VBA & Macro Problems

How to Fix Excel error140200_01.xml When Saving Macro Files

Ayan Masood Sep 28, 2026 871 views

Question details

The user needs to fix an error named 'error140200_01.xml' that appears when attempting to save a macro-enabled Excel workbook, preventing the file from being successfully saved.

How to Fix Excel error140200_01.xml When Saving Macro Files

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Saving an edited workbook that contains embedded VBA macros.
Observed behavior: Excel allows the user to edit the file but displays the error140200_01.xml message and fails during the saving process, indicating possible corruption in the workbook or VBA project.

Before you start

Make a copy of your current problematic workbook and any older versions you possess before attempting recovery steps to prevent accidental data loss.

Solution 1Recommended

Rebuild the Workbook and Re-import VBA Modules

Transferring your data and exporting your macros into a brand-new workbook can bypass internal XML corruption.

When an Excel file suffers from internal XML structure damage, it often blocks the save process even if the file is readable. Building a new file from scratch is the most reliable way to permanently remove the corruption.

Open the VBA Editor

While your corrupted file is open, press Alt + F11 to launch the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) Editor.

Export VBA Modules

In the Project Explorer pane on the left, right-click each module, class, or user form, select 'Export File', and save them to a folder on your computer.

Transfer Worksheet Data

Create a new, blank Excel workbook. Select the data in your corrupted file's worksheets, copy it, and paste it into the new workbook.

Import Macros into the New File

In the new workbook, press Alt + F11 to open the VBA Editor, right-click the new project, select 'Import File', and choose the modules you exported earlier.

Save the New Workbook

Click 'File' > 'Save As' and ensure you select 'Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (*.xlsm)' from the format dropdown. Save the file to verify the error is gone.

Rebuild the Workbook and Re-import VBA Modules

Re-creating damaged functions: If a specific VBA module fails to export or triggers an error upon import, that module is likely the source of the corruption and will need to be recreated manually.

Solution 2

Restore an Earlier Version of the Workbook

If rebuilding the workbook is not feasible, restoring from a backup or version history is the fastest way to regain a functional file.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Macro-Enabled Spreadsheets

If Microsoft Excel continues to struggle with file corruption and saving errors, WPS Office provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative. It supports VBA macros and flawlessly handles .xlsm formats, offering a stable environment for your complex data needs.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package.
2. Install and Launch: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software, then open WPS Spreadsheet.
3. Open Your Macro File: Use the 'Open' menu to locate and launch your existing .xlsm file to continue working smoothly with your VBA projects.

Completely free and lightweight Office suiteSeamless format compatibility with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xlsm, .csv)Built-in VBA editor for running and managing macros without crashesFamiliar ribbon interface for a zero-learning-curve transition

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly causes the error140200_01.xml issue in Excel?

This error is typically triggered by structural corruption within the underlying XML code of the Excel file, often specifically related to the embedded VBA project, activeX controls, or damaged custom macros.

Can I recover my VBA code if the file refuses to save?

Yes, as long as the file is open and readable, you can access the VBA editor by pressing Alt + F11, right-click your modules, and choose 'Export File' to save your code locally before the workbook closes.

Does Excel's AutoRecover feature protect against this error?

AutoRecover might save a recent snapshot of your file, but if the corruption happened prior to the AutoRecover save, the recovered file will likely still exhibit the save error. It is better to rely on manual, incremental backups.

Excel & Data Problems