I've looked everywhere (it seems) for an answer to my problem! When I try to download adobe reader, I get an error message that says:

"Windows Installer service could not be accessed.This can occur if the Windows Installer is not correctly installed. Contact your support personnel for assistance."

I try to check that the service it on manual, and then when I manually click start to run the windows installer, a message pops up that says:

"The Windows Installer service on Local Computer started and then stopped. Some services stop automatically if they are not in use by other services or programs."

I have no idea what to do. I've tried to many things and have been to so many websites.

Also, I am using Vista on a Dell XPS.

Hello and welcome to PCHF

Fortunately, this is usually an easy fix.

Download Windows Installer directly from Microsoft and run it as Administrator (Right-click>Run as...).

This is a somewhat common issue BTW.

Is your problem solved?

If the actual Windows Installer service is stopped, you can try to restart it manually.

Hit "Windows Key"+R, then type in "services.msc".
This will open a services manager window where you can track down Windows Installer and double-check that it's not disabled. Take a look and let us know.

I tried to install the components but it tells me that there is not enough storage available to process this command. Yet I have 180 GB free space on my C drive...

It says it's on automatic. I tried pressing the "start" button, and it loads for a few seconds, and then an error says it tarted and stopped..