How to Repair a Outlook PST File

By Chad Davis

Correct problems with Microsoft Outlook by repairing your Microsoft Outlook Data File — known as a PST file. If you’re having problems opening or accessing your Outlook data, then you can scan your PST file for errors using the Inbox Repair Tool. The Inbox Repair Tool, named Scanpst.exe, is located in your Outlook’s program files folder and can be launched through File Explorer. The Inbox Repair Tool scans your Outlook PST file and then prompts you to repair the data, if any problems were identified.

Microsoft Outlook Inbox Repair Tool

Exit Outlook. Press “Windows-E” to open File Explorer and then navigate to “C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office 15\” for a 32-bit version or “C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office 15\” for 64-bit. Double-click “scanpst.exe. Click the “Browse…” button and then select the PST file you wish to repair. The default PST locations are “C:\Users\\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook” or ” “C:\Users\\Roaming\Local\Microsoft\Outlook” where is replaced by your Windows username. Click the “Start” button to scan your PST file. If the Inbox Repair Tool finds errors in your PST file, then you will be prompted to repair the file. Click the “Repair” button to repair your PST file.