AI coding tool error: how to fix it when the AI keeps "fixing" the same bug

What it means

The AI is guessing. Each try changes more code, and the real cause gets buried. You're burning credits without making progress.

How to fix it

1. Stop asking it to "fix it." Copy the exact error text, including the file name and line number.
2. Ask: "Don't change any code yet. Explain the most likely cause of this error in one sentence."
3. Then ask for the smallest possible fix, touching only the file in the error.
4. Test right away. If something new breaks, undo the change and repeat with the new error.

FAQ

Why does my AI coding tool keep fixing the same error?

It's guessing without knowing the real cause, and every try changes more code.

How do I get Cursor, Lovable, or Bolt out of an error loop?

Paste the exact error, ask it to explain the cause before changing any code, then ask for the smallest fix in just that one file.

How do I stop wasting credits on AI coding errors?

Give the AI one clear prompt with the exact error and the likely cause, instead of saying "fix it" over and over. Unstuck writes that prompt for you.