Recover Corrupted MP4 File: 2 Ways For Windows and Online

MP4 is one of the most popular video formats today because it is lightweight and compatible with almost all video players. It’s commonly used to store not just video, but also audio, subtitles, and still images. MP4 is the go-to format for downloading and streaming videos from the internet, and nearly every video player supports it. To open an MP4 file, simply double-click it, and it will play in your default video viewer.

However, like any file format, MP4 files can become corrupted. When this happens, you may be unable to access the video, and an error message might appear, stating that the file is broken or unreadable. This can be frustrating, especially if you don’t have a backup.

So, how can you repair corrupted MP4 files? This article is here to guide you. It explains the common causes of MP4 corruption, offers effective solutions to fix the issue, and provides tips to prevent similar problems in the future.

How to recover corrupted MP4 file?

There are 2 choices for corrupted MP4 file repair. But before fixing, it is suggested to recover corrupted MP4 file first as it can enhance the success rate and ensure data safety. The specific steps are listed as below:

Prepare before performing MP4 file recovery

Using data recovery software like AOMEI FastRecovery is very important before fixing corrupted MP4 files. It helps save the file in its current condition, reducing the chance of further damage. If you try to repair a file directly from a damaged drive or USB, you might make things worse. Recovery software creates a safe copy of the file so you can work on it without risking more problems.

Sometimes, corrupted MP4 files are hidden or can’t be opened normally. Recovery software can find and restore these files, giving you the best version to fix. Repair tools also work better when they have more intact data, so recovering the file first improves the chances of fixing it successfully, and recovering the file also first makes the whole process safer and more likely to succeed.

Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI FastRecovery first, and then choose the exact partition or drive where the deleted files were originally located.

Step 2. Scan the selected drive. It will execute a Quick Scan first to find your data fast, followed by a Deep Scan to search for additional lost data comprehensively.

Step 3. Once the scan is complete, all recoverable files will be displayed. Kindly choose the specific files and then click Recover.

Step 4. Choose a destination folder to save the recovered files, and wait for the recovery process to finish.

Method 1. Perform MP4 file repair with VLC

VLC Player is a versatile open-source application widely recognized for its ability to play various video formats. One of its standout features is its capability to play video files that are only partially downloaded or slightly corrupted, often bypassing the need for immediate repairs. This makes VLC a practical choice for handling damaged MP4 files without requiring additional tools or complex fixes.

Beyond its playback capabilities, VLC also includes a built-in option for converting video formats, adding to its flexibility. This feature is especially useful if you need to change the file type to improve compatibility or resolve playback issues.

Step 1. Launch VLC Player and select "Media > Convert/Save...".

Step 2. Next, add a corrupted video and click "Convert/Save".

Step 3. In the Convert window that appears, look through the destination file, and click on "Start". Open VLC and click on "Preferences".

Step 4. Select "Always fix" in the "damaged or incomplete AVI file" option and click "Save".

Step 5. Try playing the corrupt .mp4 video file with VLC. It should play.

Method 2. Fix corrupted MP4 files online

Remo Video Repair is a reliable online tool for fixing damaged MP4 videos with ease. Despite its simple interface, it is capable of resolving various video issues for formats like MP4, MOV, AVI, MKV, etc,. across multiple storage devices, including computers, HDDs, SD cards, and memory cards.

While the software provides a demo version for testing, full access to its features requires purchasing the premium package, priced at $99.97. However, some users find the price too high, especially considering its limited support for file formats and the lack of a batch repair option.

Tips: About MP4 file corruption

The above guide can help you easily recover corrupted MP4 file. In addition to this, we are also glad to share some tips for you to better understand the MP4 files corruption to avoid further data loss. Once you lost any important data, please use AOMEI FastRecovery to get it back!

1. Why do MP4 files get damaged?

MP4, also known as MPEG-4 Part 14, is widely used for storing video and audio because of its compatibility with platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices. Despite its versatility, MP4 files can become damaged due to several common reasons:

Interruptions During Playback or Editing: Sudden disruptions, such as power outages or application crashes, can leave the file incomplete or with missing data, making it unreadable.

Virus or Malware Attacks: Malicious software can corrupt the file system or damage the MP4 file itself, preventing it from opening.

Problems During File Transfers or Downloads: Network interruptions or incomplete transfers can result in partially downloaded files prone to corruption.

Storage Device Issues: Faulty storage devices, such as hard drives with bad sectors or malfunctioning memory cards, can corrupt files during read or write operations.

Unstable Internet Data Transfers: Errors during uploads or downloads, often due to poor Internet connections, can lead to corrupted files on cloud servers or local devices.

Poor Handling of Storage Devices: Using damaged disks or operating devices under extreme conditions increases the likelihood of file corruption.

2. How to prevent MP4 file corruption

To keep your MP4 files safe, you should make extra copies and store them in different places like USB drives, cloud storage, or DVDs. It’s important to use storage devices that are in good condition and to handle them carefully to avoid any damage.

You should also update your computer and antivirus software regularly. This can protect your files from viruses and other issues that might harm them. With these simple steps, you can protect your MP4 files and avoid losing your videos.

Summary

MP4 is a versatile and widely-used video format, but like any digital file, it is not immune to corruption. Various factors, such as interruptions during editing, malware, faulty storage devices, or poor handling, can lead to damaged MP4 files. Fortunately, with the right tools and practices, you can repair corrupted files and prevent future issues.

Data recovery software, like AOMEI FastRecovery, helps secure your files before attempting repairs, while tools like VLC Player and Remo Video Repair offer effective solutions for fixing them. Additionally, following preventive measures, such as keeping backups, updating your antivirus, and handling storage devices carefully, can go a long way in keeping your MP4 files safe and accessible. By combining these approaches, you can safeguard your videos and ensure they remain intact for years to come.