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How to Repair Corrupt MP4 and MOV File using VLC and other Media Player
Summary: The post explains the various processes to deal with inaccessible, corrupt MP4 and MOV media files using VLC integrated features and also suggests using a professional Video Repair tool to repair corrupt files.
Most of us are familiar with VLC, a free media player for viewing movies. But, we are not familiar with the capabilities of the application and the features that it offers to deal with corrupted or damaged media files. This may take you by surprise, but you can repair corrupt MP4 and MOV files using VLC Player. VLC transcode abilities allow converting damaged MOV and MP4 videos into playable files. Alternatively, free download MP4 and MOV video repair tool for Mac and Windows.
At times, you may get an error message while attempting to access media files in VLC that shows that the files are broken, and the player cannot read it. It may prompt to ask for user permission to repair the file. Unaware of the repairing capabilities of VLC, we usually select ‘No’. Therefore, the next time you encounter a similar issue, and the application asks to repair MP4, MOV, AVI or other media files, click ‘Yes’.
Method#1: Repair Corrupt MOV & MP4 Files with VLC
Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Launch VLC Player; go to Media, and then select Convert or Save
Step 2: Next, add input files or streams that need to be transcoded, and then press Convert or Save
Step 3: In the Convert window that appears, provide the file name for the destination file
Step 4: Next, select the desired input Codec from the profile list.
Step 5: Press “Edit Selected Profile” button to check or edit a specified profile settings
Step 6: You can also select to add a new profile or delete any existing profile
Step 7: Next, press Start
This may help repair video files, therefore, making it playable in VLC and other media players. If not, there are other procedures that can also repair corrupt video files.
What Causes Corruption in MP4 & MOV Files?
Before proceeding further to another repair workaround, let’s look at the reasons that make MOV files inaccessible:
- At times, corruption in video files can be a result of a broken header
- Loss of internet connectivity while the video file is downloading
- Sudden power loss when the media file is playing in VLC or other apps
- Inappropriate or incomplete read or write operation may lead to error message
- Damaged video files can be due to compression issues
- Files downloaded via unreliable internet resources might not play
Method# 2: Replicate Video File to Gain Accessibility
Follow the steps below:
Step 1: To begin, create a copy of the original MP4 or MOV files
Step 2: Rename the video file to AVI
Step 3: Now, launch the VLC player
Step 4: Select VLC, then Preferences, and then click on Input or Codecs
Step 5: Then click on Save in the bottom section of the Preferences window
Step 6: Now, select Always Fix next to Repair AVI Files
Method #3 Video Repair Software for MOV and MP4
If none of the above-mentioned processes helps much in resolving the issue, you can try using Video Repair Software to repair your corrupt MOV and MP4 files. The tool has the capability to deal with all kinds of MP4, MOV corruption issues including broken file header, compression issues, etc.
Steps to Repair Video Files – MOV, MP4
Step 1: Upload all damaged or unplayable MP4 and MOV files to the software, as shown below:
Step 2: Once you click the ‘Repair’ button, the software will begin repairing your files and simultaneously fixes corruption of – header, slider, duration, movement, and sound.
Step 3: Preview all the repaired files before saving the videos to the hard drive.
Step 4: Now, select files and click the Save button to save all the files to a safe location.
More about the said software
Media files stored on hard drives (external or internal), memory cards, digital camera, smartphones, or other video storage devices can be repaired. The tool supports repairing of major video file formats such as MOV, MP4, F4V, M4V, 3GP, & 3G2 on the Windows & Mac platform.
Let’s watch the software in action
After the recovery process, the repaired media file can be stored on the external hard drive. Bulk video files can be fixed in just a few steps using the software. Available in different versions, the software is compatible with Windows and Mac OS X. Since no manual procedures ensure complete and guaranteed repair of media files, the tool can be considered as an efficient option to bring corrupt video files to a playable format.
Note: VLC is a free option to repair corrupt MOV and MP4 but it does so in multiple steps. With the Stellar Phoenix Video Repair Software, you can perform batch repair of multiple videos of different file formats in just 3 steps i.e. Upload, Repair and Save. This professional video repair software saves you a good amount of time and you can also approach to an expert for helpful repair advice.
About The Author
Vishal
Hello, world. I am a Mac data recovery expert @Stellarinfo. If you are facing a data loss problem on your MacBook, iMac, Mini and want to discuss with me, then send me an email at vishal.chaudhary@stellarinfo.com
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Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery
Stellar Data Recovery has the right Windows Recovery tool for all your data recovery..
