The MSVCP140D.dll missing error is a Windows issue that commonly appears when launching certain programs, especially development tools or applications built in debug mode. When this DLL file cannot be found or is damaged, Windows may display messages such as: "MSVCP140D.dll is missing", "This program can't start because MSVCP140D.dll is missing"or "Unable to load MSVCP140D.dll." Once this error occurs, the affected application usually fails to start. In this guide, we'll explain what MSVCP140D.dll does, why the error happens, and how to fix it using safe and proven methods.
Why Does the MSVCP140D.dll Error Occur?
This problem usually happens for one or more of the following reasons:
The application was compiled in debug mode
Microsoft Visual Studio is not installed or is incomplete
The DLL file was deleted or corrupted
An unofficial, test, or modified version of the software was installed
Malware or system corruption damaged runtime files
Windows registry or system components are unstable
Method 1: Install or Repair Microsoft Visual Studio
Installing Microsoft Visual Studio is a reliable way to obtain MSVCP140D.dll.
Download Visual Studio from Microsoft's official website
Launch the installer
Select Desktop development with C++
Complete the installation or choose Repair
Restart your computer to ensures all required debug libraries are installed correctly.
Method 2: Reinstall the Affected Program
If the error appears in only one application, reinstalling it may help.
Uninstall the program
Restart your PC
Download the official release version
Reinstall the software
Avoid debug, beta, or unofficial builds unless you are using a development environment.
Method 3: Repair Windows System Files
Corrupted system files can also contribute to DLL-related issues.
Run System File Checker:
Open Command Prompt as Administrator
Enter:
sfc /scannow
Wait for the scan to finish
Restart your PC
Use DISM if needed:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
These tools help restore damaged Windows components.
Method 4: Repair MSVCP140D.dll Automatically
If the MSVCP140D.dll error continues even after trying basic solutions, it may be caused by deeper system-level problems, such as corrupted DLL references, damaged runtime dependencies, or unstable registry entries. In this situation, using a dedicated repair tool like PcGoGo DLL Fixer can help automatically detect and restore missing or broken DLL files—including MSVCP140D.dll—and resolve related system issues.
Step 1: Download and Install PcGoGo DLL Fixer
Click the Download button to get the installer
Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation
Step 2: Run a Full System Scan
Launch PcGoGo DLL Fixer
Click Scan to allow the tool to check your system for missing, corrupted, or incorrectly registered DLL files and runtime dependencies
Step 3: Repair MSVCP140D.dll
Once the scan is finished, locate MSVCP140D.dll (or related runtime errors) in the scan results
Click Repair Now
The tool will automatically download and restore the correct version of the file to the appropriate system directory
Step 4: Restart Your PC
Restart your computer to apply the repairs
After rebooting, launch the affected program again to confirm that the MSVCP140D.dll error has been resolved
This method is especially helpful when manual fixes are ineffective or when underlying system corruption prevents the DLL from being restored properly
Method 5: Mcan Your System for Malware
Malicious software can damage or remove DLL files.
Open Windows Security
Go to Virus & threat protection
Run a Full Scan
Remove any detected threats
Restart your system and recheck the issue
Tips to Avoid MSVCP140D.dll Errors in the Future
Do not run debug software on non-developer systems
Install programs only from trusted sources
Keep Windows and development tools updated
Use reliable antivirus protection
Create regular system backups
Final Thoughts
The MSVCP140D.dll missing error is usually a sign that a program was built for debugging rather than normal use. Installing Microsoft Visual Studio or switching to a proper release version of the software will resolve the issue in most cases. For users seeking a faster solution, automated repair tools can also help restore missing dependencies. By following the steps in this guide, you can fix the error safely and ensure your applications run smoothly.
