KERNEL_MODE_HEAP_CORRUPTION — Causes & Fix
Windows Stop code 0x0000013A (KERNEL_MODE_HEAP_CORRUPTION) means the kernel heap became corrupted — a driver damaged kernel memory it was managing.
- Applies to
- Any Windows PC
- Time to fix
- 30 minutes – 2 hours
What it means
Causes include a faulty driver, corrupt system files, or bad RAM. This is a Windows Stop error (a "bugcheck" / blue screen) documented by Microsoft. The blue screen shows this code; more detail sits in the crash dump (%SystemRoot%\Minidump), which usually names the specific driver or component at fault — a free tool like BlueScreenView or WinDbg can read it.
Symptoms
- Blue screen citing KERNEL_MODE_HEAP_CORRUPTION
- Crashes tied to a driver/device
How to fix it
- 1
Update the offending driver
1. Identify and update/roll back the driver named in the dump (graphics drivers are common).
- 2
Repair files / test RAM
1. Run SFC/DISM and Windows Memory Diagnostic.
Frequently asked questions
Which driver causes 0x13A?
The crash dump names it — graphics drivers are a frequent cause. Update or cleanly reinstall it, then repair system files.
Last updated July 20, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.