Fix SKYUI error code 5

Lila William
5 min readOct 1, 2019

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SKYUI is an PC-friendly UI mod for Skyrim which is an action role-playing video game. It has many advanced features and was developed by Bethesda Game Studios. The good thing with it is that all its advancements and improvements easily integrate with the original interface.

Its version 5 has better crafting, enchanting, alchemy and smithing menus with many other advancements with a feature rich panel that enhance full-text search, sorting and extended data columns. But it is not completely fault free, the users face issues like SKYUI error code 5 which is a common error and could be solved easily. The common symptom of this error is whenever the user is playing and open up favorites, spells or inventory, they got an error message saying SKYUI error 5 with incompatible items. This problem can be resolved by a fresh install.

The common reason of SKYUI Error Code 5 is a file overriding SKYUI. If the user has installed map/inventory mods like QD Inventory SSE, Pastel Map Markers etc. he should check the warning in MCM otherwise check Data/Interface folder to find any loose files. Either delete those files or find out which mod has installed them. Also, disabling the favorites menu in the mod manager section from the settings will work out.

SKYUI is one of the most popular mods for The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, enhancing the game’s user interface with a more streamlined and modern design. However, like any mod, SKYUI can sometimes encounter errors that disrupt the gaming experience. One such issue is Error Code 5, which typically occurs when there’s a problem with the mod’s configuration or compatibility with other mods or scripts. Understanding the causes of this error and how to fix it is essential for maintaining a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience.

Causes of SKYUI Error Code 5

Error Code 5 usually arises due to the following reasons:

  1. Script Mismatch: SKYUI relies heavily on scripts to function correctly. If there’s a mismatch or conflict between scripts, particularly with other mods, this error may appear.
  2. Outdated SKYUI Version: If you’re using an outdated version of SKYUI, it might not be fully compatible with your current version of Skyrim or other installed mods.
  3. Conflicts with Other Mods: Certain mods that alter the user interface or interact with the same scripts as SKYUI can cause conflicts, leading to Error Code 5.
  4. Load Order Issues: The load order of mods in Skyrim is crucial. If SKYUI is not loaded in the correct order relative to other mods, it can cause errors.
  5. Missing or Corrupted Files: Missing, corrupted, or improperly installed files related to SKYUI can trigger this error.
  6. Incompatible Skyrim Script Extender (SKSE): SKYUI requires SKSE to function. If SKSE is outdated or improperly installed, SKYUI will not work correctly, leading to Error Code 5.

Fixing SKYUI Error Code 5

Here’s how you can address and resolve SKYUI Error Code 5:

1. Update SKYUI and Skyrim

Ensuring that both SKYUI and Skyrim are up to date is the first step in resolving Error Code 5:

  • Update SKYUI: Download the latest version of SKYUI from a trusted source like Nexus Mods. Ensure that the version you download is compatible with your version of Skyrim (either the original Skyrim or the Special Edition).
  • Update Skyrim: Make sure that your game is fully updated through Steam or your respective platform. An outdated version of Skyrim can cause compatibility issues with SKYUI.

2. Check and Update SKSE

SKYUI requires SKSE (Skyrim Script Extender) to function correctly. An outdated or improperly installed SKSE can lead to Error Code 5:

  • Download the Latest SKSE: Visit the official SKSE website and download the latest version that matches your version of Skyrim (original or Special Edition).
  • Proper Installation: Follow the installation instructions carefully, ensuring that all files are placed in the correct directories. Incorrect installation is a common cause of errors.
  • Check SKSE Version: Ensure that the version of SKSE you are using is compatible with your game and the version of SKYUI you have installed.

Additional read: baldurs gate 3 error code 516

3. Adjust Mod Load Orde

Mod load order is critical in Skyrim, and an incorrect load order can cause SKYUI to malfunction:

  • Use a Mod Manager: Use a mod manager like Mod Organizer 2 or Vortex, which can help you organize your mods correctly and resolve conflicts automatically.
  • Load SKYUI Early: Ensure that SKYUI is loaded before mods that alter the user interface or interact with game scripts. This placement reduces the likelihood of conflicts.
  • Check for Conflicts: Use tools like LOOT (Load Order Optimization Tool) to automatically sort your load order and identify any potential conflicts.

4. Resolve Mod Conflicts

Mods that alter the same aspects of the game as SKYUI can cause conflicts:

  • Identify Conflicting Mods: Disable mods one by one to see if the error resolves. If disabling a particular mod fixes the issue, that mod is likely conflicting with SKYUI.
  • Patch or Replace Mods: Look for patches that allow SKYUI to work with other mods, or consider replacing conflicting mods with alternatives that are known to be compatible.
  • Use Compatibility Patches: Some mods offer compatibility patches that allow them to work alongside SKYUI. Install these patches to resolve conflicts.

5. Verify SKYUI Installation

A corrupt or incomplete installation of SKYUI can cause Error Code 5:

  • Reinstall SKYUI: Uninstall SKYUI and reinstall it, ensuring that all files are correctly placed in the game’s Data directory.
  • Manual Installation: If using a mod manager doesn’t resolve the issue, try manually installing SKYUI. Follow the instructions provided by the mod author to ensure a clean installation.
  • Check for Missing Files: Ensure that no files are missing from the SKYUI installation. Missing files can prevent the mod from functioning properly.

6. Disable Incompatible Mods

If certain mods are known to be incompatible with SKYUI, they should be disabled:

  • Check Mod Descriptions: Review the descriptions of all installed mods to see if any are known to conflict with SKYUI.
  • Disable Incompatible Mods: If any mods are identified as incompatible, disable or remove them to prevent conflicts.

7. Revert to a Previous Save

If the error persists and seems to be tied to your current save, reverting to a previous save might help:

  • Load an Earlier Save: Try loading a save from before the issue started occurring. This can sometimes resolve errors caused by corrupted save files or recent mod installations.
  • Use Save Game Cleaners: Tools like Skyrim Save Cleaner can help clean up your save files, removing any corrupted or unused scripts that might be causing the error.

Conclusion

SKYUI Error Code 5 can be frustrating, but it is usually solvable with the right approach. By ensuring that SKYUI, SKSE, and Skyrim are all up to date, managing your mod load order carefully, and resolving any conflicts with other mods, you can enjoy a seamless Skyrim experience. Regularly backing up your game and save files can help prevent future issues, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the world of Tamriel.

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