Valorant crashes are frustrating, often stemming from outdated drivers, corrupted game files, conflicting software, or hardware limitations. To fix Valorant crashes, start by updating your graphics drivers and the operating system. If problems persist, try repairing or reinstalling the game. This guide covers these and other solutions in detail.

Identifying the Root Cause

Common symptoms of Valorant crashes include:

  • Sudden game closure: The game shuts down without warning.
  • Freezing: The game freezes, requiring a system restart.
  • Error messages: Codes like VAN 9005 or a generic crash message.
  • Blue Screen of Death (BSOD): A serious system error.

Identifying these symptoms can help narrow down the cause.

Common Causes of Valorant Crashes & Their Fixes

1. Outdated or Corrupted Graphics Drivers

Graphics drivers are crucial for GPU communication. Outdated or corrupted drivers are a frequent cause of crashes.

How to Fix:

  • Update your drivers:
    • Nvidia: Download the latest drivers from the Nvidia website or use GeForce Experience.
    • AMD: Download the latest drivers from the AMD website or use AMD Adrenalin software.
    • Intel: Visit Intel’s website for integrated GPU drivers.
  • Perform a Clean Driver Installation: Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to remove old drivers before installing new ones. This prevents conflicts.
  • Roll back to older drivers: If crashes started after an update, revert to a previous stable version.

2. Incompatible or Outdated Windows Version

Valorant requires a compatible Windows version. Older or corrupted system files can cause crashes.

How to Fix:

  • Update Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install all updates.
  • Run System File Checker (SFC): Open Command Prompt as administrator and type sfc /scannow to repair corrupted system files.
  • Consider a Clean Install of Windows: As a last resort, back up your data and perform a clean install.

3. Hardware Issues

Hardware problems like overheating, RAM issues, or a failing hard drive can lead to crashes.

How to Fix:

  • Monitor your temperatures: Use software like HWMonitor to check CPU and GPU temperatures during gameplay. Ensure adequate cooling.
  • Test your RAM: Use Windows Memory Diagnostic or Memtest86 to check for RAM errors.
  • Check your hard drive: Run CHKDSK to check for hard drive errors.
  • Insufficient System Resources: Valorant requires minimum RAM and CPU specs. Ensure your system meets them.

4. Conflicting Software and Overlays

Overlays and antivirus programs can interfere with Valorant.

How to Fix:

  • Disable overlays: Disable overlays from programs like Discord, Steam, and Nvidia GeForce Experience.
  • Temporarily disable your antivirus: Disable your antivirus temporarily to see if it resolves the issue. If it does, add Valorant to the exclusion list.
  • Close unnecessary background applications: Close any unnecessary programs running in the background.

5. Game File Corruption

Valorant’s game files can become corrupted, leading to crashes.

How to Fix:

  • Verify Game File Integrity: In the Riot Games Launcher, navigate to Valorant, click the settings icon, and select “Repair.”
  • Reinstall Valorant: If verifying game files doesn’t work, reinstall Valorant completely.

6. VAN 9005 Error and TPM 2.0 Issues

The VAN 9005 error indicates an issue with Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 and Secure Boot.

How to Fix:

  • Enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in BIOS: Access your computer’s BIOS settings (usually by pressing Delete, F2, or F12 during startup) and enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. Consult your motherboard’s manual for specific instructions.
  • Check Vanguard Status: Make sure that Vanguard is running and enabled. If not, try reinstalling it.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check the Event Viewer: The Event Viewer can provide detailed information about system errors and crashes related to Valorant or Riot Vanguard.
  • Update your BIOS: An outdated BIOS can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Check your motherboard manufacturer’s website for BIOS updates. Caution: Updating your BIOS can be risky, so proceed with caution.
  • Run Valorant as administrator: Right-click on the Valorant shortcut and select “Run as administrator.” This can sometimes resolve permission issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Valorant keep crashing on my PC?

Valorant crashes can be caused by several factors, including outdated graphics drivers, corrupted game files, conflicting software, hardware issues like overheating, or problems with TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot settings.

How do I update my graphics drivers to fix Valorant crashes?

You can update your graphics drivers by visiting the Nvidia, AMD, or Intel website, depending on your GPU. Download and install the latest drivers for your specific graphics card. Consider using tools like GeForce Experience (Nvidia) or AMD Adrenalin for easier updates. For a clean install, use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) first.

What is the VAN 9005 error, and how do I fix it?

The VAN 9005 error in Valorant indicates an issue with Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 and Secure Boot. To fix it, access your computer’s BIOS settings and enable both TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. Consult your motherboard’s manual for specific instructions.