Graphics · medium

How to fix PCIe slot bandwidth limitation

Error code: PCI-E-BANDWIDTH-ISSUE

What this error means

The graphics card runs on a lower generation or PCIe bus width (eg Gen3 x4 instead of Gen4 x16), which reduces performance. This usually traces back to misplaced GPU in slot, m.2 NVMe drives sharing lines and bad settings in BIOS.

Updated

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Reposition the GPU and blow through the
  1. Reposition the GPU and blow through the
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
02slot Clean the gold pins of the GPU with isopropyl alcohol
  1. slot Clean the gold pins of the GPU with isopropyl alcohol
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
03Move the NVMe drive to another slot not connected to PCIe_1
  1. Move the NVMe drive to another slot not connected to PCIe_1
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors

Possible causes

  • Misplaced GPU in slot
  • Dusty PCIe contacts
  • M.2 NVMe drives sharing lines
  • Bad settings in BIOS

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review changes before applying them.

dxdiag