How to Fix iRacing demo drive not working
How to Fix iRacing Demo Drive Not Working (Season 4 Update)
Step 1: Check iRacing Server Status
Before diving into local fixes, confirm that the issue isn’t on iRacing’s end:- Visit the iRacing Status Page
- Check the iRacing Forums for maintenance announcements or bug reports
- Demo Drive is typically available during or shortly after maintenance windows
Step 2: Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers
Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can prevent the simulation from launching properly.
- Use your GPU’s official software (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel)
- Choose the Clean Install option during setup
- Restart your PC after installation
This ensures compatibility with the latest iRacing UI and rendering engine.
Step 3: Rename the iRacing Folder
Corrupted configuration files can block demo drive access. Renaming the folder forces iRacing to rebuild fresh settings.
How to do it:
- Navigate to:
C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Documents\iRacing - Rename the folder to:
iRacingbackup - Launch iRacing again to generate a new folder
This preserves your old settings while allowing a clean rebuild.
Step 4: Restart iRacing Services Manually
Sometimes the background services don’t initialize correctly. Restarting them manually can fix UI and simulation launch issues.
Steps:
C:\Program Files (x86)\iRacing)
This refreshes the service stack and UI environment.
Step 5: Clear UI Cache and Force Update
Corrupted cache files can block demo drive access or prevent new cars from loading.
Steps:
If updates are stuck or say “update required”:
- Go to your iRacing install folder
- Delete tracks.dat and version.txt
- Relaunch the UI to force a fresh re-download
Step 6: Reinstall Easy Anti-Cheat
Anti-cheat conflicts can prevent demo drive from launching, especially if the service is corrupted or blocked.
Fix:
- Navigate to the Easy Anti-Cheat folder inside your iRacing directory
- Run the installer again to repair or reinstall
- Restart your PC
Also consider temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall to rule out interference.
Step 7: Disconnect External Devices
Peripheral conflicts—especially with racing wheels, pedals, or VR headsets—can cause startup issues.
Steps:
- Close iRacing
- Unplug all external devices
- Relaunch the game
- Plug devices back in one at a time
This helps isolate any hardware-related conflicts.
Final Tips
- Always run iRacing as Administrator
- Keep your system and game fully updated
- Use wired internet for better stability during demo drive sessions
- If issues persist, contact iRacing Support with logs and screenshots
Mode:
Other Articles Related
How To Get Dual Hammers in Vermintide 2Learn how to unlock the powerful Dual Hammers for the Bardin Goreksson inVermintide 2. This guide covers the simple steps to get this top-tiermelee weapon for the Ironbreaker, Ranger Veteran, and Slayer careers.
All Heroes and Careers in Vermintide 2
Explore the diverse heroes and careers in Vermintide 2. Discover unique abilities, playstyles, and strategies to enhance your gameplay
Return to the Reik Grimoire and Tome Locations in Vermintide 2
Searching for every grimoire and tome? Our Vermintide 2 collectible guide for"Return to the Reik" reveals all book locations to maximize your lootand complete the mission.
All Formable Nations in Europa Universalis 5
all formable nations in Europa Universalis 5! Explore strategies, tips, and guides to expand your empire and dominate the game.
How To Beat Challenges in Kirby Air Riders
Struggling to master the skies? Learn expert tips and strategies to overcome every challenge in Kirby Air Ride. Dominate the City Trial, conquer all racetracks, and unlock the game's secrets with our complete guide.
How To Get All Crafting Materials in Moonlighter 2
essential tips for gathering all crafting materials in Moonlighter 2. Enhance your gameplay and unlock new possibilities!
Weapon Tier List in Moonlighter 2
the ultimate weapon tier list for Moonlighter 2! Optimize your gameplay with our guide to the best weapons and strategies.
How to find Mandrakes in Don't Starve Together
Struggling to find Mandrakes in Don't Starve Together? Learn thebest seasons, locations, and strategies to hunt these elusive livingroots and craft their powerful items.
How To Improve Institution Growth In Europa Universalis 5
effective strategies to enhance institution growth in Europa Universalis 5. Unlock new potential and dominate your gameplay
How to Fix Europa Universalis 5 Not Launching Error
Resolve the Europa Universalis 5 not launching error with our step-by-step. Get back to gaming quickly and enjoy seamless gameplay!
How to Fix FC 26 Stuck on Loading Screen Issue
Resolve the FC 26 stuck on loading screen issue quickly and easily with our step-by-step guide. Get back to gaming in no time!
How to destroy Swarmer Nests to thin out the swarm in Fortnite Chapter 6, season 4
Destroy Swarmer Nests in Fortnite Chapter 6 Season 4 to control the swarm! This guide explains the best weapons and strategies to quickly locate andeliminate nests, making your battles in the Nitrodrome much easier.
How to Fix FC 26 Lagging on PS5/PS4
Resolve FC 26 lagging issues on PS5/PS4 with our expert tips and solutions. Enhance your gaming experience
How to Fix Borderlands Shift account not working
Resolve your Borderlands Shift account issues quickly with our step-by-step guide. Get back to gaming in no time!
How to complete all Egg-cellent Observations story quests in Fortnite Chapter 6, season 4
Hunt down all the hidden eggs! This guide details how to complete everyEgg-cellent Observations story quest in Fortnite Chapter 6 Season 4 toearn XP and unlock rewards.