How to fix an HP laptop that randomly shuts down

It happens suddenly, with no warning. You're working on an important project for work, and your HP® laptop shuts down randomly. Is there a ghost in the machine? No—it's likely due to a fault or power supply issue. With a bit of troubleshooting, you can resolve the problem and prevent future unexpected shutdowns.

Asurion Experts are here to help you with all your tech care needs. Whether you want to stop your laptop from overheating or safely clean a laptop screen, we empower you with the know-how to keep your favorite devices working as they should. If your HP laptop keeps shutting down randomly, follow these troubleshooting steps to get it running smoothly again.

Why does my HP laptop keep shutting down randomly?

An HP laptop that shuts down out of the blue is usually caused by one of the following: 

Overheating issues

Feel around the edges of your laptop. Is it hot enough to warm up your fingers? If it is, your device may be in danger of overheating. Clogged vents and accumulated dust near the laptop's fan can cause it to run too hot. The laptop's safety mechanisms kick in to shut down before the heat damages internal components. 

Power supply problems

A laptop runs on power supplied through electrical outlets and its internal battery. If the device isn't plugged into a power source and the battery runs out, it may shut down. Make sure that your HP laptop is plugged into a working outlet and that there isn't any visible damage to its power cables.

Battery and charging faults

Most HP laptop batteries last between two and four years or approximately 1,000 charge cycles. If the battery is approaching the end of its lifespan, your laptop may unexpectedly shut down.

BIOS and driver updates

Your laptop's Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) supports everyday computer operations, from startups to shutdowns. Like your operating system (OS), it may require updates to fix bugs and keep things running smoothly. An outdated BIOS can be the culprit that causes your laptop to shut down.

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How to troubleshoot an HP laptop that randomly shuts down

Try these fixes to resolve issues that cause your HP laptop to suddenly shut down.

Clean vents and ensure proper airflow

Turn your computer facedown and locate its exhaust vents. They're typically square and contain numerous air holes for air to flow in and out of the device. Notice if dust build-up is clogging the vents. 

Use a can of compressed air to gently clean the vents and remove dust and grime. You may also apply a laptop cooling pad to stimulate airflow. 

Test the power adapter and battery

Look for any damage to the HP laptop's power adapter. Confirm that the adapter box doesn't have any cracks or heat damage and that the DC adapter cord's tip is straight. Plug it into the laptop and notice if the light comes on, which indicates your laptop is receiving power. 

You may also test the battery to verify it doesn't require replacement.

1. Visit HP's Battery and Adapter Issues website. 
2. Click Launch Now, which appears under the Battery Check header. 
3. Follow the on-screen instructions. The results will show the battery's current state and whether it requires maintenance.

Run HP diagnostic tools

HP includes diagnostic tools for identifying problems with the laptop's hardware components. These tools may be pre-installed on your laptop, or you can download the latest version through HP's Hardware Diagnostics website.

1. Search for the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics app in Windows. 
2. Right-click on the app and select Run as Administrator.
3. Click Computer Tests on the main window.
4. Click Start Fast Test. It appears at the bottom of the window.
5. Allow the test to progress. It may take up to five minutes.
6. If any components fail, click Troubleshoot and follow the on-screen instructions. Click Yes to submit the issue to HP Customer Support.

The HP Fast Test may not uncover any issues. If all components pass, run Extensive Tests. You'll find the option on the right side of your screen. Note that the Extensive Test may take two hours or longer to complete. 

1. If any components fail the Extensive Test, click Troubleshoot. 
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to fix the issue.
3. Note the failure ID and product ID of any failed components. You may submit the information to HP's Customer Support team for assistance. 

Update BIOS and drivers

Software manufacturers frequently release BIOS updates to fix known bugs and resolve conflicts. To find out if your device has any BIOS driver updates, check its current BIOS version.

1. Press the Windows and R keys simultaneously. Type "msinfo32" and press the Enter key.
2. Click BIOS Version/Date in the System Information window.
3. Note your current BIOS settings. Downloading new drivers may restore the system to its default settings. 

Once you know what BIOS version your laptop is running, you can check for updates on the HP website.

1. Navigate to the HP Software and Drivers website. 
2. Select Laptop as your product type.
3. Click Let HP detect your product to identify your laptop model. Alternatively, you can enter its serial number, product number, or name in the search bar below.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to select your OS and its version. Click Submit.
5. The available BIOS drivers appear underneath the BIOS drop-down menu. Compare the current version information with what's installed on your device. If there is a new release, click Download to save the BIOS drivers to your laptop. 
6. Run the installed driver utility and follow the on-screen instructions. Your HP laptop will restart after installation.

FAQ

What should I do if my HP laptop shuts down but the battery is fine?

If the battery is in good condition but your laptop still shuts down randomly:

• Ensure your power adapter and charging port are working correctly.
• Test the laptop while plugged in to rule out power supply issues.
• Run HP Diagnostics to check for hardware failures.
• Perform a system reset if the issue started after a recent update.

How do I reset my HP laptop’s power settings?

To reset power settings:

1. Open Control Panel > Power Options.
2. Click Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable.
3. Click Restore default settings for this plan.
4. Restart your laptop and check if the issue persists.

When should I replace my HP laptop battery?

Replace your HP battery if:

• It no longer holds a charge or drains quickly.
• The laptop only works when plugged in.
• The battery status in HP Support Assistant or Windows Battery Report shows a health warning.

If your HP laptop keeps shutting down randomly and none of these fixes work, it may require professional repair.