Problem in saving a file created in excel 2003 using excel 2010

[spurs]

I have a very complex file that was originaly created using excel 2003. I have now upgraded one of my computers to excel 2010.

When I open the file from 2003 in 2010, it opens in compatability mode. When I go to save the file, it defaults to excel 97-2003 format. After clicking to on save, the compatability checker gives me many warnings all related to a significant loss fo functionality.

It gives me a list of features - all related "to data validation rules which refer to other worksheets" - and then the message says that these validation rules will not be saved.

I have used the find option to try to figure out what the problem is. In most cases, the cells that are highlighted are drop down lists created using data validation. The cells that are referenced in the drop down list vaidation settings are within the same worksheet as the cell for the list. I am at a loss to figure out what is wrong or how to correct it.

Does anyone have any suggetions?

 

[Peter_SSs]

Assuming you have a backup of your file, what happens if you remove the checkmark from "Check compatibility when saving this workbook"?

 

[spurs]

How do you shut off compatability mode? The original file is 2003 and I want to keep it in 2003 to be able to use it on other systems. If I remove the checkmark it clears the error but the next time I save it comes right back

Why would removing the checkmark help if there are workbook issues? The problem is that the error reported does not seem consistent with what I see in the data validation settings.