How to Fix Corrupted MP4 Files (Fast & Easy Guide)
How to Fix Corrupted MP4 Files (Ultimate 2025 Guide)
If your MP4 video won’t play, freezes halfway, shows errors, or refuses to open, the file is most likely corrupted. This is a common issue caused by incomplete downloads, sudden power failures, damaged storage devices, or improper video editing.
In this guide, we’ll show you quick, reliable, and free ways to fix corrupted MP4 files — even if the video seems completely broken.
Common Reasons MP4 Files Get Corrupted
1. Improper File Transfer
Unplugging USB devices, SD cards, or phones too early can damage video data.
2. Interrupted Download or Upload
A partially downloaded video often becomes unplayable.
3. Bad Storage Devices
Old SD cards, damaged hard drives, or faulty USB drives cause file corruption.
4. Broken Video Codecs
If a codec is missing or outdated, your MP4 may appear corrupted.
5. Software Crash During Recording
A phone or camera crash often leaves the MP4 header incomplete.
How to Fix Corrupted MP4 Files (Step-by-Step)
Below are the top methods that actually work, including online tools, software, and manual fixes.
Method 1: Repair MP4 File Using VLC Media Player
VLC comes with a built-in video repair tool.
Steps:
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Open VLC Media Player
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Go to Media → Convert/Save
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Add the corrupted MP4 file
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Choose MP4 as the output format
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Click Start
If VLC detects corruption, it will automatically repair the video during conversion.
Method 2: Use Free Online MP4 Repair Tools
These tools work best when the file won’t open or freezes during playback.
Common options include:
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MP4 Repair Online
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RestoreVideo
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Video Repair Cloud
Method 3: Convert the Video to a New Format
Sometimes the video isn’t corrupted — the format is.
Try converting it to:
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MOV
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AVI
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MKV
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WEBM
This helps refresh the codec and fix hidden errors.
Method 4: Fix MP4 Using FFmpeg (Advanced)
FFmpeg can rebuild corrupted video headers.
Example command:
Method 5: Restore from Temporary Files
Phones and cameras sometimes save temporary backup files.
Check:
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DCIM folders
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Temp camera folders
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Hidden system video files
You may find a playable backup version.
Tips to Prevent MP4 File Corruption
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Always safely eject USB and SD cards
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Use high-quality storage devices
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Avoid force-closing camera or recording apps
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Keep multiple backups
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Use reliable video conversion tools
FAQ: Fixing Corrupted MP4 Files
1. Why won’t my MP4 file play?
It may be corrupted due to bad storage, missing codecs, or incomplete downloads.
2. Can a badly corrupted MP4 file be fixed?
Yes. VLC, FFmpeg, and online repair tools can restore most damaged files.
3. Are online MP4 repair tools safe?
Yes, as long as you use trusted and reputable websites.
4. Why do I hear audio but see no video?
This is usually a codec problem. Converting the file typically fixes it.
5. Can converting the video repair it?
Yes. Converting rebuilds the file structure and can fix header issues.
6. My recording crashed — is my MP4 recoverable?
Often yes, especially if temporary files still exist.