Sims 4 Error Code 122 (dd7d01fa aab9abe8) – Fix It Fast

The Sims 4 is one of the most celebrated life simulation games of all time, providing players a digital world in which they can create, control, and customize every aspect of their Sims’ lives. However, despite its polish and frequent updates, it’s not immune to errors. One particularly troublesome and recurring issue that players report is the Error Code 122 (dd7d01fa aab9abe8). If you’ve encountered this cryptic message while trying to load a save or perform everyday actions in the game, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are proven methods to fix it—and fast.

What Is Sims 4 Error Code 122?

This error typically appears when players try to load a household, resume a saved game, or make certain in-game transitions. The full string may look something like this:

Error Code 122: dd7d01fa:aab9abe8: The game failed to load. Error code 122. It is recommended that you relaunch the game.

While the error message suggests a relaunch, for many players, simply restarting the game doesn’t solve the issue. Understanding what causes it is key to applying a lasting fix.

Common Causes of Error Code 122

This error may seem random at first, but it often stems from the following reasons:

  • Corrupted or incompatible mods
  • Broken save files
  • Conflicts after a recent game update or patch
  • Corrupt custom content (CC)
  • Issues with cache files or user data

Each of these can interfere with how the game reads and loads your saves, resulting in the infamous error. Luckily, many players have resolved the issue by using a structured approach to isolate and correct the root cause.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Sims 4 Error Code 122

1. Update the Game

Before diving into deeper troubleshooting, ensure your Sims 4 game is up-to-date. EA regularly releases patches that fix bugs and stabilize performance.

  • Open the EA App (or Origin, if you’re still using it)
  • Check for updates for The Sims 4
  • Install any available updates and restart the game

If your game is already updated and the problem persists, continue to the next steps.

2. Remove or Update Mods and Custom Content

[ai-img]sims 4 mods, game crash, custom content[/ai-img]
One of the leading causes behind Error Code 122 is outdated or corrupted mods and CC. After every game patch, some mods may become incompatible and disrupt core functions.

Follow these steps:

  1. Navigate to your Sims 4 Mods folder (Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > Mods).
  2. Move the entire folder to your desktop temporarily.
  3. Try launching the game without mods.
  4. If the game runs smoothly, you can confirm that one or more mods were likely causing the error.
  5. Reintroduce mods in small groups to identify the culprit. Update or replace outdated mods from trusted sources.

TIP: Use tools like the Mod Conflict Detector or online mod managers to streamline this process.

3. Restore a Previous Save

If the issue still appears, your most recent save may have become corrupted. Fortunately, Sims 4 stores multiple save backups that you can access:

  • Go to Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > saves
  • Look for files with the same name but different extensions (e.g., Slot_00000002.save, Slot_00000002.save.ver0, .ver1, etc.)
  • Rename an earlier version (e.g., .ver1) by removing the extension so it becomes your primary save (e.g., change .save.ver1 to .save)
  • Boot up the game and try loading that save

Restoring a backup can resolve errors without sacrificing hours of gameplay.

4. Clear Cache and Local Data

Another undervalued fix is clearing the game’s cache. Over time, stored temporary files can interfere with performance and data management.

How to safely clear cache:

  • Close The Sims 4 completely
  • Navigate to Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4
  • Delete the following folders:
    • localthumbcache.package
    • cache
    • cachestr
  • Restart the game

This won’t delete your saved households or builds but may eliminate files causing the error.

5. Repair the Sims 4 Installation

[ai-img]repair game, sims 4 menu, fix error code[/ai-img]
If none of the above methods work, the error may stem from corruption in the core game files. Fortunately, you can repair your installation easily:

  • Open the EA App (or Origin)
  • Find The Sims 4 in your game library
  • Click the three-dot menu or right-click, then select Repair

The app will scan all game files and replace any corrupted or missing data. Once completed, launch the game and test for the error.

6. Reset the Sims 4 Game Folder

If the problem persists, you can trick the game into creating a brand-new user data folder, often resolving deep-seated issues.

Here’s how:

  1. Back up your entire Sims 4 folder found in Documents > Electronic Arts
  2. Move the original folder to your desktop or rename it to something like Sims 4 Backup
  3. Launch the game. A clean folder will be automatically created
  4. Gradually reintroduce your saves, Tray items, and Mods—one at a time

By reintroducing data carefully, you’ll identify which file or mod caused the crash while saving as much content as possible.

Additional Tips to Prevent Future Errors

Once you’ve fixed the error, it’s crucial to take steps that prevent its return. Here are some helpful recommendations:

  • Regularly back up your Sims 4 folder—especially before major updates
  • Keep your mods up to date by following mod creators on platforms like ModTheSims and Patreon
  • Enable Script Mod Warnings in-game so you’re alerted to bad files
  • Avoid saving the game during high processing moments (e.g., while loading a new lot)
  • Use minimal mods until you confirm compatibility after each patch

When to Reach Out to EA Support

If you’ve tried all of the solutions above and Error Code 122 continues to plague your gameplay, it’s time to escalate the issue. You can contact EA Support directly or visit the official Answers HQ forums, where other players and developers may assist.

To get quicker results, include:

  • Your DxDiag file (system specs)
  • Exact error messages and experienced behavior
  • Steps you’ve already taken to resolve the issue

Conclusion

Error Code 122 (dd7d01fa aab9abe8) in The Sims 4 can be a frustrating roadblock, but it is far from a dead end. Whether it’s due to a corrupted save, outdated mods, or cache issues, most players find success with the methods outlined here. By following these trusted steps, you can get your game working again quickly—without losing your progress or giving up your digital world.

From careful backup habits to smart mod management, preventative strategies are the best long-term defense. Keep your game clean, updated, and backed up—and when issues arise, you’ll now