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Stellar Phoenix Mac Data Recovery
Stellar Phoenix Mac Data Recovery program performs safe..
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Stellar Phoenix Photo Recovery
A comprehensive photo recovery software to restore photos, music & video files..
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Stellar Phoenix Video Repair
Powerful video repair tool for repairing corrupt or damaged MOV and other video files..
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful information. I just have repaired my corrupt MP4 Files with VLC through suggested step.
Amazing !!
After step 4, VLC just crashes on my Mac Mini. I am trying to repair 230 MB MP4 video file. How should I stop VLC from crashing. I really need to repair this video file.
Hi Richard,
I suspect that your video file is damaged to an extent where VLC is failing to to repair it. I recommend you use professional video repair tool to fix your damaged MP4. Click this link to download the demo software and preview/recover your video.
Do let us know your further queries.
Best Regards
Like VLC, is there any other free media tool or application that can repair a damaged MOV? I am using Windows 10. Thanks in advance.
Hi Ellen,
Is VLC failing to repair your corrupt media? If so, then your video file is beyond the repair of VLC due to severe damages. I can recommend you our video file repair tool called the ‘Stellar Phoenix Video Repair’. Please free download it on your Windows and repair / preview your video(s). To save the repair videos you will require to register the product.
Do let me know for your further queries.
Best Regards
Can QT Player also repair my damaged video files like MP4/MOV
from the Mac OS X Yosemite version?
Yes, it is possible but upto a certain extent. To do this, first make a copy of your original file and rename with .MOV.
Now, open VLC and go to the Preferences > Input > Then click on the ‘next to Repair AVI file’ option and choose ‘Always fix’. Finally, click on the save option in the bottom of your preferences Windows. This will help in resolving your query.
Thanks. This method works great for my crash mp4 file. It cashed because of HTC Cell phone out of power while recording.
Hi Vishal,
I don’t prefer to use VLC for mine MOV videos. But every time I launch the .mov video on Quicktime Player the screen turns out black with no visuals or sound. I badly need to get this MOV video running flawlessly. How can I send the file to you?
Hey Joy,
Kindly go through the article “QuickTime can’t play SD/HD MOV Videos? What should I do?” and free download Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software for a free trial. If you register the product, then you will be allowed to sent over the file to use for a repair. But first, try to fix the MOV video file at your end.
Thanks.
Stellar does not give preview
Hi Bryan,
Stellar Phoenix Video Repair Software shows the preview of files in demo version which are less than equal to 10 MB in size. In the registered version, the software shows a preview of files having file size up to 100 MB. Could you provide us more details about the video file which you are trying to fix?
Thanks
Vishal
Hi, I have also a problem with some video files (.MOV). I have tried to repair one of them (75 MB) with the software demo but there is also no preview. I would like to ensure that the software can help me before buying it. The two first solutions does not work.
Can you help me ?
Thanks
Stéphanie
Hi Stephanie,
The demo version of Stellar Phoenix Video Repair Software shows the preview of file size less than or up to 10 MB, and in your case, the file you want to repair in demo version has a size larger than 10KB. Nevertheless, we provide free service in case our software fails to repair your files after purchase and ensure that your files are repaired successfully!!
Regards.
Sadly, VLC didn’t fixed my corrupt MP4 but I downloaded and paid for your software, it worked. Yes, the MP4 video is working correctly now. Thanks Vishal.
Hi Darrin,
Thanks for your input. Yes VLC is good for repairing minor problems on MP4 but it will not fix severe corruption of SD or HD videos. For repairing various corruption Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software addresses audio, video problems of MOV and MP4 files.
Thanks
My corrupted video is 1.24 MB. When I tried to view it after the Repair, the video wont play. Does that mean my video cant be repaired by the software? I am willing to purchase if this thing works because the videos corrupted are very important
Hi Steff. The software may not repair the files in case they are severely corrupted or damaged. Kindly send me your video sample, so that we can analyse it at our end and possibly try to render a solution. You can reach me sumona.chatterjee[at]stellarinfo.com
Hi Sumona. I just sent you an email with the corrupted video. Hope you could help me.
Sure!! Will try our best!
Hello Sumona,
I have the same problem. I guess our videos are severely corrupted because we recovered them from a CF card. Can i do the same and send you a video sample by email so you can analyse it and check the possibility to render a solution with your software?
