Forum Discussion

puzzlezaddict's avatar
puzzlezaddict
Hero+
2 years ago

[CURRENT ISSUE] Sims 4 Unable to Start, Already Running

Overview jump to:  Workarounds This is a common error that is usually caused when Sims 4 cannot access the user folder in Documents > Electronic Arts.  It can also be triggered by outdated or...
null
crashing
guides
launching
MonaLulu's avatar
MonaLulu
Seasoned Newcomer
1 month ago

After updating The Sims 4 and pre-ordering the upcoming expansion, the game will not launch and displays the error “Unable to start: The Sims 4 is already running” with error code [ed35e0ea:29f00e76:00000000:18a1dd51].

  • I have restarted my computer multiple times 
  • Repaired the game
  • Cleared the EA App cache
  • Ended all Sims and EA-related processes in Task Manager
  • Restarted the EA Background Service
  • Ran the EA App as Administrator
  • Removed all Mods and CC
  • Logged out and back into the EA App
  • Fully uninstalled and reinstalled the EA App

The issue began on January 15, 2026, and continues to persist. Other EA titles launch normally, including The Sims Medieval, which runs without issue, indicating this problem is isolated to The Sims 4.

JadeRidley317's avatar
JadeRidley317
Seasoned Newcomer
1 month ago

I got mine working!!

 

DirectX 9 mode: Sims 4 now defaults to DirectX 11 mode on most computers. To force DX9 mode in the EA App, open the App game library, click Sims 4 Manage > View properties, add -dx9 to the box, and save. If you play through Steam, open your library, right-click Sims 4, select Properties > General, and add -dx9 to the Launch Options box.

Recent Discussions