Fix: Run-time Error ‘3048’: Cannot Open Any More Databases

The “Run-time error ‘3048’: Cannot open any more databases” occurs in Microsoft Access when the application has reached its limit of opened database connections. Microsoft Access has a limit on the number of internal resources it uses for managing open databases and queries. 

Furthermore, this error may occur due to various other reasons including issues with MS Office updates, corrupted databases, databases being stored at untrusted locations, memory issues, unstable internet connections, and even incompatible programs. Here are a few methods you can try to solve this error code.

1. Close Unused Database Connections

The most common cause of this error is exceeding the limit of open databases at the same time, such as record sets, queries, forms, etc. Check if there are any open queries, forms, or record sets that you’re not using. If they exist, make sure to close these record sets and database connections once you’re done with them and have no further use for them.

2. Use the Built-In Compact and Repair Tool

If you have a database file that is corrupted, you can use the built-in Compact and Repair tool in Microsoft Access to fix it. This tool also helps reduce database bloat and fixes common issues caused by closing the database improperly.

1. Go to Database Tools.
2. Select Compact and Repair Tool.

3. Update Microsoft Access

This error can also be caused by a bug in some versions of Microsoft Access. Ensure that you’re using the latest version of Microsoft Access.

1. Go to File.
2. Select Account.
3. Then, select Update Options.
4. Check if an update is available and install it.

4. Repair or Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

The error code 3048 can also be caused by an issue with Microsoft Visual C++ packages. You can try repairing or reinstalling these packages through Apps & Features in Windows.

Repair Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

1. Open Control Panel.
2. Go to Programs > Programs and Features.
   
3. Locate Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables.
   
4. Select the version of Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable that you want to repair.
5. Click on Change or Uninstall/Change.
   
6. Click Repair on the window that appears.
   
7. If you have multiple versions of the Visual C++ Redistributables installed, repeat the repair process for each one.
8. Lastly, restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

1. Once again, open Control Panel.
2. Go to Programs > Programs and Features.
   
3. Select each Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables version and click Uninstall.
   
4. Visit the official Microsoft download page for Visual C++ Redistributables.
5. Download the redistributables for the versions you need.
6. Run the download files and follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.
7. Lastly, restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

5. Stop Conflicting Programs

Another reason you could be facing this error is a program running in the background that is conflicting with Microsoft Access. To rule this out, use the Task Manager to stop unnecessary programs that might be using resources or conflicting with your database connections.

1. Open Task Manager.
2. Right-click on the program that you think may be causing a conflict.
   

If after trying everything, you’re still facing the error code, try contacting Microsoft’s official support.