Thnks a lot
Hi Paul, Please use Advance repair option in our software stellar phoenix video repair. Use this option to repair severely corrupted videos add a sample video of the same format, shoot using the same device. If your problem will be the same, our support team will help you also you can call us – +1-877-778-6087 or email – support[at]stellarinfo.com.
Thanks for the write up. I believe you mean “injest” the source video. Not “upload” which would be time consuming on most internet connections.
I’ve tried the software mentioned and none worked. Will give good ole’ VLC a crack soon. The problem I’m having is with recovered video files off a failed hard drive. Videos play initially, but crash when trying to seek.
Can you please tell me the type of video files which you have recovered but not playing well. Were you able to see the preview when you ran the demo version of the software?
They’re downloaded, HD videos in mostly .mp4 containers. The preview would be misleading since all of the videos start playing normally but crash when trying to seek, or hang after playing for a bit. All of the files I’m having trouble with are very large – upwards of 2GBs each in most cases. Thanks for your response!
You are really welcome! The software can only show the preview of file size less than or up to 10 MB in demo version.
Hi,
I cant able to preview the demo version 🙁
May I know the size of the file? The software can show the preview of file size less than or up to 10 MB in demo version.
So your demo software repaired my viddeo 8.56GB but I cannot save it. Why?
To save the repair videos you need to register the product.
Hey,
I had a large MP4 video that won’t play completely on VLC or Quicktime. I had planned to get it fixed. Unfortunately, on my MacBook Pro, I accidentally deleted this video file. I need it back to repair it and play it completely. What should I do right now?
As you have deleted it permanently, and I suppose you are not having any backup. The best way is to try a recovery software. You can opt for Stellar Phoenix Photo Recovery, which recovers Videos as well, apart from Photos and Audios.
Hey
I just recorded video using a sony camera. but after a while. it doesn’t appear on camera display, and when i transfer it, it also not appear. So is it possible to me to due this kind of operations?
Hello Fery,
Can you please share what kind of error message you are facing?
Since we know the importance of your data, please see my solution based on your query.
When you insert the SD card in the system, if the drive is accessible, but a video is corrupt, then please try a demo version of stellar phoenix video repair software. Otherwise, if the drive is accessible but the video is not seen, then try stellar phoenix photo recovery software demo version
I tried this software but it’s not working. Preview window is not displayed and program is unable to recover my video.
Hello Mario,
Sorry to hear about your problem.
Please once try to uninstall the software and again install it and then check the required video files. Please let us know if it doesn’t work.
Regards
Team Stellar Data Recovery
Greetings to the creator of the article, I give my thanks for sharing the information. I suppose the severity of my file is too large for VLC Player to repair, as the program crashes each time I use the Convert Option. May I ask if the demo version will have a preview that extends the file limit of ten megabytes, as I am not comfortable yet to pay $70 for a program to fix only one video.
I have video file from a Sony 4k video camera that didn’t complete because the battery died while the video was still recording.. it is a 4K file about 13Gb in size, tried VLC with no luck, tried your software but couldn’t get a sample to verify if it could work or not… any info on how to abbreviate an ending to this file so it is readable would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers,
Rick
Hello Rick,
Thank you for contacting Stellar Data Recovery.
Stellar software provides a partial preview for the video files. If you are able to play the file partially in the software then there is a high possibility of repair else file is severely corrupted and cannot be repaired.
yeah your software didn’t work on my mp4 files sadly nor did the VLC avi method. when i tried to preview the files under 10mb they didn’t play, not even the window popped up.
Hello James,
Please try to use below given activities
1. download and install the correct codec packs
2. use the updated video drivers
good day, we tried the demo version but unable to preview the videos, it did not even pop up a preview windows. We already tried to uninstall and reinstall the software.
Please assist thank you.
Hello Den,
Can you please confirm whether the video file is deleted or corrupted?
Good day, the video is corrupted.
Hello Den,
I want to inform you in a demo version of Stellar Phoenix Video Repair, the software will launch preview of files having a size less than or up to 10 MB.
Please check for file size and file extension of your video file
is there any money back guarantee? just in case the app did not work?
Hello,
I recently accidentally deleted some MOVs off my sd card which I successfully recovered. Unfortunately the MOVs are damaged and need to be repaired. They were shot in 4k and would like the quality to stay the same after repair.
Hello AJ,
It was really unfortunate that your MOVs files are damaged.
No worries, Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software helps you to repair all your damaged files. Please download the file from the official website and try to recover the damaged files.
