The XINPUT1_3.dll error commonly appears when launching older games or applications that depend on legacy Microsoft DirectX components. Instead of opening normally, the program may display messages such as "XINPUT1_3.dll was not found," "XINPUT1_3.dll is missing," or "The code execution cannot proceed because XINPUT1_3.dll was not found." This usually indicates that the required DirectX runtime is missing, damaged, or was not installed correctly with the affected software. Rather than downloading an individual DLL from an unknown website, you can restore the required components through safer repair methods. The solutions below cover DirectX installation, Windows system file repair, automatic DLL repair, and game or application reinstallation.
Reinstall or Update DirectX
Since XINPUT1_3.dll is part of DirectX, reinstalling or updating it often fixes the problem.
Visit the official Microsoft DirectX download page
Download the DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions
Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved
This method automatically replaces missing or corrupted DirectX components.
Repair Files
Corrupted system files can also trigger XINPUT1_3.dll errors. Use Windows built-in tools to repair them.
Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator
Type the following command and press Enter
sfc /scannow
Wait for the scan to complete; Windows will automatically repair corrupted system files
Next, run the following command to repair the system image
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Restart your PC and test the program again
Repair the XINPUT1_3.dll File Automatically
If the XINPUT1_3.dll error still appears after reinstalling DirectX or updating your system, it may indicate deeper issues, such as corrupted DLL entries or damaged registry settings. In this case, using a dedicated repair tool like PcGoGo DLL Fixer can automatically detect and restore missing or broken DLL files—including XINPUT1_3.dll—and fix related system problems.
Reinstall the Affected Game or Software
If the error occurs only with one program, its installation may be corrupted.
Open Control Panel → Programs and Features
Uninstall the program showing the error
Restart your PC
Reinstall the program from an official source
For Steam games, use Verify integrity of game files to ensure all components are complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is XINPUT1_3.dll included with the latest version of DirectX?
XINPUT1_3.dll is a legacy DirectX component used by some older games. Having DirectX 12 installed does not necessarily provide it. Install the official DirectX End-User Runtime from Microsoft if the game requires the file.
Will SFC or DISM restore XINPUT1_3.dll?
Usually not directly. Those tools repair protected Windows files and the Windows image. The official DirectX runtime is the more relevant fix for a missing XINPUT1_3.dll file.
What if only one Steam game shows the error?
In Steam, open the game's Properties → Installed Files → Verify integrity of game files. If the error remains, run the game's bundled DirectX installer if it has one, or install Microsoft's DirectX End-User Runtime.
Conclusion
The XINPUT1_3.dll not found error occurs when DirectX components, system files, or drivers are missing or corrupted, preventing programs and games from running; it can be resolved by reinstalling or updating DirectX, repairing system files, reinstalling affected software, or using a DLL repair tool, and can be prevented by keeping Windows, drivers, and software up to date and maintaining regular backups.
