Fixing “Microsoft Access Could Not Read Definitions No Read Definitions Permission for Table or Query” Error!

Stuck with the error message “Microsoft Access could not read definitions no read definitions permission for table or query“? Well, this error often appears when system files are corrupt or the database structure becomes unstable. It can prevent you from accessing your database properly & may disrupt your workflow.

Screenshot of the error:

Understanding the core reasons behind this error helps you restore your database fast. This guide provides effective solutions to solve this warning and prevent it from returning.

What Causes MS Access Could Not Read Definitions Error?

Well, there are countless roots for triggering this runtime error. Here I have mentioned the most common causes:

1. Corrupted linked tables.
2. Database file corruption.
3. Insufficient permissions to access the DB file.
4. Due to Missing references.
5. The Access file is saved in an untrusted folder.
6. Version compatibility issues.

Now, it’s time to know whether it is possible to solve this error message or not.

Is It Possible to Fix ‘Microsoft Access Could Not Read Definitions’ Error Without Any Technical Help?

Yes, of course, it is possible to solve this error without any technical support. However, you can apply all the fixes stated in the next section to troubleshoot it.

But before implementing the solutions, it is recommended to create a proper backup to avoid any data deletion.

Methods to Fix Access Could Not Read Definitions No Read Definitions Permission for Table or Query Error

Consider following the below tricks to overcome this error.

Method 1- Check the File Path & Name

The very initial step that you should take is to check the DB file name and file path. Any conflicts in a file name/path typos can trigger could not read definition issues. Therefore, ensure both are correct for a seamless database experience.

Method 2- Allow the Required File Permissions

Insufficient permissions to access the file is the foremost reason for prompting this message. By checking and allowing the necessary file permissions, you can tackle this situation fruitfully.

Here’s how you can do so:

• Locate the faulty database file.
• Then, right-click on it to choose the Properties>> Security tab.

• Next, check the permissions under the Group or user names 
• To modify the permissions, click on Edit and adjust the permissions accordingly.
• Finally, click Apply >> OK to save all the changes.

Method 3- Repair the Corrupted Linked Tables

Another possible reason for the occurrence of MS Access could not read definitions error is corrupted linked tables. If the problem is with a linked table, try to relink it.

To do so, follow these instructions carefully:

• Open Access and click on “External Data” tab.
• After this, click on the “Linked Table Manager.”
• Choose the table that is triggering the error >> click “Relink.”
• Select the accurate data source to relink a table.

This method should repair the connection & allow Access to read the table definitions correctly.

Method 4- Check for Missing References in Database

As already mentioned above, missing references can even trigger this warning message and break Access objects. In such a case, it is vital to check for missing references in the database.

Here’s how you can do so:

Step 1- Open the Access >> open VBA Editor by using ALT + F11.

Step 2- Go to the Tools > References.

Step 3- Look for any “Missing” items.

Step 4- Now, uncheck them & click OK.

As soon as you complete the steps, you can access your file easily.

Method 5- Move the File to Trusted Location

If your Access database file is saved in an untrusted folder, it can cause this error. However, you can tackle this situation by moving the database file to a trusted location.

Here is how you can do this:

• Open Access, navigate to File menu >> Options>> Trust Center.
• After this, click Trust Center Settings>> Trusted Locations.

• In the Trusted Locations segment, check the “Allow Trusted Locations on my network (not recommended)” box to set up a network location.
• Next, click on the Add New location >> pick the chosen path in MS Office Trusted Location >> hit OK.

• Lastly, shift the file to a recently added location.

Method 6- Fix MS Access File Corruption

In most of cases, Access database corruption triggers the runtime errors including no read definitions permission for table or query error. To repair a damaged database, you can try the Compact and Repair Database utility in Access:

• Open the Access >> go to the Database Tools.
• Select the Compact and Repair Database.

• Next, choose the database file that you need to fix.
• Follow the onscreen instructions until the process gets over.

If Compact & Repair fails, it is worth trying the most reliable Access Repair Software. This tool has the ability to repair the severely corrupted & damaged database file, along with recovering all the components saved within it.

* 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.

Method 7- Import Objects into a New Blank Database

Try importing your objects to a new database. Many users have found this method useful in their cases. So, you can also try this trick and tackle this situation effectively.

• Create a new blank database.
• Next, click on the External Data > Import Access Database.

• Choose your old DB file.
• Now, import all tables, queries, forms, and modules.

This process removes damaged definitions and restores functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why Can’t I Open MS Access?

You might be unable to open your Access database due to a permissions issue, anywhere from a GUID to the Retail key

How Do I Open an Access Database in Read Only Mode?

For this, click on the arrow next to an Open button >> click the Open Read-Only to launch the Access database for read-only so that you can only view, but not edit it.

How to Stop Database Corruption?

To stop the database corruption, follow the below tips:

1. Backup Database.
2. Regular Updates and Optimizing Queries.
3. Prevent Abrupt Shutdown.
4. Monitor Database Space.

How to Change Access File from Read Only?

To change the Access file from read only, follow these steps:

1. Locate the DB file >> right-click on it.
2. Remove a checkmark by a Read Only item in a specific file’s Properties dialog box.
3. Click OK.

Wrapping Up

The “Access could not read definitions no read definitions permission for table or query” error can interrupt vital tasks. Still, you can troubleshoot it using simple steps.

However, you can try fixing this error by compacting the database, checking references, and trying other handful of solutions declared in this blog. In case the aforesaid methods fail, seek proficient help from the Microsoft Support Team.

Still having issues? Fix them with this Access repair tool:

This software repairs & restores all ACCDB/MDB objects including tables, reports, queries, records, forms, and indexes along with modules, macros, and other stuffs effectively.

1. Download Stellar Repair for Access rated Great on Cnet (download starts on this page).
2. Click Browse and Search option to locate corrupt Access database.
3. 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.