Hi,
I recorded a video on my iPhone 6 (~400MB), and later moved it to the Private Photo Vault App. When I tried playing it back, the app gave me an “Unsupported video format (null)” error, so I think the file might have been corrupted. I tried fixing it with the free version of Stellar, however the software was unable to, saying that the file is too corrupted when I tried previewing it. I would like to know if I purchase the full version of Stellar, would it be able to fix the file? Otherwise do you provide support to fix it? Thank you.
Hello Dan,
Unfortunately, if the preview section of the software shows that the file is heavily corrupted then the chances of recovery from the software are very slim.
Although, I recommend to contact our support team at support[@]stellarinfo.com.
Also, please share the file extension in the query.
Hello there,
On June 9 2017, you replied:
“To save the repair videos you need to register the product.”
But in order to register you need to pay 69USD…
So , if I understand well, in order to use my repaired file I need to buy the Stellar, even if it is less than 10MB, although you don’t mention that anywhere.
Hello Kostas,
Yes, you are correct for accessing all your repaired videos, you need to purchase the software worth 69USD from the official website.
On the Stellar Phoenix Video Repair Product Page, please check below Download & Buy Button, it was clearly mentioned that – “Free Download provides preview of repaired video files”
Hi Team,
We are trying to repair Apple ProRes MOV file, file size is around 60 GB. We are able to play starting 5 Mins and end part, but 25 Mins of video is corrupt. We have found freeze frames and green patch on video. Can you please suggest, if Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software can repair this video file?
Hello Vijay,
You can quickly verify the output by using the free demo of Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software. We believe in transparency, i.e. our key strength.
Totally Agree! I was suffering to play my vacation video on VLC player, because my computer have all videos in vlc extension. My VLC player show “Codec” error. I follow these steps to repair my corrupt video files Thanks for giving me an Informative information about VLC player.
Hello Rudy,
Thanks for using our software. Please follow us on Twitter.
Hi there,
I can repair but video file is still not working. 🙁 Please help me!
Hello Joas,
Sorry to hear about your problem
If the video file is not repaired by Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software, it seems it was severely corrupted, please contact our support team on support[@]stellarinfodotcom. They will assist you.
Thanks for also offering free options with VLC for transcoding and fixing. To do batches of files with VLC you need v3 or newer of VLC. If I ever have a badly damaged file I will consider your product.
Hello Lars,
Thanks for your feedback.
Hi can someone help me to recover my file?
Hello Ruth,
Thanks for contacting Stellar Data Recovery
Please download the Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software to get back all your MP4 and MOV files. Below is the download link
For Windows OS – http://download.stellarinfo.com/StellarPhoenixVideoRepair.exe
For Mac OS – http://download.stellarinfo.com/StellarPhoenixVideoRepair.dmg.zip
The file is in my SD card 🙁 is all the video can be recover?
Hello Ruth,
We recommend to download the demo version of Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software and check the lost files in the preview section.
Download links
For Windows OS – http://download.stellarinfo.com/StellarPhoenixVideoRepair.exe
For Mac OS – http://download.stellarinfo.com/StellarPhoenixVideoRepair.dmg.zip
Not a single file was recovered successfully, does that mean the program doesnt work or that the files are too damaged
Hello Rutger,
Thanks for contacting Stellar Data Recovery.
Please let us know are you using the commercial Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software?
Also, it will be helpful to us to better answer your query if you let us know what exactly error occurring at your end.
Awaiting your response
I had the same problem on my computer when I play a movie in VLC that shows player can’t read it. Thanks for given the repair methods for corrupt Mov & mp4 files.
Hello Alice,
Thanks for using our repair methods.
i purchased the pro version of Stellar phoenix repair. After repairing the mp4 files, only 2 of the first 10 were playing can i send you all the files? I have people waiting on these videos
Hello Niel,
Thanks for contacting Stellar Data Recovery
As per the information the video files which are not getting played after the repair, are severely corrupted. They need to be repaired manually.
For more information about the manual repair, you may email to our Support Team. Their email address is given below:
support[@]stellarinfo[.]com
how to fix VLC Player audio and video Out of Sync on Windows OS?
Make sure that your video is playing and the audio syncing is incorrect. If you need audio requires to be slowed down then hit the ‘K’ hotkey from your keyboard. For the opposite of this hit the ‘J’ hotkey on your keyboard on Windows OS.
I followed Stellar Data Recovery’s process. The MP4 that I’m attempting to recover now shows up the right size – about 800mb – and the right extension – MP4. It will not play though, in VLC or quick player. What do I do next
Please share the file with our customer support (support[@]stellarinfo.com) or call +1-877-778-6087 (TOLL-FREE). I hope it will help you!
