That “Windows cannot find uninstall.exe” error? Yeah, it’s a real pain, especially when you want to get rid of stubborn apps. Basically, Windows is trying to call up the uninstaller, but for some reason, it can’t find the executable—maybe the file got deleted, corrupted, or it never installed properly. Sometimes uninstallers are named differently like “unins000.exe” or managed via.msi files, so don’t panic if you don’t see exactly “uninstall.exe” in the folder. When this error pops up, it usually means the uninstall process is shot, but don’t worry, there are ways around it. You can reinstall the program to restore the uninstall file, or go the more manual route—using third-party tools or deleting files and editing the registry. Now, let’s break down the methods you can try to clean up that annoying error and get rid of the app.
How to Uninstall When You Get the “Cannot Find uninstall.exe” Error
Reinstall the Program to Fix the Missing Uninstaller
Why this helps: restoring the original uninstaller file often makes Windows happy enough to run the uninstall process normally again. When the uninstall.exe or equivalent is missing or broken, reinstalling the app basically replaces that file. It’s a kinda weird, but effective fix if you have the original installer or can download it again.
When it applies: if you remember where you got the program from or can find its installer, and the app isn’t corrupted beyond repair, this method works pretty reliably.
What to expect: after reinstalling, the uninstaller should run smoothly, and you can remove the app as usual. Sometimes, the reinstall might fix other broken files or registry keys along the way.
Note: Be aware that sometimes on certain machines, the reinstall might not fix the problem immediately, and a reboot may be needed.
- Find the original installer, or download it from the official site if you don’t have it. If you lost it, check your downloads folder or look for the app’s website for an installer link.
- Double-click the installer (installer.exe, setup.exe, or similar) and run through the installation steps. Sometimes it’s just a matter of clicking Next several times.
- Once done, go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program, or open Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, find the program, and try uninstalling it again.
Use a Third-Party Uninstaller like Bulk Crap Uninstaller
Why it helps: these tools scan for leftover files and registry entries, even if the default uninstaller isn’t working. They’re pretty reliable for removing stubborn apps completely, especially when the usual uninstall process is broken because of missing files.
When to try this: if reinstalling doesn’t work, or you just want a cleaner way to rid yourself of the program, this can do the job.
What to expect: after running a third-party uninstaller, the app should be gone, and you shouldn’t see that pesky error again.
Fun fact: on some setups this can take a few minutes longer, but it’s usually worth it.
- Download Bulk Crap Uninstaller. It’s free and pretty straightforward.
- Extract the download with 7-Zip or WinRAR, then run BCUninstaller.exe from the folder.
- Right-click the problematic app in the list—if it shows up—and choose Uninstall.
- On the prompts, click Continue and then Begin Uninstallation. It’ll try to clean out all leftovers, even if the original uninstaller is dead.
Manually Delete Files and Registry Entries (For Power Users)
Why it helps: if nothing else works, manually deleting files gets rid of the app. Plus, cleaning the registry ensures no orphaned entries remain that could mess with the system or block future installs. Because Windows is sometimes overly cautious, this method is a bit invasive—and you’re playing with your system’s registry—so do it carefully.
When to use: if you’re comfortable with Windows’ registry editor and know which files belong to the app. Make sure to back up the registry first, just in case.
What to expect: it’s tedious, but you’ll have removed the program entirely. No leftover files or registry mess. Just remember, some apps might stagger their uninstall files, and it might take some digging to find the right registry keys.
- Open File Explorer, then head to the folder where the app was installed—likely C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86).
- Right-click the app’s folder and choose Delete. You might need admin rights—accept the prompt if it asks.
- Press the Win key, type Regedit, and hit Enter. Be cautious, it’s a powerful tool.
- Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall for 64-bit apps, or HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall for 32-bit apps on a 64-bit system.
- Scan the subfolders for a key with the app’s name—sometimes difficult, but if you find it, right-click and choose Delete.
- Close the registry editor. Restart your computer, and the app should be gone for good.