Several years ago I had something happen, what God only knows. I had a BSOD and could not boot in any mode.
After weeks and weeks of searching, I happened upon this:
http://www.theminorityreportblog.com/story/aekowalski/2008/04/24/vista_0xc1f5_bug_fixed_with_linux_frenchmen
(it has links for more info)
and this
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_OjCkbZyTw
Basically what I did was make an image Linux Rescue disk, (sysresccd http://www.sysresccd.org/Main_Page ) load it into the bad laptop and then was able to get into my Vista directories. It seemed like information overload, but once I was able to focus in, it was just a matter of following directions.
The image disk has a ton of options. I was able to save my files and reinstall vista. You might want to wipe it all out & reformat.
Gave that laptop to my son & bought a new one. (Seniority has its perks, LOL!) It has been working liking a charm for him ever since.
BTW, for me to be able to find the disk and the directions after 3 years means it has a 5 star rating. I can never find anything around here. :-)
It seems to be for Vista only.
I have XP.