How to Repair Corrupt MOV and MP4 Files with VLC?

Discovering a corrupted or damaged MP4 video file can ruin your day, especially if the video has sentimental value. Searching for solutions online can be overwhelming. That's why we've created this article to help you repair MP4 with VLC media player, which offers impressive features, including the ability to fix corrupt MP4 and MOV files. In this guide, we'll show you how to fix corrupted MP4 files using VLC and offer you a simpler solution for MP4 repair, so keep reading for the steps.

1. Part 1: Corrupted MP4 and MOV Files Overview
2. Part 2: How to Repair MP4 and MOV Video Files with VLC
3. Part 3: Alterntive Ways to Repair Corrupt MP4 and MOV Files
   • Fix 1: Use 4DDiG File Repair to Reapir MP4 & MOVHOT
   • Fix 2: Repair MP4 via QuickTime
4. Part 4: VLC vs 4DDiG File Repair- Why you Should Choose 4DDiG File Repair to Repair MP4 Files
5. Bonus Tip: How to Avoid Video Files Being Corrupted
6. FAQs about MP4 File Repair

Part 1: Corrupted MP4 and MOV Files Overview

In this part, we will dive into the causes of corrupt MP4 and MOV files. Being aware of the reasons behind this damage is crucial as it will help prevent such situations from occurring in the nearest future. We will also look into how a user can tell if a certain MP4 file is corrupt or damaged before moving on to how a user can repair mp4 file with VLC.

How Do You Know When An MP4 File Is Corrupt?

Recognizing when an MP4 file is corrupted is crucial to ensure timely repairs, as a delayed fix can lead to permanent data loss. Here are some signs that indicate an MP4 file may be corrupt:

• The MP4 file refuses to play.
• The video appears flickering, choppy, or blurry.
• Only the audio content of the file plays, with no video.
• Video and audio are out of sync.
• The video lags behind or stutters during playback.
• Your PC does not support the video format.
• You encounter a black screen when attempting to load the MP4 file.

What Causes Corrupt MP4 and MOV Files?

As earlier mentioned, knowing the causes of corrupt MP4 and MOV files is crucial as it will not only be the first step to take when applying a fix but will help prevent more corrupt video files in the future. Below are some of the most common reasons why we have corrupt MP4 and MOV files.

Lost or Damaged Data: Damaged or lost data are one of the causes of corrupt MPV and MOV files. During the transfer of data from one location to another through a variety of options such as intangible and tangible means, the data in question which is being transferred is prone to corruption. Due to a bad internet connection, media files may not be adequately transferred to servers. This can in turn lead to the loss of information or corrupt media files. Furthermore, Viruses and malware tend to intervene or obstruct the transfer of media files by altering the result, which in turn generates errors that signify damaged or corrupt files.

Error Writing or Reading data: The internal architecture of a file is redefined to effect the changes caused by editing. Such operations aren't always smooth as unforeseen circumstances can occur and could cause errors and damages in their wake. These unforeseen circumstances can be related to missing or poorly constructed data.

Part 2: How to Repair MP4 and MOV Video Files with VLC?

VLC media player can effectively repair damaged or corrupt MP4 and MOV video files thanks to its automated repair feature. However, it's important to note that this unique and impressive feature has a limitation – it exclusively supports the .avi video format. To overcome this limitation, you can opt to convert your MP4 or MOV files to the .avi format using VLC's convenient conversion feature. Follow the steps below to learn how to repair MP4 with VLC.

1. Open the VLC Media Player, navigate to and click on "Media." Proceed by clicking on "Convert/Save…."

   

2. Click the "Add" button and choose the MP4 or MOV file you want to convert. Then click the "Convert / Save" button.

   

3. In the "Convert" dialog, choose the desired output format, which should be AVI in this case. Click the "Browse" button to specify where you want to save the converted file and set a name for it. Afetrwards, click the "Start" button to begin the conversion.

   

4. When your MP4 file is converted to an AVI File, click on "Tools" in the menu bar of VLC and select "Preferences."

   

5. Go to the "Input & Codecs" option from the top panel. Scroll down to the "Files" section, and you'll find an option for "Damaged or Incomplete AVI File." Choose "Always Fix" from the dropdown menu next to it.

   
6. Click Start. VLC will work on repairing the corrupted video file. Once the repair is completed, you should have a functional video file in the format you selected, saved in the location you specified.

So that's how you can repair corrupt MOV and MP4 files with VLC.

