Fix: “Code Interpreter Session Expired” Error in ChatGPT

When you click on any downloadable link or file in ChatGPT chat, you may encounter the error “Code interpreter session expired”. This error prevents you from downloading the file even though the chat remains open. It happens because the temporary sandboxed environment used to store files has either timed out or been terminated. In simple terms, the file no longer exists on the server.

This usually happens when:

• The built-in session timeout period is reached (often after about an hour of inactivity).
• The browser tab has remained in the background for too long, causing the environment to pause.
• Download links expire after the file is removed from temporary storage.
• OpenAI’s backend performs an automatic reset.

This guide walks you through several reliable methods to fix the error and regain access to your files.

1. Ask ChatGPT to Regenerate It

The simplest and fastest solution is to regenerate the file. Doing this creates a new active session and recreates the downloadable file instantly.

1. Click Regenerate or type “regenerate it” in the chat to start a new session and rebuild the file.
2. If the file was created through multiple steps, re-enter the same instructions. Regeneration may not fully restore complex outputs without the original context.
   

2. Start a Fresh Chat

If regenerating doesn’t work, starting a new chat can help clear out hidden errors in the current session. A clean environment often fixes the problem.

1. Click New Chat in ChatGPT.
2. Paste your saved prompt or upload the same file again.
3. Run the task to generate a fresh downloadable file.

3. Download Immediately After File Generation

The environment is temporary, which means files can disappear if not downloaded quickly. Downloading the file right away prevents the session from timing out.

• As soon as the file appears, click the download icon immediately.
• Saving it locally guarantees that you won’t lose access later.

4. Reduce the Workload

Large or complex tasks can cause sessions to expire more quickly. Keeping the workload lighter helps maintain session stability for a longer period.

1. Break bigger tasks into smaller, more manageable parts.
2. Upload smaller files whenever possible.
3. Run one part at a time instead of executing everything in a single step.