal paste if needed.
  • Check BIOS/UEFI Settings:
    • Enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing Del, F2, or Esc during boot).
    • Reset BIOS to default settings and disable overclocking if enabled.

Method 5: Run CHKDSK for Disk Errors

Corrupted storage can trigger this error. Scan your disk for errors:

c:\> chkdsk C: /f /r

Replace C: with the correct drive letter if needed. This may require a restart.

Method 6: Test Hardware Components

If the issue persists, test other hardware:

  • Test Your SSD/HDD:
    • Use manufacturer tools (e.g., SeaTools for Seagate) or third-party software like CrystalDiskInfo.
  • Reseat or Replace Faulty Hardware:
    • Open your PC and reseat RAM, GPU, or storage drives. If the issue persists, replace faulty components.

Method 7: Perform a Clean Windows Install (Last Resort)

If all else fails, reinstall Windows while keeping files:

  • Back Up Data: Use File Explorer or cloud storage to save important files.
  • Create Installation Media: Download the Windows 10/11 Media Creation Tool.
  • Install Windows:
    • Boot from USB, select Repair your computer, then Troubleshoot > Reset this PC > Keep my files.

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FAQ About SPIN LOCK ALREADY OWNED (0X0000000F)

Q: Will a simple restart fix this error?

A: No. A restart may temporarily hide the issue, but it will reappear if the underlying cause (e.g., faulty RAM or drivers) isnt addressed.

Q: Can I ignore this BSOD and continue using my PC?

A: No. This error indicates a serious hardware or software problem that can corrupt data or damage your system over time. Fix it immediately to prevent further issues.

Q: Is this error related to malware?

A: Unlikely, but run a scan with Windows Defender if you suspect malware. This error is typically hardware or driver-related.

Q: Will updating BIOS fix it?

A: Updating BIOS can help if the issue stems from firmware bugs, but only do this if your motherboard manufacturer provides a stable update and youre comfortable with the process.

Q: How often does this error occur on Windows 10 vs. 11?

A: The error is rare but can appear in both versions. Windows 11 may have fewer driver-related issues due to stricter compatibility checks, but hardware failures remain a common cause.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SPIN LOCK ALREADY OWNED (0X0000000F) BSOD and stabilize your system. If the problem persists after trying all methods, consult a professional technician or Microsoft Support for further diagnosis.

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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

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