The MS Access ODBC call failed 3146 error displays as a result of a faulty network connection. It occurs within the Access database when setting up the associated database on an additional PC. This runtime error 3146 typically stipulates that there was a problem with an ODBC connection or an SQL query being performed. However, the most important thing is how to fix it. (Below you can see the complete error message).
Well, if you are getting this error, don’t fret. In this guide, I have described the possible causes and a few workarounds to deal with ODBC – call failed. (Error 3146). Also, I have mentioned the best Access Repair Tool to fix this error by repairing the database corruption.
Free MS Access Database Repair Tool
Repair corrupt MDB and ACCDB database files and recover deleted database tables, queries, indexes and records easily. Try Now!
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Quick Fixes:
- Check ODBC DSN Configuration
- Remove ODBC 1.x Driver Manager
- Verify the Database Connection
- Check Permissions
- Ensure to Update the MS Access
- Repairing the Corrupt Database Using Compact & Repair
- Automated Solution: Fix Access Database Corruption
What is Error 3146 On ODBC Call Failed Run Time Access?
When Microsoft Access tries to enter the SQL Server 2000 database with the help of the ODBC connection, it displays an Error 3146- ODBC Call Failed. The database has been set as a source of data for the system with the driver of SQL Server. Hence, on launching the .mdb application database could be attached and results are fetched. But while populating data on the combo box, it shows this error.
On the other hand, we can say, that the SQL server cannot return any number for a statement due to performing a wrong query, it can display this error. However, this error message triggers due to various reasons, such as:
- Invalid Data Source Name (DSN
- Due to Incorrect Connection String or Network Issues
- Database Server Downtime
- Permission Issues
- Issues with SQL Syntax
- ODBC Driver Issues
- Server Configuration.
Fixes To Resolve MS Access ODBC Call Failed 3146 Error
Follow the below step-wise methods carefully to troubleshoot error 3146 ODBC call failed.
Method 1- Check ODBC DSN Configuration
The very first solution that you have to try to tackle the situation is to check if ODBC Data Source Name (DSN) is properly configured. To verify this, you have to:
- Type Control Panel in the search box & open the first result.
- Then, go to “Windows Tools” >> “ODBC Data Sources“.
- Now, you will see the DNS list >> click on DSN that you need to test.
- Next, click on “Configure” option to view the configurations for the DSN.
- After that, click on “Test Connection” button to complete the process.
Also Read: [ODBC Microsoft Access Driver] Cannot Update. Database Or Object Is Read-Only Error
Method 2- Remove ODBC 1.x Driver Manager
Another way to fix this issue it is advised to remove the ODBC 1.x Driver Manager (Odbc.dll) and replace it with ODBC 2.x Driver Manager (Odbc.dll) in the primary path.
Method 3- Verify the Database Connection
Whenever the running database server faces downtime, you’ll encounter various issues, including the ODBC call failed 3146 error. In such a situation, you will have to ensure that the target SQL server is running & accessible from a device where Microsoft Access is installed.
Method 4- Check Permissions
Sometimes, it happens that the lack of necessary permissions to access the external database can lead to runtime error 3146. In that case, you have to ensure that the user account that is used by Microsoft Access has the required permissions to access the database, this includes both read & write permissions.
Method 5- Ensure to Update the MS Access
Many users have reported that they have received ODBC -call failed error in Access due to running an outdated version of Access application. Therefore, ensure that your Microsoft Access is up to date. Microsoft occasionally releases updates that might include bug fixes & improvements.
Also Read: Access Run Time Error 3151 ODBC Connection Failed
Method 6- Fix MS Access ODBC Call Failed 3146 Error by Repairing the Corrupt Database
Sometimes, the ODBC call failed 3146 error in Microsoft Access occurs due to database corruption. In such a case, you can use Access’s Compact & Repair tool to repair it.
Here are the complete steps:
- Open the Access application.
- Go to the File >> Info.
- Find & click on the Compact & Repair Database option.
Automated Solution: Fix Access Database Corruption
If all the above-mentioned solutions do not help to fix run time error 3146 ODBC call failed timeout expired error, I would suggest opting for a third-party tool that solves any sort of MS Access-related error that has occurred due to database corruption. The best available tool for this purpose is MS Access Repair and Recovery Tool.
This software not only fixes errors but also fixes the .mdb files or .acccdb files and recovers the data from your corrupted MS Access database. You can also restore the indexes, tables, queries, and relations very easily by using this tool.
* 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.
Steps To Fix MS Access Error 3146
Also Read: Resolve Access 1919 – Configuring ODBC Data Source Error
Wrap Up
By following the fixes listed above, you can surely resolve MS Access error 3146: Run-time 3146 ODBC Call Failed. Do try all the solutions and let us know whether those solutions worked for you or not.
Besides, if you are facing any other issue in your access database, feel free to ask your queries on our social accounts like Twitter.
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.
- 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.