My RTX 5070 Ti has crashed three times over the past two months while I was playing BeamNG.drive. Both monitors suddenly lose signal and the GPU fans ramp to maximum, but I can still hear audio and shut the computer down using the case button. Reseating the components hasn't revealed anything obvious because the problem is so infrequent. After a crash, Windows usually boots to another black screen until I enter the BIOS; I don't need to change any settings, but once the BIOS screen appears and I enter it, the GPU works normally again through subsequent restarts. I'm using the power adapter included with the graphics card and a relatively new 1000-watt power supply. What should I troubleshoot next?
3 Answers
Don’t completely rule out system memory just because the GPU appears to be the problem. A marginal RAM stick can work normally most of the time and still cause rare crashes, so testing each stick individually or swapping slots can help. An overnight memory test is reassuring, but it doesn’t always catch every intermittent fault.
Start with a clean graphics-driver installation using DDU, then reinstall the latest driver. Also unplug and firmly reconnect the GPU power cable at both the graphics card and PSU ends. If you’re using an adapter instead of a native 12V-2x6 cable, testing with a compatible PSU that has a native connection could help isolate a power-delivery problem.
I already used DDU and completely reinstalled the driver about two months ago. Since the crashes are so rare, I’m wondering whether the adapter or power supply could still be involved. I may test with a different PSU that has a native 12V-2x6 connection.
The 12V-2x6 connection is worth checking carefully on both ends. Make sure it is fully inserted, has no sharp bend right next to the plug, and shows no discoloration, melted plastic, or heat damage. Driver problems are still possible, but an intermittent power connection can cause a black screen with the fans stuck at full speed.
I checked both ends of the connector and didn’t see any melting or other damage. I also reinstalled the drivers after the most recent crash, so I’m monitoring it for now.
I’ve already run several overnight memory tests without errors, so I hope the RAM isn’t the cause, but I’ll keep it in mind if the crashes continue.