How to Fix "CPU Over Temperature Error" – Causes & Solutions
If you’ve encountered the dreaded "CPU Over Temperature Error" when booting your PC, it’s a warning that your processor is overheating. Ignoring this error can lead to system instability, crashes, or even hardware damage.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔️ What causes the CPU Over Temperature Error?
✔️ How to diagnose overheating issues?
✔️ Step-by-step solutions to fix it.
What Causes the CPU Over Temperature Error?
This error typically appears due to excessive CPU heat, which can be caused by:
- ❄️ Poor Cooling – A malfunctioning fan or inadequate cooling system.
- 🛑 Blocked Airflow – Dust buildup inside the case blocking ventilation.
- 🏎 Overclocking – Pushing your CPU beyond its limits without proper cooling.
- 🏠 High Ambient Temperature – Hot room conditions affecting system cooling.
- 🧴 Dried or Improper Thermal Paste – Poor heat transfer from CPU to cooler.
- 🔧 Faulty or Loose Heatsink – Improper installation of the CPU cooler.
How to Fix CPU Over Temperature Error
1. Check Your CPU Cooler
- Ensure the CPU fan is running properly.
- If you have a liquid cooling system, check for leaks or pump failure.
- Try reinstalling the cooler to ensure it has proper contact with the CPU.
2. Clean Your PC and Improve Airflow
- Remove dust from CPU fans, case fans, and vents using compressed air.
- Ensure your PC case has proper ventilation and no obstructions.
- Consider adding extra case fans for better airflow.
3. Replace or Reapply Thermal Paste
- If thermal paste is old or dried out, clean the CPU and cooler with isopropyl alcohol.
- Apply a small pea-sized amount of high-quality thermal paste before reattaching the heatsink.
4. Reset BIOS Settings (If Overclocked)
- If you've overclocked your CPU, reset the BIOS to default settings:
- Restart your PC and enter BIOS (press DEL or F2).
- Find the Reset to Default option and apply it.
- Save changes and exit BIOS.
5. Monitor CPU Temperature
Use software like:
- HWMonitor
- Core Temp
- MSI Afterburner
Check if your CPU temperatures stay below 70-80°C under load.
6. Check Your Power Supply Unit (PSU)
A failing PSU can cause voltage fluctuations, leading to CPU overheating. Try using a different power supply to rule out this issue.
7. Upgrade Your Cooling System
- Air Cooling: Get a high-performance CPU cooler like Noctua NH-D15.
- Liquid Cooling: Consider an AIO (All-in-One) liquid cooler like Corsair H100i.
8. Change the Thermal Throttle Settings (Advanced Users)
- Go to BIOS and lower CPU power limits (PL1/PL2) to reduce heat.
- Enable CPU fan speed control for better cooling.
Final Thoughts
A CPU Over Temperature Error should never be ignored. By following these steps, you can keep your system cool, extend your CPU's lifespan, and prevent future overheating issues.
If the error persists despite these fixes, your CPU or motherboard might be damaged, and professional servicing is recommended.
#CPUTemperature #OverheatingFix #PCCooling #ThermalPaste #TechSupport #GamingPC #BIOSFix #ComputerRepair
