If you have Showtime installed, you can try logging out of the official Sims 3 site through the options menu. This is the most reliable method we have found to get around the error. This way, new data is created on the hard drive, and some parts of the data in the RAM will not be transferred.

If that fails, rather than doing a standard save, trying doing a 'Save As.' and give your file a new name. You might be able to switch active families, then switch back, then save. Oftentimes, because RAM is the issue, the solution is to release the RAM back into the system by unloading some loaded information.įor example, switching active families from Edit Town mode will make all Sims in the neighborhood cancel their current action, and it will make your active Sims cancel their wishes and promises. If struck with Error 12 when you attempt to save, you might be able to recover without leaving the game. Task switching (such as with Alt-Tab or by pressing the Windows Key) will negatively impact your RAM as well, so you'll want to keep those actions to a minimum. You'll want to close any non-essential programs, such as music players or web browsers, if at all possible. You'll find that Error 12 strikes often if you've gone over an in-game week without saving but after you access Create-A-Sim mode.įinally, any additional programs you may be running in the background will take up RAM, leaving less for The Sims 3 to use.

If the saving times aren't unacceptable, we recommend saving every in-game night while all Sims are sleeping, as well as before going on any World Adventures.Īlso, save before giving any 'Plan Outfit' command, and try saving again if you successfully make changes and cleanly get back to the game again. Be sure to save often, especially if your computer is running with less than 4 GB RAM. Due to its causes, Error 12 is easier to prevent.

Sims 3 taking forever to save