Sounds like quite the journey!

When Windows update-related issues occur, they can often affect other system functionalities like the start menu search. The repair install essentially reinstalls Windows while keeping your files, applications, and settings intact, which can help resolve underlying system corruption issues or missing files.

If this problem reoccurs, here are a few steps you might want to try before resorting to a full repair install:

1. **Run the Windows Troubleshooter:**
- Go to `Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot`.