How to Fix MOV Files Not Playing Using Video Repair Tools

By Daniel Smith Sep 09, 2025 Fix Video

Have you encountered an error message when playing an MOV file, causing your video to shut off? This incident can be really frustrating and out of control, but it doesn't have to be the end. MOV file not playing errors can still be fixed and restored with the right video repair tools. So, if you’re someone experiencing this problem right now and is looking for ways to easily fix it, then you’re on the right page.

In this guide, we’ll show you two straightforward methods to repair your MOV files and make them playable again. With the help of reliable video repair tools, you can quickly restore your videos without losing quality. By the end, you’ll have easy solutions at hand to get your MOV files working smoothly once more.

MOV Files Not Playing
GUIDE LIST
Part 1. Why does MOV File Not Playing Error Occur
Part 2. How to Fix MOV File Not Playing on Windows/macOS
Part 3. FAQs about MOV Files Not Playing Error

Part 1. Why does MOV File Not Playing Error Occur

Of course, before we dive into the solutions to fix MOV file not playing issues, one striking question that will always be asked when encountering them is: Why do they happen?

MOV file is a video file format developed by Apple, commonly used for storing high-quality video, audio, and text. However, it is not immune to errors. Here are some common causes of the MOV file not playing issue:

File corruption

MOV files can become corrupted due to sudden system crashes, improper shutdowns, or interruptions during recording or saving. A corrupted header or missing video data makes the file unreadable.

Incomplete download or transfer

If a MOV file is only partially downloaded from the internet or gets interrupted during transfer from a device, the file structure becomes broken, resulting in playback errors.

Unsupported media player

Not all players support the MOV format. Without the correct codecs, your system may fail to decode and play the video properly.

Outdated software

Another reason is using old versions of media players, operating systems, or drivers, as they may prevent smooth playback of MOV files, especially if the file uses newer encoding standards.

Virus or malware infection

Malicious software can alter or damage file structures, making MOV files inaccessible or unplayable.

Part 2. How to Fix MOV File Not Playing on Windows/macOS

Now that you know the common reasons why MOV files may fail to play, the next step is finding the right solution to bring them back to life. The good news is that fixing a MOV file not playing error is often simpler than it seems. Whether you’re a Windows or macOS user, there are reliable methods and tools available that can help restore your MOV video files and make them playable again. Below are the two best video repair tools you can use to easily repair corrupted MOV files:

Method 1: Using ArkThinker Video Repair

When dealing with corrupted or damaged videos, ArkThinker Video Repair is one of the best tools to have. This MOV repair tool is designed to quickly and effectively restore corrupted or damaged MOV files, along with other popular formats like MP4, AVI, MKV, and 3GP. It uses advanced repair technology, including an option to upload a sample video, to reconstruct file structure accurately and recover both video and audio quality.

Moreover, one of its standout features is its clean and beginner-friendly interface, making the repair process easier. Lastly, users can preview their repaired MOV video file, allowing them to review their videos before saving them.

Main Features:

• Supports not only MOV, but also MP4, 3GP, and other popular formats.

• Repairs videos up to 3× faster than other video repair tools.

• Integrates AI technology for accurate and seamless restoration.

• 99% success rate in fixing corrupted video files.

• Restores files from corrupted or damaged devices.

• Allows preview of repaired videos before saving.

• Compatible with Windows and macOS.

• Ensures privacy and security with encryption and no data collection.

Steps on How to Use ArkThinker Video Repair:

Step 1

First, you need to download and install the tool on your computer. Take note that this software tool is available both on Windows and macOS.

Step 2

Once installed, launch the tool and click on the right part of your screen to upload the sample video. Meanwhile, on the left part of your screen, click on it to upload the MOV file that is not playing that you want to fix.

Arkthinker upload

Note: The format of the sample video must be the same as that of the corrupted video you want to fix. After that, click the Repair button.

Arkthinker Repair
Step 3

After the video has been fixed, click the Preview button to preview the repaired video. Then, click Save to export.

Arkthinker Save

ArkThinker Video Repair simplifies the repair of the MOV file not playing error. Moreover, with its AI technology integration, it can automatically analyze the root cause of the error and restore the MOV video file with higher accuracy. This ensures that even severely corrupted videos can be repaired without significant loss of quality.

Method 2: Using Wondershare Repairit- Video Repair

Another tool that you can use to fix MOV files not playing issues is the Wondershare Repairit- Video Repair. This video repair tool offers two repair modes: the quick repair and the advanced repair. With quick repair, users can quickly resolve common playback errors. Meanwhile, with the advanced repair, users will need a sample MOV file to restore more severely corrupted videos. The software is user-friendly, supports various video formats, and even allows you to preview the repaired file before saving it, making the whole process simple and efficient.

Main Features:

• Fixes playback errors such as freezing, stuttering, or failure to open.

• Offers Quick Repair for minor damage.

• Provides Advanced Repair for severe corruption requiring a sample file.

• Supports batch video repair.

• Compatible with both Windows and Mac.

Steps on How to Use Wondershare Repairit - Video Repair:

How to Use Wondershare Repairit - Video Repair:

Step 1

First, you need to download and install the tool on your computer.

Step 2

Launch the tool and click on the Video Repair to load the corrupted MOV file that you want to repair.

Wondershare Repairit Video Repair
Step 3

Now, click on the Repair button below to start repairing the MOV file.

Wondershare Repairit Click Repair Button
Step 4

Play the preview video to check if it has really been repaired. If you’re good to go, just click on the Save button.

Wondershare Repairit Click Repair Save

While Wondershare Repairit – Video Repair effectively repairs MOV files that are not playing video, it can be slower with larger videos, and some features are only available in the paid version. Nevertheless, it's a great video repair tool to start with.

Part 3. FAQs about MOV Files Not Playing Error

How long does it take to repair a MOV file?

The repair time depends on the file size and level of corruption. Most of the time, smaller MOV files may take just a few seconds, while larger or severely damaged ones could take longer.

Can I repair a MOV file stored on a USB or external drive?

Yes. Just connect the drive to your computer and load the MOV file into a video repair tool like ArkThinker Video Repair. The software can scan and repair files from external storage without affecting other data. Once the repair is complete, you can save the restored MOV file back to your USB or transfer it to your computer.

How do I open an MOV file that won’t open?

If your MOV file won’t open, first try playing it in a different media player like VLC or QuickTime, as they support more codecs. If it still doesn’t work, the file may be corrupted. In that case, use a video repair tool such as ArkThinker Video Repair to fix the file and restore it so it can be opened normally.

Conclusion

The MOV Files not playing issue can be a really frustrating encounter. However, with the right tools, it can easily be fixed. With ArkThinker Video Repair and Wondershare Repairit - Video Repair, you have two effective solutions to restore corrupted or damaged MOV files. Both tools offer reliable ways to fix video playback problems, so the choice simply depends on which features and interface best suit your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Try one of these video repair tools now!

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