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5 Quick and Easy Ways to Fix Error Code 12 on Sims 3
Get the game up and running in minutes
5 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Error Code 12 in Sims 3 has become common and has troubled users. Many posted about it on forums, and while some got reliable resolutions, others were left fending for themselves.
The complete error message, in this case, reads:An unexpected error has occurred while saving: Error Code 12.Please consult the readme for details.
However, unlike other errors, this one is easily fixable and wouldn’t require much of your time and effort. So, let’s find out how you can fixError Code 12 in Sims 3.
Why does Sims 3 error code 12 appear?
Users reported encountering Sims 3Error Code 12while saving their game’s progress. And it’s usually due to two reasons: there aren’t enough free system resources to save the game, or Sims 3 has hit the threshold of memory consumption.
Other than that, outdated graphics drivers or the game’s built-in graphics setting can also be an underlying cause. So, let’s find out the solutions and a few workarounds forError Code 12in Sims 3.
How do I fix Sims 3 error code 12?
1. Close all background programs and software
First, free up more RAM for Sims 3 before playing it by closing programs presently running on the computer. Then, make sure that you don’t terminate any critical ones.
Then close background processes for third-party programs listed underBackground processes. The best processes to terminate there are those for UWP Windows 10 apps, such as Edge, Photos, Skype, Mail, etc.
In addition, check if your system tray includes any icons for third-party programs. If so, close the programs from there by right-clicking them and selecting their exit (close) options.
Once done, verify if Error Code 12 in Sims 3 is fixed. If not, head to the following method.
2. Increase the Virtual Memory
After you have increased theVirtual Memory (Page File), check ifError Code 12in Sims 3 is resolved. If the memory allocation and its shortage led to the Sims 3 saving error, things should now be up and running.
3. Try saving with the Save as option
Instead of selectingSave, try clicking theSave Asoption instead. Then give the savegamea completely different file title. In addition, don’t include spaces within your savedgame’sfile title.
Overriding the saved file persistently has also caused the error for many. Instead, experts recommend that you keep progress on different files or change the title.
4. Delete game save folders
Deleting game save folders that end with a.badextension might also fixError Code 12for some Sims 3 players. This has worked for many, and we recommend giving it a try. If the problem remains unresolved, head to the final method.
5. Reduce Sims 3’s graphics settings
Players can also minimize Sims 3’s RAM consumption by lowering graphics settings. And if nothing else has worked, this is probably the only solution toError Code 12in Sims 3.
Why does The Sims 3 crash so much?
The game usually runs fine for most users, but some have reported thatSims 3 keeps crashing in Windows 10. For many, it could be incompatibility, or thesystem requirements for Sims 3are not met.
Also, corrupt game files or misconfigured system settings are likely reasons behind the crash. Finally, some users reported running an outdated version of the game or the OS, which caused the crash. Besides, removing the recently installed mods did the trick for many.
That’s all there’s toError Code 12in Sims 3 regarding the game crashing in Windows. By the time you are done with the guide, the error should be long gone, along with other minor issues with the game.
Also, find out how toseamlessly install Sims 4 modson Windows and Mac.
Please tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
