Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Windows Stop Code 0x00000039

0x00000039 Error: Windows faces a critical paging error in kernel mode

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What is 0x00000039 Error?


The Windows Stop Code 0x00000039, labeled SYSTEM_EXIT_OWNED_MUTEX, is a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) that signals an error in the kernel’s internal management of synchronization objects—specifically, a thread attempted to exit while still owning a mutex (mutual exclusion object). This usually occurs due to buggy drivers, faulty system services, or kernel-level software mishandling threading, locking, or synchronization logic. It's a rare error, typically triggered during boot or under system stress caused by incompatible drivers or memory issues.

Causes

  • Faulty or Incompatible Drivers: Drivers that mismanage system mutexes or synchronization can trigger this BSOD.
  • Kernel-Mode Antivirus or Monitoring Tools: Security tools that operate at kernel level may interfere with OS thread handling or mutex objects.
  • Race Conditions in System Services: A poorly timed exit or shutdown of threads in services or drivers may leave the system in an unstable state.
  • Defective Memory (RAM): Memory corruption can cause mishandling of kernel synchronization primitives.
  • Corrupt System Files: Damaged core Windows components can misbehave during thread exit routines.
  • Third-Party Low-Level Utilities: Tools like debuggers, virtual machines, or performance optimizers can misuse mutexes in kernel space.

Resolution Steps




1. Update or Roll Back Recently Installed Drivers

  • Press Win + X → Device Manager.
  • Look for recently updated drivers, especially for hardware-level components like graphics, storage, or network devices.
  • Right-click the device → Update Driver, or choose Roll Back Driver if available.
  • Reboot the PC to check if the issue is resolved.

2. Remove Problematic Third-Party Software

  • Go to Control Panel → Programs and Features.
  • Uninstall tools like:
  • Kernel-mode antivirus
  • Performance optimizers
  • System debuggers
  • Restart your PC after uninstallation.

3. Run System File Checker and DISM

Open Command Prompt as Administrator, then enter

sfc /scannow

After completion, run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

  • These commands repair corrupted system files that might affect kernel thread management.

4. Check and Repair Memory Issues

  • Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, hit Enter.
  • Choose Restart now and check for problems.
  • Faulty RAM can cause mishandling of synchronization primitives and lead to this BSOD.

5. Perform Clean Boot

  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, press Enter.
  • Under Services, check Hide all Microsoft services → Click Disable all.
  • Go to Startup → Open Task Manager → Disable all startup items.
  • Restart the system to test for third-party software conflicts.

6. Update BIOS and Chipset Drivers

  • Visit your motherboard/computer manufacturer's website.
  • Download and install the latest:
  • BIOS firmware
  • Chipset drivers
  • This ensures proper handling of kernel operations and synchronization processes.

7. Use System Restore

  • If the issue started after a recent change:
  • Go to Control Panel → Recovery → Open System Restore.
  • Choose a restore point from before the problem started.
  • Complete the restoration process to revert to a stable system state.

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