Chrome crashing after v131 update? Try this potential fix

Some Google Chrome users on Windows are reporting crashes following the latest v131.0.6778.70 update, but there might be a simple solution. The issue appears to be linked to popular ad-blocking extensions, particularly Adblock Plus.

Since the update has only recently started rolling out, we’re not seeing a wave of reports just yet. However, a few affected users have taken to Google’s support forums and Reddit stating their browsers are crashing within seconds of launching, making it nearly impossible to access Chrome’s settings or disable problematic extensions through the usual method. The issue seems to have coincided with recent Windows updates, leading to initial confusion about the root cause.

“A few seconds after I start Google Chrome it just closes,” reported one user on the Google Chrome support forum. “I’ve tried all the recommended steps, but the problem still exists.”

Thankfully, there’s a workaround. Users have discovered that removing or disabling Adblock Plus resolves the crashing issue. If you can’t keep Chrome open long enough to disable the extension normally, you can remove it manually through your computer’s file system.

For those experiencing this issue, here’s a quick fix:

1. Close Chrome completely
2. Navigate to your Chrome user data folder (C:\Users[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Extensions)
3. Locate and delete the Adblock Plus extension folder
4. Restart Chrome

Some users report needing an alternative ad blocker after removing Adblock Plus. If you’re among them, you might want to explore other options compatible with Chrome’s latest version.

The timing of these crashes coincides with Chrome’s continued implementation of Manifest V3, which has been known to cause compatibility issues with various ad-blocking extensions. While Google hasn’t officially commented on the situation, users who’ve applied this fix report their browsers are now working normally again.