Solving Unable to Record Macro in Excel Error- 6 Easy Fixes!

In Microsoft Excel, Macros are excellent tools that automate repetitive tasks. However, it is common to encounter the “Unable to Record” error that can disrupt your workflow. In this blog, I will mention why unable to record macro in Excel and how to resolve the issue step by step.

Unable to Record Macro in Excel Error

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Why Can’t I Record a Macro in Excel?

Most probably Excel avoids recording a macro due to a wide variety of reasons from configuration to permission issues. Besides, there are some other reasons as well that can trigger this warning message:

  1. Macros are disabled in the Excel settings.
  2. XLS or XLSX file is itself corrupted.
  3. Inadequate permissions to save macros.
  4. Incompatibility between Excel version & file format.
  5. Incorrect file location.

As you know the common causes now it’s time to tackle cannot record macro in Excel spreadsheet.

What to Do If Unable to Record Macro in Excel Sheet?

Follow the below tricks to get rid of it:

Fix 1- Verify XLStart Folder Path

Incorrect or wrong XLStart folder is the major reason for this error. All you need to do is to check for the location of Personal.xlsb file. Here is how you can do so:

  • Open Microsoft Excel.
  • Navigate to File >> Options.
  • After this, click Trust Center option >> Trust Center Settings.
  • Under Trust Center Settings, you have to click on the Trusted Locations.
  • Now, check the XLSTART folder path & modify it if needed.
  • Finally, click OK and save the changes you have made.

Fix 2- Restore from File Recent Backup

Restore Data from Backup

Restoring a backup file is one of the primary options that can assist in dealing with workbook issues without any hassle. It means if you’re continuously facing an unable to record macro in Excel error, consider restoring a healthy file from a backup folder.

In case, if you don’t have a backup, proceed to the next solution.

Also Read: Fixed- Office Has Detected A Problem With This File Protected View Error

Fix 3- Disable Faulty Add-ins

Sometimes, faulty or corrupt add-ins within MS Excel can trigger such worksheet errors. You can deal with such situations by identifying & disabling the add-ins.

Follow the below instructions carefully to do this.

  • Open MS Excel >> Navigate to Options >> Add-Ins under ‘Excel Options’ window.
  • Next, choose COM Add-ins option by expanding a ‘Manage’ button.

COM Add-ins

  • Lastly, click Go & uncheck all COM Add-ins >> click OK.

Fix 4- Check the Macros Settings to Resolve Unable to Record Macro in Excel

Another effective method you can try to solve cannot record macro in Excel is to check for the macro settings & ensure they are correct.

Here is how you can do so:

  • Firstly, click on File >> Options >> Trust Center.
  • Click on Trust Center Settings.
  • After this, click Macro Settings.
  • Now, select the option “Enable all macros” checkbox.

Enable all macros

  • Check the Trusted Locations Add the folder containing your file if it isn’t listed.

Fix 5- Repair Corrupted Workbook

Pick the inbuilt Open and Repair utility if this occurred due to a corrupted workbookThis tool can fix the corruption of Excel files for free and solve error messages.

To do so, follow the below steps:

  • Open Excel
  • Then, click File > Open option.
  • Choose the faulty file to repair it.
  • Select ‘Open’ >> ‘Open and Repair’ >> Repair option.

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Fix 6- Try Additional Resolutions

Last but not least, try other fixes like:

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  2. Open Excel in safe mode
  3. Contact the Microsoft Support team.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why Is Record Macro Disabled?

Record macros are disabled because they’re created with the Visual Basic code that could affect your PC if written or recorded with malicious intent.

How Do I Enable Macros in Excel?

You can enable macros in Excel by following the below steps:

  • Navigate to 'Security Warning'
  • Then, click on 'Enable Content' option >> 'Advanced Options. '
  • After this, select 'Enable content for this session’ >> OK.

How Do I Fix Macros Not Working?

You can fix the problem of macros not working by repairing the corrupt Excel document or correcting the trust center settings.

Can You Recover Deleted Macros in Excel?

Yes, you can recover deleted macros in Excel by using the Excel Recovery Tool.

Wrapping Up

So, this is all about how to get rid of unable to record macro in Excel MAC & Windows. I hope you are able to fix the error after following the solutions specified above. If not, feel free to use the MS Excel Repair Tool to make your workbook error-free.

For additional questions, visit our Repair MS Excel FB & Twitter.

Thanks for reading!



Priyanka is a content marketing expert. She writes tech blogs and has expertise in MS Office, Excel, and other tech subjects. Her distinctive art of presenting tech information in the easy-to-understand language is very impressive. When not writing, she loves unplanned travels.