NVIDIA Video Driver Crash (nvlddmkm.sys Error)

What is the nvlddmkm.sys error

The nvlddmkm.sys error indicates a crash of the NVIDIA graphics card kernel driver. This is one of the core system files for the driver, and its failure leads to:

• Blue Screens (BSOD)
• Game crashes
• Visual artifacts on screen
• System freezes

Main causes

1. GPU overheating — temperature above 83–85°C.
2. Driver conflict after an update.
3. Insufficient power supply — not enough wattage for the GPU.
4. Overclocking beyond stable values.
5. Corrupted driver — incomplete installation.
6. Conflict with antivirus or security software.
7. Physical issues with the graphics card.

How to fix the nvlddmkm.sys error

1. Check GPU temperature

Download:

• MSI Afterburner
• HWiNFO

Normal ranges:

• Idle: 30–45°C
• Under load: up to 70–75°C
• Critical: 83°C+

If overheating:

• Clean fans from dust
• Replace thermal paste
• Ensure the case has good airflow

2. Reinstall drivers

Option A: via DDU (recommended)

1. Download Display Driver Uninstaller
2. Boot Windows into Safe Mode
3. Run DDU → "Clean and restart"
4. After reboot, install the latest driver from nvidia.com

Option B: standard

1. Open "Device Manager"
2. "Display adapters" → NVIDIA → "Uninstall device"
3. Download the latest driver from nvidia.com and install

3. Roll back the driver

1. "Device Manager" → NVIDIA
2. "Properties" → "Driver" → "Roll Back Driver"
3. Reboot the PC

4. Disable overclocking

If using MSI Afterburner or RivaTuner:

1. Reset all settings to Default
2. Disable CoolBooster
3. Reboot the PC

5. Check the power supply

Ensure the wattage is sufficient:

• GTX 1650–1660: minimum 350W
• RTX 3060–3070: minimum 550W
• RTX 3080+: minimum 750W

Connect additional PCIe power cables.

6. Check the PCIe slot

Remove the graphics card and insert it into a different slot. Clean the contacts with an eraser.

Prevention

• Monitor GPU temperature constantly.
• Avoid aggressive overclocking.
• Update drivers to stable versions (not beta).
• Clean the PC of dust every 3–6 months.
• Use a quality power supply with a 20–30% wattage reserve.