How to fix error 1628: Failed to complete installation error in Windows?

The “Error 1628: Failed to Complete Installation” error disrupts Windows 11 uninstallation processes when users try to remove games and applications. This error emerges from InstallShield engine which serves as a popular installer framework and occurs when uninstallation scripts fail to run properly. The Windows 11 user experienced a permanent installation error while attempting to uninstall a game, which did not resolve through system restart.

This problem often stems from corrupted installation files, a stalled installer process, or conflicts with Windows system components, such as the Windows Installer service. For example, if the uninstallation log is damaged or a background process like IDriver.exe remains active, the process aborts, resulting in Error 1628.

Additional culprits might include insufficient permissions, an outdated Windows Installer, or a cluttered Temp folder disrupting the operation. While this error can also occur during installation, the user’s experience underscores its prevalence in uninstallation scenarios.

For Windows 11 users, particularly gamers, this error complicates system maintenance, leaving unwanted programs stuck on the device. A simple reboot often falls short of resolving InstallShield-related issues, requiring more targeted fixes. Thankfully, several methods (ranging from terminating stuck processes to manually clearing installation remnants) can help users overcome this error and successfully remove their software on Windows 11.

Fix 1. End stuck installer processes

This solution stops rogue installer tasks that could jam the uninstallation by targeting InstallShield-specific processes.

• Press Ctrl Shift Esc to open the Task Manager.
• Go to the Processes tab and sort by Name.
• Locate IDriver.exe or ISSetup.exe if present and click it.
• Hit End Task to terminate the process.
• Attempt uninstalling again via Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.

Fix 2. Run the Program install and uninstall troubleshooter

Microsoft’s troubleshooter detects and fixes registry or installer glitches that trigger Error 1628.

• Download the troubleshooter from Microsoft's official website.
• Open the downloaded file and click Next.
• Choose the Uninstalling option when prompted.
• Choose the program you can't uninstall and follow the prompts.
• Retry uninstalling after the tool completes.

Fix 3. Clear temporary files

Removing temporary files clears out debris that might disrupt the uninstaller’s workflow from past operations.

• Press the Win R key together, type %temp% and press Enter.
• A folder will open with lots of files – select all by pressing Control A key, then press Delete.
• Empty the Recycle Bin afterward.
• Restart your PC and open Outlook.

Fix 4. Use Safe Mode

Safe Mode strips down system activity, giving the uninstaller a clean slate to execute without interference.

• Right-click on Start and pick Settings.
• Select System (in Windows 10, select Update & Security > Recovery).
• Under Recovery options, next to Advanced Startup, click Restart now.
• After a reboot, you will be presented with several options – pick Troubleshoot.
• Go to Advanced options > Startup Settings and then pick Restart.
• After a reboot, pick either 4/F4 for Safe Mode or 5/F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.
• Restart your computer.
• Try uninstalling the offending app again.

Fix 5. Manually Delete InstallShield Data

Manually removing InstallShield remnants tackles corrupted files that might derail the uninstall process.

• Press Win E to open File Explorer.
• Go to the following location:
  C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files
• Right-click on InstallShield folder and select Rename. Change the name to InstallShield_Old.
• Head to the following location next:
  C:\Program Files (x86)\InstallShield Installation Information
• Delete the folder tied to the program’s install date or GUID.

Fix 6. Restart Windows Installer service

Refreshing the Windows Installer service resolves issues where it’s stalled or misconfigured, affecting uninstallation.

• Press the Win R to open the Run dialog.
• Type in services.msc and press Enter.
• Scroll down to find Windows Installer in the list.
• Right-click on Windows Installer and select Restart.
• If the service is not running, double-click it to open Properties.
• Under Startup type, select Automatic from the drop-down menu.
• Click Start, Apply, and OK.

Fix 7. Re-Register Windows Installer

Re-registering the Installer service fixes issues where its components are misaligned, disrupting uninstall processes.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and pick Run as administrator.
• User Account Control window will ask whether you want to allow changes – click Yes.
• In the Command Prompt window type in the following and press Enter after each command:
  msiexec /unregister
  msiexec /regserver
• Once done, close Command Prompt.
• Attempt the uninstallation again.

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