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How to Fix VS Code Extensions Not Working

VS Code extensions not working

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is one of the most popular code editors among developers, thanks to its lightweight performance and powerful extensions. Extensions enhance productivity by adding features like code formatting, debugging, Git integration, themes, and language support.

But what if your VS Code extensions stop working? Suddenly, your Python formatter doesn’t run, your ESLint errors don’t appear, or GitLens refuses to load. These issues can disrupt workflow, cause frustration, and slow down development.

Common Causes of VS Code Extensions Not Working

Before applying fixes, it helps to know why this issue happens. Here are some frequent causes:

  • Corrupted extension files – An incomplete installation may break functionality.

  • Outdated VS Code – Older versions sometimes conflict with newer extensions.

  • Disabled extensions – Extensions may be accidentally disabled.

  • Conflicting extensions – Two extensions doing similar tasks can interfere with each other.

  • Damaged settings.json – Incorrect settings can prevent extensions from loading.

  • Internet connection issues – Extensions needing online resources may fail if offline.

  • Corrupted cache – VS Code caches may cause unexpected extension errors.

Step-by-Step Fixes for VS Code Extensions Not Working

1. Restart VS Code

Sometimes, the simplest fix works. Close and reopen VS Code. If the extension still doesn’t work, try a full system restart.

(Screenshot suggestion: Show restarting VS Code from the taskbar or application menu)

 

2. Check if the Extension is Enabled

  1. Open Extensions View (Ctrl+Shift+X or Cmd+Shift+X on Mac).

  2. Search for your extension.

  3. Ensure it shows as Enabled.

  4. If disabled, click the Enable button.

 

3. Update VS Code

An outdated editor may break compatibility.

  • Open Help > Check for Updates.

  • Download and install the latest version.

  • Restart VS Code after updating.

 

4. Update Extensions

  1. Go to Extensions View.

  2. If updates are available, you’ll see an Update button.

  3. Update all extensions, especially language-specific ones like Python, JavaScript, or Prettier.

 

5. Reload VS Code Window

Instead of restarting the entire app, you can reload:

  • Press Ctrl+Shift+P → Type Reload Window.

  • This refreshes VS Code without closing it.

 

6. Disable Conflicting Extensions

Some extensions overlap, e.g., two linters or two formatters.

  • Disable one extension at a time.

  • Test if the problem disappears.

Example: If both ESLint and TSLint are installed, they may conflict.

 

7. Clear VS Code Cache

Cache files sometimes cause corruption.

  • Close VS Code.

  • Navigate to:

    • Windows: %APPDATA%\Code\Cache

    • Mac: ~/Library/Application Support/Code/Cache

    • Linux: ~/.config/Code/Cache

  • Delete cache folders.

  • Restart VS Code.

 

8. Reset VS Code Settings

If settings.json is misconfigured:

  1. Press Ctrl+Shift+P.

  2. Search Preferences: Open Settings (JSON).

  3. Look for suspicious or broken configurations.

  4. Reset to default if unsure.


9. Reinstall the Extension

If nothing works:

  1. Uninstall the extension.

  2. Restart VS Code.

  3. Reinstall the extension from the Marketplace.

 

10. Reinstall VS Code (Last Resort)

If extensions still fail:

  • Backup settings and extensions list.

  • Uninstall VS Code.

  • Reinstall the latest version.

  • Restore your settings.

Fix MethodDifficultyWhen to Use
Restart VS CodeEasyFirst attempt
Enable ExtensionEasyIf disabled accidentally
Update VS CodeEasyUsing older versions
Update ExtensionsEasyKnown bugs fixed in updates
Reload WindowEasyQuick refresh needed
Disable Conflicting Ext.MediumIf multiple formatters/linters installed
Clear CacheMediumIf corruption suspected
Reset SettingsMediumIf settings.json broken
Reinstall ExtensionMediumIf single extension fails
Reinstall VS CodeHardLast option

Practical Tips and Alternatives

  • Use Portable VS Code if you don’t want to reinstall completely.

  • Check the Output Panel (Ctrl+Shift+U) for error logs.

  • Visit the extension’s GitHub repo or VS Code Marketplace page for known issues.

  • Use the Insiders Build of VS Code to test if issues persist.

Examples of Common Extension Issues

  • Prettier Not Working: Often caused by another formatter overriding it. Disable other formatters.

  • Python Extension Broken: Make sure Python is installed and configured in PATH.

  • GitLens Not Loading: Check if Git is installed and accessible from the terminal.

FAQs

Q1. Why are my VS Code extensions not showing?
They might be disabled, corrupted, or your VS Code installation may be broken.

Q2. How do I know if an extension is conflicting?
Disable them one by one to test functionality.

Q3. Do I need internet for extensions?
Some extensions (like snippets) work offline, but linters, themes, or API-based tools may need internet.

Q4. Will reinstalling VS Code delete my extensions?
Yes, unless you back them up or sync via Settings Sync.

Conclusion

VS Code extensions are essential for boosting productivity, but when they stop working, it can feel frustrating. By following the above step-by-step fixes, you can quickly resolve issues and get your extensions running smoothly again.

Remember:

  • Always keep VS Code updated.

  • Regularly update extensions.

  • Avoid installing too many conflicting extensions.