CCleaner not launching on Vista

Hi guys,

Firstly - great software! I've been using it for years. I've got an odd one with a laptop I am fixing for someone. Although I can install CCleaner (or defraggler) they both crash on launch with the error "<program name> has stopped working".

I'm using an administrator account, UAC disabled, uninstall and reinstall, tried the portable version, set full access for user, and even tried debug mode. In debug mode it just finishes on the first line:

[22:34:20::253][iNFO ] CCleaner v4.14.4707
[22:34:20::258][iNFO ] MS Windows Vista Home Premium 32-bit SP2
[22:34:20::258][iNFO ] AMD Turion X2 Dual-Core Mobile RM-72
[22:34:20::259][iNFO ] 3.0GB RAM
[22:34:20::260][iNFO ] ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3450
[22:34:20::261][iNFO ] Username: Liam
[22:34:20::261][iNFO ] Application Started
It's really a weird one - I've downloaded other items (malwarebytes rootkit/malware) and I've made some other changes to user accounts (there were three with Guest account enabled, now all passwords are removed and there is one account so it boots straight to desktop). There were some toolbars and things installed but nothing nasty, it just needs a cleanup. The system clock was incorrect (by over a year), and there were around 200 windows updates which were applied, but this issue was present before and after?
CCleaner is my goto - I've never needed anything else so I'm not sure why it isn't running! Any ideas?
Cheers,
Dan

have you tried running them from Safe Mode?

what is the AV program?

Sounds like that machine is pretty messed up.

Have you run a system file check on it?

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/936212

Also sounds like permissions have been altered.

I would consider going to one of the sites listed here in item 10 and get it checked over.

http://forum.piriform.com/index.php?showannouncement=15&f=4

Thanks guys,

I've done the virus scans, MB anti rootkits and anti malware, it was only toolbars and tracking cookies, nothing troublesome. Forgot about the system file checker, I'm running that now and I'll report back. Have to give the laptop back tomorrow anyway.

I'll try running in safe mode if the SFC doesn't fix the issue.

Cheers for the help.

Dan

OK, the SFC found issues and repaired them, but still no joy. Even in safe mode, both CCleaner and Defraggler crash on launch. It's really odd. I've downloaded and used another registry cleaner fine (Wise Registry Cleaner).

Is there any chance that this is an application bug? I think it's odd that it happens for both CCleaner and Defraggler but not for any other software which has been downloaded, and it also occurs in safe mode?

PC is all clean now - no infections and completely up to date.

Again, any advice/input appreciated.