Residual files left behind by older Visual Studio 2012 Release Candidates (RC) or Beta versions. The Official Solution: TotalUninstaller
Follow this exact sequence to avoid reinstalling Windows:
Once the command window automatically closes or indicates completion: Restart your computer to release locked system file hooks.
This tool may remove .NET Frameworks or C++ Redistributables used by other software. You may need to reinstall those specific packages later.
: Modern versions of Visual Studio (2017+) use the InstallCleanup.exe tool located at %ProgramFiles(x86)%\Microsoft Visual Studio\Installer\InstallCleanup.exe to achieve similar results. Alternative Maintenance Tools microsoft visual studio 2012 pre clean tool download upd
Before running any cleaning tool, it is recommended to back up your registry.
The standard uninstall procedure hangs, throws errors, or doesn't actually remove the files.
| Source | Availability | Notes | |--------|-------------|-------| | | Yes (active subscription required) | Search for “Visual Studio 2012 Pre-Clean Tool” | | Microsoft Download Center (Archive) | No (deprecated since 2017) | Link redirects to VS2022 pages | | Visual Studio 2012 SDK | Yes (bundled) | Installed with VS2012 SDK | | GitHub Microsoft Archive | Yes (unofficial mirror) | Use only signed binaries |
Navigate to the drive containing the ISO (e.g., D:\ ). Residual files left behind by older Visual Studio
Cons:
Microsoft Visual Studio 2012 Pre Clean Tool Download Update: A Comprehensive Guide
vs_preclean.exe /clean /force /log
on how to run a force-cleanup using the command line for a specific error? Can not install visual studio ultimate 2012 - Super User You may need to reinstall those specific packages later
: Right-click the tool and select Run as Administrator .
If you are looking for information on newer versions, please note that mainstream support for Visual Studio 2017 ended in 2022. For current projects, Microsoft recommends upgrading to Visual Studio 2026 .
: Some versions of the tool can be forced via the command prompt by navigating to the installer directory and using: vs_professional.exe /uninstall /force .