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Fixing the 'eval()'d code' Error in Code Snippets: A Complete Troubleshooting Guide

83 threads Sep 9, 2025 Plugin → Code snippets

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One of the most common and alarming issues users face with the Code Snippets plugin is the dreaded "eval()'d code" error, which often results in a fatal error or a completely crashed WordPress site. This guide will explain why this happens and walk you through the most effective solutions to get your site back online.

What Causes the "eval()'d code" Error?

Contrary to what the error message implies, the problem is almost never a bug in the Code Snippets plugin itself. The error originates from a snippet of custom code that you have created and activated. The plugin uses PHP's eval() function to execute your custom code, and if that code contains a syntax error, references a function that doesn't exist, or conflicts with another plugin, it will cause a fatal error. The error is reported from the plugin's snippet-ops.php file because that is where the execution happens.

Common causes include:

  • Syntax Errors: A missing semicolon, bracket, or a typo in your code.
  • Missing Dependencies: The snippet calls a function from WooCommerce, Dokan, or another plugin that is not active on the site.
  • Redeclaring Functions: The snippet is trying to create a function that already exists elsewhere in your codebase.
  • Server Configuration: In rare cases, specific code (like <script> tags in PHP) can conflict with server-level security settings.

How to Fix It: Step-by-Step Solutions

Solution 1: Enable Safe Mode (If Your Site is Crashed)

If the error has made your site inaccessible, your first step is to use the built-in Safe Mode. This feature allows you to disable the Code Snippets plugin without causing further errors, giving you access to your dashboard.

  1. Access your site via FTP or your hosting provider's file manager.
  2. Locate and edit the wp-config.php file in your site's root directory.
  3. Add the following line of code above the line that says /* That's all, stop editing! Happy publishing. */: 
    define( 'CODE_SNIPPETS_SAFE_MODE', true );
  4. Save the file and reload your WordPress admin dashboard. The plugin should now be inactive, allowing you to log in.

Solution 2: Identify and Deactivate the Problematic Snippet

Once you have access to your dashboard via Safe Mode, you need to find and fix the snippet causing the issue.

  1. Navigate to Snippets > All Snippets.
  2. Look for any snippet that is active but might contain errors. Snippets that recently stopped working often point to a missing plugin dependency.
  3. Deactivate the most recently edited or activated snippet. If you're unsure, deactivate them one by one, testing your site after each deactivation.
  4. Once the site is stable, you can edit the deactivated snippet to fix the error. Carefully check for syntax mistakes and ensure any external classes or functions it references are available.
  5. Remember to remove the Safe Mode constant from your wp-config.php file once you are finished.

Solution 3: Check for Common Code Mistakes

Review your snippet's code for these frequent problems:

  • Check for Typos: A simple typo like fucntion instead of function can break everything.
  • Check Dependencies: If your snippet uses wc_get_product() or a class like Dokan_Seller_Setup_Wizard, ensure the WooCommerce or Dokan plugin is installed and active.
  • Avoid Function Redeclaration: Always use if ( ! function_exists( 'function_name' ) ) { to wrap your function declarations to prevent conflicts.
  • Validate Your Code: Use a local code editor or an online PHP validator to check for syntax errors before activating a snippet.

Solution 4: For Persistent Plugin Issues

In very rare cases, like the one mentioned in Thread 19, an error during plugin update or installation can corrupt its files, leading to a different class of errors.

  1. Completely uninstall the Code Snippets plugin.
  2. Download a fresh copy from the WordPress plugin repository.
  3. Manually upload it via FTP or reinstall it through your dashboard. This ensures all plugin files are intact.

Conclusion

While seeing a "eval()'d code" error can be frightening, it is almost always solvable. The key is to understand that the error is a messenger pointing to a problem in your custom code, not the plugin. By using Safe Mode to regain access and then methodically reviewing your snippets, you can resolve the conflict and get your site running smoothly again.

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