You open a PDF and get the dreaded error 135. Your heart sinks. But don’t worry—this error usually means the file is slightly corrupted or there’s a compatibility hiccup, not a total loss. I’ve been there, and I’m going to show you exactly how to fix it. By the end of this guide, you’ll have your PDF back in working order, whether it’s a work document, a homework assignment, or a personal file.
This guide is for anyone who sees error 135 when trying to open a PDF. No fancy technical skills required—just follow each step in order. We’ll cover updating software, trying alternative readers, using online repair tools, and finally, dedicated desktop software. Plus, I’ll share common pitfalls so you don’t make things worse. Ready? Let’s get that PDF open.
What You’ll Need
- The PDF file showing error 135
- A computer with internet access
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (or alternative reader like Foxit PDF, Edge, Chrome)
- Optional: a PDF repair tool (we’ll cover free and paid options)
Step 1: Update Adobe Reader and Your System
Often, error 135 pops up because your PDF reader is out of date or doesn’t support the file’s version. First, open Adobe Reader and go to Help > Check for Updates. Install any pending updates. Then restart your computer. Try opening the PDF again. If it works, you’re done! If not, move to the next step.
Step 2: Try a Different PDF Reader
Sometimes the issue is specific to Adobe Reader. Try opening the PDF in another program like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Foxit PDF Reader. If it opens fine, you can continue using that reader or reinstall Adobe. If the error persists, the file is likely corrupted. Note: if you often encounter similar errors, you might also want to read our guide on how to repair pdf error 14—it follows a similar approach.
Step 3: Use an Online PDF Repair Tool
If the file is corrupted, an online repair tool can often fix it without installing software. Search for a reputable online PDF repair service (like pdfrepairs.click’s own tool or iLovePDF). Upload your file, let it process, and download the repaired version. Be cautious with sensitive documents—use a trusted service. For students working on deadlines, our pdf repair for students guide has additional tips for quick fixes.
Step 4: Repair with Desktop PDF Repair Software
Online tools are convenient but have file size limits. For stubborn errors, desktop software like Adobe Acrobat Pro or dedicated repair tools (e.g., SysTools PDF Repair) often work better. Open the tool, add your PDF, and run the repair. These tools can also fix pdf stream issues that cause error 135. If you’re looking for a starting point, check our roundup of the best pdf repair software.
Step 5: Recreate the PDF from Original Source
If none of the above works, the corruption may be too severe. The last resort is to recreate the PDF from its source—for example, re-export from Word, Excel, or your design software. If you have only the corrupted PDF, you can try to how to extract pages from corrupted pdf to salvage content. Open the file in a hex editor or use a PDF extractor to grab text and images before recreating.
Common Pitfalls
- Skipping the update step – Many people jump straight to repair tools, but updating Adobe Reader fixes error 135 more often than you’d think. Always try updates first.
- Using untrusted online repair sites – Uploading sensitive documents to shady services can lead to data leaks. Stick to reputable sites or desktop software for confidential files.
- Ignoring file permissions – Sometimes error 135 is a permissions issue: the file might be locked or only readable by a specific user. Check file properties and try opening as administrator.
Where to Next
That’s it—you’ve now got a full toolkit to fix PDF error 135. If you run into other errors, browse our site for more repair guides. And remember, regular backups can save you from future headaches. Stay organized, and happy repairing!
