Error applying transforms. Verify that the specified transform paths are valid. Uninstall/repair

[bridget0870]

Hi all,

I’m trying to fix an issue where all my .pdf files just show as white rectangles in Windows Explorer instead of proper PDF thumbnails.

When I try to repair, reinstall, or uninstall Adobe [Acrobat / Creative Cloud Desktop / specify the app], I get this error:

Error applying transforms. Verify that the specified transform paths are valid.

Nothing so far has helped.

What I have tried

• Repair from Programs and Features, same error

• Uninstall from Creative Cloud and from Programs and Features, same error

• Run installers as Administrator

• Sign out of Creative Cloud Desktop, quit it, sign back in

• Cleared the TEMP folder

• Disabled antivirus and Windows Defender

• Ran Adobe Creative Cloud Cleaner Tool to clean the affected app and CC Desktop

• Used Microsoft’s Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter

System

• Windows 11 Home: 

• Affected app and version: Acrobat Pro

• Install source: Creative Cloud Desktop

Happy to attach any logs that help.

If helpful, I can also check the Windows Installer registry entries for the affected Adobe product and share what I find. But I only have basic IT knowledge, so I would need to be told step-by-step how to gather any other information.

Question
How can I get past the “Error applying transforms” problem so I can fix the missing PDF thumbnails?

Thanks in advance.

[S. S]

Hi @bridget22148281huas,

Hope you are doing well. Sorry to hear about your experience.

From the description, it seems like an issue with the Microsoft Installer Exchange program which is not able to parse the process.

Here are a few steps recommended by Microsoft experts on their forums which might be helpful: https://adobe.ly/4nh7GMJ

Please try the steps and let us know if it helps.

Regards,
Souvik.