Why Does “AMD Software Detected That a Driver Timeout Has Occurred” Keep Happening? Simple Fixes That Work

How Can You Stop AMD Driver Timeout Errors for Good? Discover Practical Solutions That Bring Relief

When you see “AMD software detected that a driver timeout has occurred,” your computer might freeze, flicker, or crash. This error pops up for many reasons. Good news: You can fix most driver timeouts with clear steps—no need to feel upset or stuck.

What Causes Driver Timeout?

• Old or broken graphics drivers
• Conflicts with other programs (like antivirus or GPU tools)
• Problems with Windows features like MPO
• Not enough recovery time in Windows for your graphics card
• Power supply or cable troubles
• Settings pushing the graphics card too hard

8 Easy Steps to Fix AMD Driver Timeout

Solution 1: Update the Graphics Driver

1. Outdated or broken drivers often cause timeouts.
2. Remove your current graphics driver.
3. Download and install the latest driver from AMD’s official website.
4. Restart your PC after installation.

Solution 2: Remove Conflicting Software

1. Apps like Bitdefender, MSI Afterburner, or RGB lighting tools can trip up AMD drivers.
2. Open “Programs and Features,” find and remove these apps.
3. Restart your computer.

Solution 3: Turn Off AMD Crash Defender Service

Sometimes, this built-in service causes issues.

1. Press Win + R, type “msconfig,” and hit Enter.
2. Go to Services, uncheck “AMD Crash Defender Service.”
3. Apply changes and restart.

Solution 4: Disable MPO (Multiplane Overlay)

This Windows feature is meant to boost graphics but may cause problems.

1. Press Win + R, type “regedit,” and open the Registry Editor.
2. Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\Dwm
3. Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named OverlayTestMode and set it to 5.
4. Restart your PC.

Solution 5: Increase TDR (Timeout Detection & Recovery) Delay

This gives your graphics card more time to recover.

1. Open Registry Editor.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers
3. Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named TdrDelay and set to 8 (or 10).
4. Restart computer so it takes effect.

Solution 6: Disable Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling

This moves some workload from your main chip to your graphics card but sometimes causes trouble.

1. Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics Settings.
2. Toggle off Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling.
3. Restart your PC.

Solution 7: Do a Clean Boot

Stops extra programs or services from causing problems.

1. Search for “msconfig,” press Enter.
2. On the Services tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services”; then click “Disable all.”
3. Open Task Manager from the Startup tab.
4. Turn off any extra startup apps you don’t need.
5. Restart and test if the error is gone, then narrow down which app causes the issue by turning services back on half at a time.

Solution 8: Check Hardware Stability

• Power issues or cable problems can also lead to driver timeouts.
• Make sure all power cables to your graphics card are snug.
• Don’t use split or daisy-chained cables if possible.
• Check for bent or frayed wires.
• Make sure your power supply can handle your system.
• If you have an overclocked graphics card, use tools like AMD Adrenalin or MSI Afterburner to slightly lower voltage or clock speed.
• Test your changes with games or stress tests.

Additional Tips

• Boost performance by switching your PC’s power settings to High Performance.
• Increase your computer’s virtual memory if resources run low.
• If new drivers make problems worse, try installing an older version that worked before.
• Remove dust from inside your computer and keep fans and vents clear for better cooling.

You can fix AMD driver timeout errors with simple steps—update drivers, check for problem apps, and adjust a few settings. Most fixes need just a little patience. Keeping your software updated and your PC clean from clutter keeps problems from coming back. If the issue stays, it’s a good idea to check for hardware problems or ask an expert to take a closer look.