If the location where Windows 7 saves the update files becomes corrupted, then updates may not load. The temporary update files are stored at C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download and that folder ...
Reinstalling Windows is disruptive. Run these built-in Command Prompt repairs in the right order to fix disk, system files, ...
Won't even need to stop the service, as long as you don't plan on removing those updates, then there is no harm in deleting the SoftwareUpdates folder.
Struggling with the Windows 11 "Windows Update" Catalog Error? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to get your updates ...