If your Mac suddenly shows a strange message with “Error Code 43,” don’t panic. You’re not alone! Many Mac users bump into this mysterious code, and it can be frustrating. But guess what? It’s usually fixable—and preventable.
This guide will break it all down for you in a fun, simple way. So grab a coffee (or iced tea), and let’s fix this digital hiccup together.
What Is Mac Error Code 43?
First things first. What exactly does Error Code 43 mean? It usually pops up when you’re trying to:
- Move a file to the trash
- Drag a file to a different folder
- Copy, delete, or transfer files
Instead of going smoothly, the operation fails, and you see a message like:
“The operation can’t be completed because one or more required items can’t be found. (Error code -43)”
Ugh. So annoying. Luckily, understanding the causes can help you know what to do next.
Common Causes of Error Code 43
The error usually comes from one of these issues:
- File Name Problems – Mac can’t handle certain characters like
/,:, or\in file names. Old Windows files might bring these over. - Corrupted Files – If a file is broken or half-saved, Mac might throw a fit.
- Locked or In-Use Files – Trying to move or delete a file that’s currently open or locked? Mac says no.
- File Doesn’t Actually Exist – Sounds weird, but if the file got moved or deleted already, Mac gets confused.
- External Drive Issues – Sometimes the drive where the file lives has problems, especially with USB drives or SD cards.
Okay, So How Do We Fix It?
Good news: there are a bunch of different ways to tackle Error 43. Try these one at a time.
1. Check the File Name
Look at the file you’re trying to move. Does the name have a weird character like a / or :? If so:
- Right-click the file
- Select Rename
- Give it a clean, simple name like myfile.txt
Now try to move or delete it again.
2. Make Sure the File Isn’t in Use
If the file is open in any app, Mac won’t let you mess with it.
- Close any open apps
- Restart your Mac (to be safe)
- Try again
3. Unlock the File
Sometimes files are “locked” so they can’t be moved.
- Right-click on the file
- Click Get Info
- Uncheck the box next to Locked
If it was locked before, this should do the trick.
4. Use Terminal to Delete the File
Feeling brave? Terminal can help you remove the stubborn file.
- Open Terminal (Applications > Utilities > Terminal)
- Type:
rm -f - Drag the stuck file into the Terminal window
- Press Enter
Just be careful: Terminal doesn’t ask, “Are you sure?” It just does it.
5. Use Disk Utility
If you’re getting Error Code 43 from or on an external drive, Disk Utility might help.
- Open Disk Utility (Applications > Utilities)
- Select the drive
- Click First Aid
- Run the repair
This can fix hidden file system problems that may be causing the error.
6. Reset NVRAM and SMC
When in doubt, reset the basics. These resets fix a lot of Mac issues.
To reset NVRAM:
- Shut down your Mac
- Turn it on and immediately press and hold:
Option + Command + P + R - Hold for about 20 seconds, then release
To reset SMC:
This one depends on your Mac model. Google “SMC reset for [your Mac model]” to be sure.
How to Prevent Error Code 43 in the Future
Now that you’re Error-43-free, let’s keep it that way! Use these tips to avoid running into it again.
1. Use Friendly File Names
Always name files with letters, numbers, or basic symbols like - or _. Avoid slashes, colons, question marks, and other fancy symbols.
2. Safely Remove External Drives
Don’t just yank out that flash drive!
- Right-click and select Eject
- Wait until it disappears from Finder
This keeps things from getting corrupted.
3. Keep macOS Updated
Apple constantly fixes bugs. Make sure you get the fixes too.
- Click the Apple logo
- Go to System Settings > General > Software Update
- Install any updates waiting for you
4. Avoid Force Quit During File Actions
If you’re in the middle of moving or deleting files, don’t force quit apps or shut off your Mac. Give it time to finish.
5. Backup Regularly
If something does go wrong, you won’t lose your precious files.
- Use Time Machine or iCloud
- Set it to run backups automatically
Extra Tips and Tricks
- Try restarting your Mac if nothing else helps. It really works sometimes.
- If it’s one file causing the issue, try copying it to a new location before deleting it.
- Still stuck? Consider using a file cleaner or utility app like Onyx, CleanMyMac, or DaisyDisk.
Wrapping It Up
Mac Error Code 43 might seem scary at first, but now you know it’s not such a big deal. Most of the time, it’s just a wonky file name or an unhappy external drive. With the tips above, you’ve got plenty of tools up your sleeve to squash the error and keep moving.
So the next time that little -43 pops up? You’ll smile and say: “Nice try, Mac. Not today.”