Windows & BSOD · medium

How to fixBLUETOOTH-PAIRING-FAIL

Bluetooth device fails to pair

What this error means

Bluetooth device fails to pair ranks as a medium-severity Windows operating system issue in our database. Bluetooth device cannot complete the pairing process, shows 'Try connecting your device again' or stays stuck at 'Pairing'. Common triggers are driver mismatch after Windows update and too many paired devices in registry cache. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Remove old pairing entry in Bluetooth settings and retry

Remove old pairing entry in Bluetooth settings and retry.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

I need help
02Update the Bluetooth driver (Intel/Realtek/Qualcomm)

Update the Bluetooth driver (Intel/Realtek/Qualcomm).

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

I need help
03Run: Remove-Item 'HKLM:\SYSTEM\...\Bluetooth\...' to clear cache

Run: Remove-Item 'HKLM:\SYSTEM\...\Bluetooth\...' to clear cache.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

I need help

Possible causes

  • Device in pairing mode of different profile
  • Driver mismatch after Windows update
  • Too many paired devices in registry cache

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review any action inside the tool before applying changes.

devmgmt.msc