“It installs, then crashes when I search for a car model,” he groaned. “I need this for a BMW E46 on the lift tomorrow.”

We ran the program as administrator after compatibility settings. Then went to Settings → Database Path and pointed it to the folder where AUTODATA.MDB actually lived (inside the CD or copied to C:\AutoData\Data ). Step 5: The Final Test After a reboot, Marco launched AutoData 3.40. The interface looked a bit small (high DPI screens), but it worked. He searched for BMW 3 Series (E46) 2001 — wiring diagrams, torque specs, everything loaded.

If you’re stuck with the same error, try the steps above. And remember — even old software can run on new systems with a little patience and the right compatibility hacks.