Import autocad into illustrator- not working with late versions of Illustrator- bring back 2020!

[Kym36196514zwaf]

HI guys,

Windows 10 desktops using Autocad Map3D 2019

Opening .dwg files in illustrator is essential for our work. As per Adobe's instructions, we've been downgrading our files to pre-2007 for compatibility.  This worked until a few months ago when Adobe forced everyone to convert to later versions of Illustrator. Opening .dwg no longer works, and the program either instantly crashes (version 28.6) or comes up with unknown file format error (version 28.7.1).

We had 1 remaining PC that we had saved 2020 Illustrator from being upgraded, unbenownst to us someone upgraded it and we have now lost our ability to open Autocad .dwg files, (2020 version had zero problems with this).

No other changes to the PC, only Illustrator was upgraded. A drawing with a single line in 2004 format is unable to be opened in Illustrator versions post-2020. 

I've read in another forum it may be a format issue with older Autocad files, and Illustrator has only included the latest Autocad file format recognition in it's most recent versions (post-2020). Can someone confirm if this is correct? Can someone confirm they are able to import later version .dwg files into Illustrator? 

If that is the case, Adobe needs to update the information page regarding import of .dwg files, which still states they need to be pre-2007 file format to work! I also logged a crash report and was contacted, but received no response or resolution once I gave them the information.

It is vital for our work that we have the ability to open .dwg files in Illustrator- any information is helpful!

[Anshul_Saini]

Hi @Kym36196514zwaf,

I understand how essential opening .dwg files in Illustrator is for your workflow. Illustrator relies on the latest Autodesk-licensed AutoCAD library to open and import DXF/DWG files. Unfortunately, some files that show errors on import may be malformed, meaning they don’t fully adhere to the file format specifications or are exported using an older version of AutoCAD or a third-party app that uses a different library. Often, these files can’t be opened even in the latest AutoCAD.

Previously, Illustrator 2020 v24 and below used a different library to import these files, which didn’t strictly check for format conformance. However, that library was incompatible with recent OS upgrades, prompting us to switch to Autodesk’s latest library for better support. This change has led to stricter file checks in newer Illustrator versions.

For files that do open in the latest AutoCAD but fail to open in Illustrator, please share such files, as they could indicate specific bugs for the product team to address. Additionally, you may want to report malformed files directly to the application creating them so future releases may resolve these issues.

Let me know if there’s anything more I can help clarify!

Best,

Anshul Saini

[Kym36196514zwaf]

Hi Anshul,

Would you be able to confirm which file format .dwg works in current Illustrator versions?

I would also suggest the page on importing .dwg files into Illustrator should be updated for post 2020 versions of Illustrator.

Thanks

[Anshul_Saini]

For the best compatibility, please try exporting your .dwg files using the latest version of AutoCAD available. This should align with Illustrator’s current import requirements and improve the chances of a successful import.

I can't confirm the exact AutoCAD version that works best with Illustrator, as it’s subject to ongoing updates. However, updating the support page for importing .dwg files with Illustrator’s latest requirements is a great suggestion, and I’ll pass this along to the relevant team!

Let me know if there’s anything else I can assist with.

Best,

Anshul Saini