Many organizations rely on the Microsoft Access application for various purposes. Meanwhile handling this Access software, any error or obstacle can be bothersome. Access “the query cannot be completed either the size of the query result is larger than the maximum” is one such warning message that is often encountered by users when trying to perform a query that is too complex.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the common reasons and other significant information including working fixes to address 3183 error successfully.
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What Does Microsoft Access Query Cannot Be Completed Either the Size Error Mean?
This error message typically occurs in MS Access when running a VBA code or attempting to perform a query that is too complex. It can also appear when the query size is larger than the maximum size of the database (2 GB) or when importing/exporting a DB file to other databases like Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, or PostgreSQL.
When the Access runtime error 3183 pops up, it simply means that you can’t perform any operations using VBA or queries within the database.
Why This Error Occurs?
Before employing the fixes to address this problem, it is important to identify the roots for better resolution.
- Incorrect macro settings within Access.
- Damaged database file.
- When queries/macros get corrupted.
- Using complex queries.
- Insufficient permissions to access a DB.
- Wrong or missing field names.
How to Fix Access Error “The Query Cannot Be Completed Either the Size”? Top of Form
Let’s follow the below step-by-step methods to address the size limitations & successfully execute your query within Microsoft Access.
Way 1- Verify Queries within VBA Code
Since the error “Microsoft Access query cannot be completed either the size” occurs when running a complex VBA code, so, it is vital to verify the statements, syntax of the queries, and query reference fields. If there are any issues found, try to fix them.
Also Read: Microsoft Access Can’t Append All the Records in The Append Query- Don’t Skip!
Way 2- Check the Size of the Database
If your database file exceeds the 2 GB limit of the file size and throws this error, it is essential to manage the large-size DB file to fix this problem. Similarly, check and ensure that the disk in which you have stored your database has sufficient memory.
Way 3- Correct the Access Macro Settings
As already mentioned in the causes section, incorrect Macro settings within the Access database can trigger error 3183. Therefore, consider changing these settings to overcome this situation.
Here are the complete steps to do so:
- Open the faulty Access database file.
- Navigate to File > Options >> Trust Center.
- Next, click on the Trust Center Settings >> Macro Settings.
- Then, you have to check all the options under the Macro Settings.
- Choose the option “Enable all macros” >> click OK.
After completion of these steps, check if the error is solved or not.
Way 4- Import the Tables into a New Database
Another workable solution that can assist you in tackling the query cannot be completed either the size of the query result is larger than the maximum error is to create a new Access database and import all the tables from the old database into it. This method will eventually solve this problem and let you access the seamless database experience.
To know the complete steps to import the data from the old database to the new one, Click Here.
Way 5- Repair Corrupt Database File
Database file corruption can also lead to this peculiar runtime error message. In such a case, consider using the Access built-in Compact and Repair utility to repair the corrupted database file.
Follow the below steps to run this tool:
- Ensure to close all the database files.
- Launch Access software.
- On Templates page, you have to click on the Blank Database.
- Go to the File >> select Close.
- Select the Database Tools then Compact and Repair Database option.
- Under “Database to Compact from” window, select the DB file you wish to compact & repair.
- Finally, click on Compact. A new compacted and repaired file will be saved at the same location where the original file was stored.
In case, the compact and repair tool fails to work, you should immediately use the sophisticated Access Repair Tool to get your damaged database fixed. This software will not only fix the database corruption but also recover all the components like records, tables, macros, modules, queries, etc. from the corrupted file.
* By clicking the Download button above and installing Stellar Repair for Access (14.8 MB), I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the End User License Agreement and Privacy Policy of this site.
Way 6- Get The Required Permission to Fix the Query Cannot Be Completed Either the Size
Sometimes, the lack of necessary permissions to access the folder in which a database file is saved can prevent you from running the VBA or macro. Consequently, ensure that you have full authorization to read & write the folder and access the DB file.
To know how to get the required permission to access the file, Click Here.
Way 7- Contact the Microsoft Support Team
If all the above DIY fixes fail to solve this warning message, contacting the Microsoft support team for assistance is recommended.
Related FAQs:
What Is the Size Limit for Access Query?
2 Gigabytes (GB) is the maximum file size limit for a single file.
How Do I Change the Size of a Field in Access Query?
To change the size of a field in an Access database query, you have to:
- Go to the Navigation Pane >> right-click on the table that holds the field you need to change.
- Next, click on the Design View.
- In a table design grid, choose the field for which you need to change the size of a field.
- Under the Field Properties pane, go to General tab and enter a new field size under Field Size property.
What Are the Four Types of Queries?
The four types of queries are append queries, update queries, delete queries, and make-table queries.
How Do I Get Around My 2GB Access Limit?
You can get around a 2-gigabyte size limit by linking to tables in other Access databases.
Also Read: Access Database Engine Cannot Find the Input Table or Query (Error 3078)
Time to Conclude
So, this is all about how to fix the Microsoft Access query cannot be completed either the size error. I hope the solutions stated above will surely help you in dealing with it.
In case, you’re facing this hurdle due to Access database corruption, you must try Compact and Repair or automatic Access Repair Software.
In addition, for further queries related to this blog, ask us on FACEBOOK or TWITTER.
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- Download Stellar Repair for Access rated Great on Cnet (download starts on this page).
- Click Browse and Search option to locate corrupt Access database.
- Click Repair button to repair & preview the database objects.
Pearson Willey
Pearson Willey is a website content writer and long-form content planner. Besides this, he is also an avid reader. Thus he knows very well how to write an engaging content for readers. Writing is like a growing edge for him. He loves exploring his knowledge on MS Access & sharing tech blogs.