How do you exit Build Mode in The Sims 4?
How to exit Build Mode in The Sims 4
Click the Live Mode button at the top right of the screen to leave Build Mode. On PC and Mac you can also press F1 to go straight back to Live Mode. On PlayStation and Xbox, select the Live Mode button in the top-right corner. If nothing works, a broken UI mod is a common cause on PC.
Pack: Base game.
Steps
PC and Mac
- Click the Live Mode button at the top right of the screen.
- Or press F1 on your keyboard. The game goes back to Live Mode.
- To go back, press F2 for Buy Mode or F3 for Build Mode.
PlayStation and Xbox
- Move the cursor to the mode buttons at the top right of the screen.
- Select the Live Mode button.
- For a button shortcut, see the in-game Controls list.
Controls
| Action | PC | Mac | PlayStation | Xbox |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live Mode | F1 | F1 | See the in-game Controls list | See the in-game Controls list |
| Buy Mode | F2 | F2 | See the in-game Controls list | See the in-game Controls list |
| Build Mode | F3 | F3 | See the in-game Controls list | See the in-game Controls list |
Common problems
F1 does nothing on a Mac
On many Mac keyboards the top row controls brightness and volume. Hold fn and press F1, or click the Live Mode button.
The Live Mode button does not work
Press F1. If that also fails, a user interface mod may be broken. Remove UI mods and any mods that have not been updated since the last patch.
Still stuck in Build Mode
Quit the game and delete localthumbcache.package from Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 4. Then repair the game in the EA app (Manage, then Repair) or verify the game files in Steam.
The interface is missing after I leave Build Mode on console
Save the game if you can, then quit and restart it.
In the Sims 4 database
More how-to guides
Play your Sims somewhere new
LifeSim is a free life sim in your browser, set in real cities. It can bring in a household from your Sims 4 Tray files or a save: import a Sims 4 household. It doesn't change your Sims 4 game.
Sources
- Carl's Sims 4 Guide: Keyboard shortcuts and game controls
- Prima Games: How to get out of Build Mode
- Sims Community: The Sims 4 Console: Getting Started
Checked on November 5, 2026.
Questions
How do you exit build mode on Sims 4 console?
Select the Live Mode button at the top right of the screen. The in-game Controls list shows any button shortcut.
What key exits Build Mode in Sims 4?
F1 takes you back to Live Mode on PC and Mac.
Will repairing the game delete my saves?
No. Repairing the game does not remove your saves or mods, but back them up first to be safe.