An Unknown Error Has Occurred 0X80040600 [Problem & Solution]

Got Error while working on MS Outlook which says “An Unknown Error has occurred 0X80040600”? You can resolve the error by following this simple how to guide. This post explains the problem cause, effects and step by step solution of error code 0X80040600 encountered in Microsoft Outlook 2013/2010/2007/2003 or previous versions.

Problem Scenario

While working (reading, sending, receiving or deleting message) on MS Outlook in Microsoft Windows operating system you encounter a pop message which says: An Unknown Error has occurred 0X80040600.

Reason behind the Error Code 0X80040600

There can be multiple reasons behind this problem, but the most common one is corruption of PST file. In order to fix the issue keep reading.

Recommended Solution from Microsoft

The recommended solution for the above error is to try Microsoft Inbox Repair Tool (scanpst.exe). How to repair pst file using scanpst.exe tool? Perform these steps:

Step 1: First of all close Outlook in order to repair PST file.

Step 2: Locate scanpst.exe tool in your system. The default location for scanpst.exe tool is shown below:

Step 3: Browse PST File

Step 4: Click Start to Repair PST file.

Step 5: Hopefully you get the following Message

What happens if Scanpst.exe refuses to repair pst file?

There may be possibility that scanpst.exe utility won’t work on your PST. There are numerous reasons behind this stated below:

1. If you are using older version of Outlook and your PST file in stored in ANSI format. Also the size of your PST exceeds the limit of 2 GB then the inbox repair tool (scanpst.exe) fails to repair your corrupt or damaged PST.
2. PST file is highly damaged and unrecoverable.
3. You can’t locate the pst file in your system. Etc.

What to do if Inbox repair tool failed?

The only solution left after Microsoft Inbox failed is to use Recover Outlook to overcome the unknown error code 0X80040600 and other PST file issue (over-sized, dismounted, Corrupt or unhealthy).