AutoCAD

Why AutoCAD Mac Keeps Crashing

Common Causes of AutoCAD Crashes on Mac

AutoCAD on Mac can be prone to crashes due to a variety of technical issues. Understanding these causes and taking corrective actions can enhance your experience and prevent unexpected shutdowns.

1. Damaged Settings Files

AutoCAD may crash if it encounters damaged settings files. These files affect how the program operates, and if AutoCAD is unable to modify them during shutdown, it can lead to instability.

Step to Resolve:

  • Uninstall AutoCAD and opt for a fresh installation. Refer to the official guide on how to repair or reinstall AutoCAD 2025 for detailed instructions.

2. Corrupt Drawing Files

Often, files may become corrupted, impacting the overall functionality of AutoCAD. A malfunction in the drawing files can trigger frequent crashes.

Step to Resolve:

  • Open the affected DWG file and navigate to the AutoCAD menu. Under Tools, select Drawing Utilities, then choose Recover. This tool can automatically attempt to fix any issues within the file.

3. Resource Limitations

Insufficient system resources can also cause AutoCAD to crash. If your Mac doesn’t have adequate RAM or storage, it may struggle to handle AutoCAD’s demands, especially with large files or complex tasks.

Step to Resolve:

  • Check the available disk space and RAM usage. Close any unnecessary applications running in the background to free up resources for AutoCAD.

Steps to Unfreeze AutoCAD on Mac

When AutoCAD becomes unresponsive, you can attempt to unfreeze it by following these steps:

  1. Restart the Mac: Begin by rebooting your computer.
  2. Hold Shift Key: As your Mac starts, hold down the Shift key. This initiates a disk check and can assist in clearing cache files that may be causing issues.

Clearing AutoCAD Cache on Mac

Clearing the cache can improve performance and resolve numerous issues. Follow these steps to clear the cache:

  1. Access the triple-dot menu button at the top-right.
  2. Select More Tools and then click Clear browsing data….
  3. Choose the time range from which you want to delete data.
  4. Make sure to check “Cached Images and Files”.
  5. Finally, click on Clear Browsing Data to complete the process.

General Troubleshooting for AutoCAD

If you’re facing persistent issues with AutoCAD, consider these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Uninstall Unnecessary Software: Remove any programs that are not essential to reduce background processes.
  2. Reset AutoCAD Settings: This can often rectify any configuration issues. Instructions for resetting AutoCAD to its default state can typically be found in the help documentation.
  3. Look for Software Updates: Outdated software versions can lead to instability. Ensure AutoCAD 2025 and any plugins or add-ons are up to date.

Improving Performance of AutoCAD on Mac

To enhance the performance of AutoCAD, keep these points in mind:

  1. Upgrade Your Hardware: Consider increasing RAM or using a faster hard drive (SSD) for optimal performance.
  2. Regularly Clean Disk Space: Removing unnecessary files can help maintain system efficiency.
  3. Review Network Conditions: If using cloud features, ensure your internet connection is stable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I tell if my AutoCAD installation is corrupted?
A1: You may notice unusual behavior, such as error messages, crashes, or hanging during operations that were previously smooth.

Q2: Can AutoCAD be made to run faster on older Mac systems?
A2: Yes, ensure you have the latest updates, and consider closing all other applications to free up system resources. Upgrading hardware, if possible, can also help.

Q3: What should I do if AutoCAD crashes while saving a file?
A3: First, ensure ample storage space is available on your disk. If the issue persists, try saving files in a different format or location to see if the problem is related to specific files.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.