KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED (0x1E)
What is this error?
A kernel-mode program generated an exception which the error handler did not catch. Usually caused by a driver or service accessing invalid memory.
Common causes
- buggy kernel driver
- hardware failure
- corrupted system files
- incompatible software
How to fix it
- Check minidump for faulting module
- update drivers
- run sfc /scannow
- check hardware
Too many steps? Crashless can diagnose this automatically — checks your drivers, temps, VRAM, and 400+ known error patterns.
Get free AI diagnosis Detailed analysis
Bug check 0x0000001E (KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED) occurs when a kernel-mode program generates an exception that the error handler doesn't catch. The second parameter of the bug check identifies the address where the exception occurred. The minidump will show the faulting module. Common causes: outdated or buggy drivers (especially GPU drivers from NVIDIA nvlddmkm.sys or AMD atikmpag.sys), corrupted system files, hardware failures. Fixes:
- Identify the faulting driver from the minidump,
- Update or reinstall the driver,
- Run 'sfc /scannow' and 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth',
- Test RAM with memtest86,
- Check disk health with 'chkdsk /r'.
When to seek help
If this error keeps happening after trying the fixes above, it may point to a deeper hardware or system issue. Consider professional help if:
- The crash occurs across multiple games or applications
- You see the same error after a clean Windows install
- Your PC is less than a year old (could be a warranty issue)
- You smell burning or hear unusual sounds from your PC
Or let Crashless do the deep analysis for you -- our AI checks drivers, temps, event logs, and 400+ known patterns automatically.
Chat with AI about KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED (0x1E)
Describe your setup and get a personalized diagnosis in seconds. Free, no signup needed.
Get AI diagnosis Chat with AI about this error
Describe your setup and what you were doing when the crash happened. Our AI checks against 400+ known crash patterns — free, no download needed.
Let Crashless handle it
The desktop app scans your drivers, temps, VRAM, event logs, and 400+ known patterns — then walks you through the fix step by step.
