Save game error

Error 12, 13, or 16 are errors in The Sims 3 that prevents a game from saving successfully. A patch came out fixing this problem and a subsequent patch added an auto recovery prompt to recover save games previously corrupted. This solution can also restore corrupted saved game files. The error may be caused by overcrowding on a lot, which may be remedied by Editing the Town, moving the offending lot, then placing it back in its original location, thus resetting the lot.

If the error persists, additional remedies may be needed, at the risk of the user. Users should be cautious when employing suggested remedies, as altering files may possibly cause irreversible damage to a saved game file or to the game itself. It is highly encouraged that the user make a backup of their data before attempting to fix the problem using any suggested solutions.

The easiest way to fix this problem is to 'Save As' on a different game file each time instead of 'Save'. This also reduces the chance of losing the game due to file corruption and creates a backup of sorts.