Screenshot of error download to use
Seeing “Download to Use” in The Sims 4? Find out why it happens and how to fix missing packs on EA app, Steam, PlayStation, or Xbox.

When your Sims 4 expansion packs, game packs, or kits show “Download to Use,” it usually means the game confirms you own the content, but the required files are not installed, incomplete, or not detected correctly. This issue can occur on PC (EA app or Steam) as well as on PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

Below are step-by-step solutions based on your platform.

For PC (EA App or Steam)

1. Install Missing Packs Manually

The most common fix is to make sure each pack is fully downloaded and installed through your launcher.

EA App or Steam:
  • Open the EA app or Steam.
  • Go to Library and select The Sims 4.
  • Click Manage or the three-dot menu.
  • Open Manage Add-ons (EA app) or scroll to the DLC section (Steam).
  • Locate any packs marked as not installed and click Download or Install.

2. Clear the Launcher Cache

Corrupted cache files can prevent the launcher from recognizing installed content.

EA App:
  • Click the menu (three lines) in the top-left corner.
  • Go to Help > App Recovery.
  • Select Clear Cache and restart the app.

Steam:
  • Right-click The Sims 4 in your Library.
  • Choose Properties > Installed Files.
  • Click Verify integrity of game files.

3. Repair the Game

Repairing the game checks for missing or damaged files and fixes them automatically.
  • In the EA app, open your Library.
  • Click the three dots on The Sims 4 tile.
  • Select Repair and wait for the process to finish.

4. Confirm You’re Using the Correct EA Account

Make sure you are signed in to the same EA account that originally purchased the packs. Packs will not appear or install if you are logged into a different account.

5. Check Installation Location (Advanced Users)

Ensure all Sims 4 files and expansion packs are installed in the same main Sims 4 directory.

Usually, you can find it in this location (unless you changed it):
This PC\Local Disk C\Program Files\EA Games\The Sims 4

or here if you use Steam:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\The Sims 4

Screenshot of DLC Installation Path for Steam

 They should NOT be placed in:
  • A separate custom folder
  • A Create-a-Sim Demo folder
  • Multiple install locations
  • A cloud drive such as OneDrive which causes syncing issues

Incorrect file paths can cause the game to display “Download to Use” even when files exist.

For PlayStation or Xbox

1. Restore Licenses (PlayStation Only)

Restoring licenses forces the console to re-verify your purchased content.
  • Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other.
  • Select Restore Licenses.

2. Check and Install Game Add-Ons

Some packs may need to be installed manually.
  • Open Game Library (PlayStation) or My Games & Apps (Xbox).
  • Select The Sims 4.
  • Scroll to the Add-Ons section.
  • Install any packs listed as not installed.

3. Check Active Subscriptions

If a pack was downloaded through PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass, it will only work while your subscription is active. Expired subscriptions can cause packs to show as unavailable.

4. Reinstall the Game (Last Resort)

If none of the above steps work:
  • Fully uninstall The Sims 4 and all add-ons.
  • Reinstall the base game first.
  • Download and install each pack again.

Final Tips

The “Download to Use” message almost always means the content is owned but not properly installed or detected. Following the steps above usually resolves the issue without needing to contact support.

If the problem persists after reinstalling, contacting EA Support, PlayStation Support, or Xbox Support may be necessary for account-level issues.