Fix Common Garry's Mod Problems
Fixes for the most common Garry's Mod problems: missing textures, crashes, Steam errors, servers you can't join, Workshop downloads, Lua errors and mic.
Something broken in Garry's Mod? Pick the problem below. Each guide starts with the fix that works most often.
Missing Textures and ERROR Models
Purple and black checkers, red ERROR signs, mounting Counter-Strike: Source and server content.
Crashing
Crashes on startup, when joining a server or mid-game, out of memory errors and crash logs.
Game Won't Launch
Stuck as running, missing executable, disk write error, content file locked and black screens.
Steamworks API and No SteamUser Errors
Failed to initialize Steamworks API, No SteamUser, update and Steam authentication errors.
Can't Connect to a Server
Older version of the game, connection timed out, missing map and Steam validation errors.
Workshop Addons Not Downloading
Stuck at 0 bytes, not subscribing, redownloading every launch or still loading after you unsubscribe.
Lua Errors
What script errors mean, clientside or serverside, and how to find the addon causing them.
Black Screen
Black screen on launch, after alt-tab or after playing a while.
Microphone Not Working
Voice chat settings, Windows microphone privacy and your push to talk key.
Time Achievements Not Unlocking
Why One Day, One Week, Marathon and Addict don't unlock, and how to check progress.
For FPS and lag, see the performance guide. For more memory and fewer crashes on big servers, switch to 64-bit.
How to Save in Garry's Mod: Saves and Dupes
Save and load your Garry's Mod game from the spawn menu, copy builds with the Duplicator or Advanced Duplicator 2, and find where save files are stored.
Fix Missing Textures and ERROR Models in Garry's Mod
Fix purple and black checkers and red ERROR models in Garry's Mod. Mount Counter-Strike: Source, get the server's content and verify your game files.