Audio adjustment freezes Premier Elements 15

I am experiencing trouble when I try to alter audio level in my project. If I alter the level then try it out with "Play" the program freezes then shuts down. I can only make the change if I save the project immediately after making a change but then the effect is not evident in the video clip. I have checked for drivers for sound and video cards but all seem up to date. I tried to uninstall then reinstall Prem,eir Elelemnts which did not cure the issue. The I disabled the video card but none of these seem to make any difference. I am using Premier Elements 15 and Photoshop Elements 2020. Please help.