VBA macros help in simplifying and extending the Excel functions. Besides, they also help when it comes to automation. But sometimes, they throw some error messages when they experience a problem. Although these Excel error messages can be nagging they are actually helpful since they tell you something is not working as it should. One of the most common is VBA Runtime Error 400. This article guides you step by step on how to solve the VBA error 400.
What is VBA Runtime Error 400?
VBA Runtime Error 400 typically occurs in Microsoft Excel and is associated with a form control or ActiveX control misconfiguration. It indicates an issue in the form or control properties, often caused by incorrect object references or improper control settings. Developers encounter this error when manipulating Excel objects through Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) code.
To resolve it, one should carefully review and adjust the control properties, ensuring they align with the intended functionality, and verify the correct object references are used in the code, preventing potential conflicts or inconsistencies that trigger the Runtime Error 400.
How to fix the error
There are several ways you can fix this error depending on your spreadsheet. Here are some of the methods. If the first doesn’t work out jump to the next and so on until you find the solution.
1. Enable trusted Access to VBA
It’s important to make sure that VBA projects are trusted. If the VBA code tries to access an object model but lacks the permission to do so, then you may face the run time error 400 Here are the steps
1. First click on the developer tab (If you do not see the developer tab on your Excel document then you need to enable it. This step covers how to enable the developer tab in Excel step by step )
2. Click on Macros security under the code group
2. Debug the Code
3. Tick the option that says Trust Access to the VBA Project Object Model
4. Click okay to apply changes
Fix Corrupted Excel File
A corrupted Excel file may also cause this runtime error. To solve it you just have to repair the corrupt Excel file. Fixing a corrupted file is easy by using the Excel repair feature.
1. Open Excel and go to File > Open.
2. Navigate to the folder containing the corrupted file.
3. Instead of directly opening the file, select the file, click the drop-down arrow next to the “Open” button, and choose “Open in Repair Mode.
Move the Macro to another Module
Another reason why you may facing the VBA error 400 is because of a problematic module. Moving the module to a new module can solve the problem. Here are the steps.
1. Launch the spreadsheet containing your VBA
2. Click on the developer tab and click on Visual Basic to open the editor
3. Click on the old module from the list in the left side panel and copy the VBA code. For example, this code is inserted in a sheet rather than a module.
4. Click on insert>module to create a new module then paste the VBA code you have copied.
5. Go back to the old module and delete it
6. Now you can save your document and run the VBA code
Check for deleted objects
Checking for deleted objects in VBA code is crucial to prevent error 400. When an object is deleted or not properly referenced, it triggers this error. Regularly review and update code to ensure all referenced objects exist, preventing runtime errors and enhancing the stability of the VBA application.
Update the Excel program
Using outdated Excel may cause VBA error 400 due to compatibility issues. Newer VBA features and functions may not be supported, leading to errors in code execution and functionality.
1. Check Current Version:
- Navigate to the “File” tab in the Excel ribbon.
- Click on “Account” or a similar option to find information about your current version.
2. Connect to the Internet:
- Ensure that your computer is connected to the internet before proceeding with the update.
3. Access Account Information:
- If you are using a subscription-based version of Excel (such as Microsoft 365), go to the account section and check for available updates.
4. Check for Updates:
- Look for an option like “Update Options” or “Office Updates” in the account section.
- Click on “Update Now” or a similar button to check for the latest updates.
5. Automatic Updates (Microsoft 365):
If you have a Microsoft 365 subscription, updates are often applied automatically. Ensure that your automatic update settings are turned on.
6. Download and Install Updates:
- If updates are available, Excel will prompt you to download and install them. Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed.
7. Restart Excel:
- After the updates are installed, restart Microsoft Excel to apply the changes.
8. Windows Update (if applicable):
- If you are using a standalone version of Excel or an older version, you may need to check for Windows updates. Go to your computer’s settings, then “Update & Security,” and check for updates.
9. Mac App Store (if applicable):
- For Excel on macOS, check for updates through the Mac App Store. Open the App Store, go to the “Updates” tab, and install any available updates for Microsoft Excel.