Part 3: Alternative Ways to Repair Corrupt MP4 and MOV Files

In addition to VLC media player, there are alternative methods to repair corrupt MP4 and MOV files. These options may be particularly useful if you encounter issues with VLC or if you prefer to explore different tools and approaches to repair damaged or corrupt video files. Below, we'll discuss some alternative ways to effectively restore your valuable video files.

Fix 1: Use 4DDiG File Repair to Repair MP4 & MOV FilesHOT

4DDiG File Repair is a versatile tool that simplifies the process of repairing your MP4 and MOV video files. This method is listed first because it offers the easiest and fastest solution. In just three simple steps, you can restore your damaged video files to their original. The features of 4DDiG File Repair include:

• It is capable of repairing the common video formats we have today (MOV, MKV, MP4, 3G2, 3GP, etc).
• Videos that are jerky, choppy, fuzzy, or distorted can be repaired as well.
• It's compatible with both Windows and macOS and supports repairing files on USB flash drives, HDDs, and SD cards.
• It works with popular camera brands like DJI, GoPro, and Canon.
• It is safe and fast repair software.
• It can repair multiple videos in different formats simultaneously.

Follow the steps below to repair damaged or corrupt MP4 and MOV video files using 4DDiG File Repair software.

1. Download the 4DDiG File Repair software and install it on your Windows or macOS computer. Open the program, click on the "Fix Video Errors" option in the main menu and click Start.

   

2. Add your damaged or corrupt MP4 and MOV videos and click on "Start Repair" to proceed. The software will start to analyze and repair your MP4 and MOV files. 

   

3. Once the process is complete, you will be presented with the result from which you can preview and then export to a secure location.

   

Fix 2: Repair MP4 via QuickTime

This fix is for Mac users. The QuickTime media player is also capable of checking and fixing corrupt or damaged video files. Below are some of the steps to follow using QuickTime to fix damaged or corrupted MP4 or MOV files.

Step 1: Launch QuickTime and then try playing the video.

Step 2: Under the Window tab, click on "Show Movie Inspector." On the pop-up menu, you will find a detailed description of the video file. If it is a damaged or corrupt video file then expect to see a black background.

Step 3: Step two will determine if the video file is corrupt or not, if it is then the next step is to navigate to the QuickTime Menu and then click the "Edit" option.

Step 4: Select your preferences and proceed by clicking on "QuickTime Preference." Click on the "Update" button.

Now, try playing the video after restarting the QuickTime player.

Part 4: VLC vs 4DDiG File Repair- Why you Should Choose 4DDiG File Repair to Fix MP4 Files

In an attempt to determine which is better, we will equally compare both the VLC Media Player and 4DDiG File Repair software.

In terms of the type of video corruption, the scope of application, ease-of-use, benefits, and compatibility, 4DDiG File Repair software appears to be a better option as compared to VLC Media Player.

Bonus Tip: How to Avoid Video Files Corruption

Below are some really helpful tips on how a user can avoid damaged or corrupted video files.

• Before editing or making any changes that will alter the content of a video file, always make a copy of the original video file.
• We highly recommend using more than one back method. Doing this will make sure several alternatives are available when it comes to retrieving damaged or corrupt files. You can either make use of cloud storage, DVD, CD, or USB flash drives.
• Frequently update your antivirus software and operating system.
• Ensure your computer is working in optimal condition.

FAQs about MP4 File Repair

Below are the most frequently asked questions when it comes to repairing damaged or corrupt MP4 files.

How Do I Repair a Corrupt MP4 File?

A corrupt MP4 file can be repaired using the VLC media player or third-party software (4DDiG File Repair software is highly recommended).

Can VLC Repair Damaged Video Files?

Yes, the VLC media player is capable of repairing damaged or corrupt video files. However, it will require converting the video file to a supported format (.avi).

How Can I Repair a Damaged Video File?

This can be done with the use of third-party software like 4DDiG File Repair software.

Why Some MP4 won't Play on VLC?

In such situations, it means the MP4 file in question contains an encoding format that isn't supported by the VLC media player.

Conclusion

At this point, one should already know how to repair MP4 video files with VLC media player. The processes involved are quite simple. However, knowing how to repair corrupt MOV or MP4 files with VLC media player shouldn't be your only option as it is only effective when the degree of damage isn't heavy. Why repair corrupt MP4 with VLC when you can make use of effective third-party software specifically designed for such tasks? 4DDiG File Repair software is the best in the market as it is easy to use, safe, and reliable.