"Cannot save back changes because objects in the working set reference objects outside of the working set" when saving XREF in AutoCAD

Autodesk Support

Mar 20, 2025

Products and versions covered

Issue:

User reported that when trying to save a drawing in AutoCAD or close out of the REFEDIT command (in-place block or XREF editing) using Save Changes or Discard Changes, the following message appears:

AutoCAD
Cannot save back changes because objects in the working set reference objects outside of the working set. The Refedit session is still active. Press F2 after dismissing the dialog to see the list of missing references.
 

 An additional error may be seen on the command line:

  • AcDbZomieObject objects cannot be edited in place. 

  • Application reference missing: AcDbBlockRepETag, to AcDbBlockReference. 

  • Reference to Object missing: AecDBPipefitting, to AecbDBPipe.
 

Causes:

  • The REFEDIT command is active before attempting a save.
  • Attached xref or block contains errors and require recovery.
  • Leftover or corrupted database entries from other applications (Zombie Objects).
  • Some Dynamic blocks are created from 3rd party software (ZWCAD), and not compatible. 

Solution:

To resolve the issue, try out the following: 

  • Close out of the REFEDIT command.

Note: Select save, or discard changes if prompted when exiting the REFEDIT command.

  • Recover or repair all external reference (xref) files (see: How to repair corrupt AutoCAD files), then reload them into the parent file. 

  • If Zombie Objects are reported in the command line, try using the application Zombie Killer! (located in Autodesk App Store) to remove the objects.

  • To explode the dynamic block and recreated it in AutoCAD.

 

Products:

AutoCAD Products;

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