Hello,
I purchased a copy of the Stellar video repair, but it doesn’t fix the video correctly. With the demo version it created a clean copy that ran for 30 seconds, so figured the Stellar software would work for the whole video after purchasing. However the fully licensed stellar software creates a video that seems to flash every few seconds. It also only fixes half of the total video. It should be a video that is over 12 minutes, however I’m only getting a 6 minute video from the Stellar software.
Thanks,
Derek
Please follow below steps:
1) Uninstall the Stellar Phoenix Video Repair software by dragging it to trash.
2) Reinstall the software again on your Windows and MacOS.
3) Select your drive and launch the scan.
Try the above solution and if a problem exists, do let us know.
Thanks
how to get the registration key
Dear Malik,
Run demo version of the software.
1.Click Register icon from the main interface.
2.A Register dialog prompts.
3.Enter the registration key if you have.
4. If you don’t have a registration key , Get it now button in the window to go online and purchase the product.
5. Once the order is confirmed, a Registration Key will be sent to the email provided.
6.Type the Registration Key (received through email after purchasing the product) and click Register button (Please ensure that you have an active Internet connection).
7.The software will automatically communicate with the license server to verify the entered key. If the key you entered is valid, the software will be registered successfully.
8.The ‘Stellar Phoenix Video Repair Activated Successfully ‘ message is displayed after the process is completed successfully. Click OK.
Hi! I have a 13Gb Sony a6300 4k file, I’ve used the tool to preview it but it is very jumpy from frame to frame, will the software be able to repair it further if I buy it? Thanks for your help! Travis.
Dear Travis, Yes, you can purchase the software for download repaired file. If our software will show the preview of a corrupted file that you want to recover.
Hi. I have some dashcam avi-files which are corrupted. I tried to fix them using Stellar Phoenix Video Repair. It told that “Selected videos repaired succesfully. Click ‘Preview’ button to show repaired video.” But the preview did not function. Why the Stellar told that the video has been repaired succesfully when it was not?
Hi Matti, Please use Advance repair button to repair severely damaged videos. If the problem still is the same, please contact our support team through email support@stellarinfo.com or call us – +1-877-778-6087.
hi Sumona,
I tried repairing the mp4 video but it shows awaiting status and it prompts me for Advance repair. For that it says that I should put up a sample video. Will it recover or repair my damaged video? my file is arond 1.05GB.
Hi Sahil, Yes, when you put up a sample video on our software must have the same format using the same device, our software definitely repair your damaged file. Because your file size 1.05 GB it will take time, but repair the file. In case you didn’t get the result, you can directly call us at +1-877-778-6087 or email support@stellarinfo.com.
Hi,
After performing advance fix I am clicking on Preview and nothing popping up? How to confirm if fixing worked or not?
Please help.
Thanks
MD
Hi MD, Please attach files, Click the Checkbox and then click the advance repair button the pop will appear then click the next button before clicking the button you need to attach a sample video of the same format, shot using the same device. More Information you can call us +1-877-778-6087 or email support [at] stellarinfo.com
Hi
After using Advance Repair on my MP4 file it just keeps going back to advance repair even though I gave it a sample from the same source. What am I doing wrong.
Hi Dave, when you click the Action ‘Advance Repair’ the pop windows appear ‘click Next button’ add a sample file at the desired location then click repair. When the repair process is completed. You need to save repaired file at the same location so you can found easily.
Hello,
I recorded a video on my smartphone and copied it unto my pendrive. Unfortunately, the file corrupted on the pendrive and cannot play anymore. However, the file size displays when i highlight the file. I’ve tried the options above but none is working. What can I do?
Hi Jude, the reasons behind the options ‘not working’ because the video is more damaged. I suggest you can try our software Stellar Phoenix Video Repair Software demo version and you can see the preview of repaired files with sizes less than or equal to 10 MB.
i have recovered a vedio file and i repaired it with stellar software but i cant get result the vedio is not playing .what should i do with this how it can be worked
Hi Navin, There is the possibility video is more corrupt. I suggest please contact our support team call us +1-877-778-6087 or email us support[at]stellarinfo.com.
Hi Sumona, unfortunately my MP4 video got corrupted and size of file is 0 byte as of now.
how can i get my video file, please suggest best way to get video file.
Hi Mani, You can follow these steps as mentioned on our blog. In case if you not able to get the repaired file? you can try our software Stellar Video Repair help you to repair your damaged or corrupt files.