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Error Code 16 on Sims 3: Fastest 5 Ways to Fix It

Clear up some storage space to save more game files

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

The Sims 3 is a simulation game. You design the characters, create their personalities and interact with them in a virtual environment. As you create all these instances, you need to keep saving the game and that’s where the error code 16 may appear.

The error code 16 in Sims 3 is a save error that users seem to be experiencing after updating to the 22H2 build. It can be frustrating to have made progress to an advanced stage then unable to save to pick up when you want to play the next time.

Why I’m I getting the error code 16 in Sims 3?

Why I’m I getting the error code 16 in Sims 3?

Error code 16 is a common problem in the Sims 3 game where you are unable to save your game. There are many reasons why this happens. Below, we discuss some of the possible causes of this problem:

Now that we know the causes of this issue, let’s fix it with the solutions below.

How can I fix the error code 16 on Sims 3?

How can I fix the error code 16 on Sims 3?

Before going ahead with the methods mentioned below,  check the following things first:

1. Pause Windows updates

2. Uninstall OneDrive

For some peculiar reason, when you try to save Sims 3, it won’t save but once you uninstall OneDrive, you can successfully save it. A handful of users seemed to fix the issue after uninstalling or disabling it.

3. Clear storage space

One of the most common causes of this error is a lack of RAM or not having enough memory on your machine to run the game smoothly. There are many ways of clearing storage space; from deleting unnecessary files and programs torunning a Disk Cleanup.

This will free up some space for your operating system and should help resolve the issue with Error Code 16 in Sims 3.

4. Reduce graphics settings

Sims 3 allows you to customize your neighborhood, characters’ appearances, and many other traits. As such, these tend to bulk up the game file whenever you save it.

You can opt for more basic features or no enhanced features at all. It may be a basic game but it’s better than having to start from scratch. Better yet, check out some of thebest game settings for Windows 11for optimized performance.

5. Update your drivers

If you worry about choosing the wrong updates for your drivers, then you should try a specialized program, like Outbyte Driver Updater, to help you.

It is a great software that scans your PC for outdated drivers and then immediately locates the latest updates from its complete database.

Outbyte Driver Updater

And that’s how to fix the error code 16 in Sims 3. Should you encounter any other related issues such aserror code 12, feel free to check out our comprehensive article on the same.

You may also encounter aSims 3 error on startupbut we have also addressed the fixes in our expert article.

Some users have also complained thatSims 3 keeps crashingbut worry not as you can easily solve the issue by visiting our detailed guide.

Let us know of any solution not mentioned here but worked for you in the comment section below.

More about the topics:Windows 11

Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.

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Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.