How to Fix Mac Error -43 — File Not Found [2026]

Mac Error -43: File Not Found

This error typically occurs when file moved or deleted while in use. Below you'll find 5 proven fixes to resolve it.

What Causes Mac Error -43?

Mac error -43 (File Not Found) can be triggered by several issues:

File moved or deleted while in use
Corrupted file metadata
Spotlight index corruption
External drive disconnected improperly
File name contains special characters

How to Fix Mac Error -43 — Step by Step

Rebuild Spotlight index

System Settings > Siri & Spotlight > Scroll down > Spotlight Privacy > Add your drive to the list, then remove it. This forces Spotlight to reindex.

Reset NVRAM/PRAM

Restart Mac, immediately hold Option + Command + P + R for 20 seconds. Release. This resets system settings that can cause file errors. (Intel Macs only — Apple Silicon resets automatically.)

Use Terminal to find the file

Open Terminal:
find / -name 'filename' 2>/dev/null
Replace 'filename' with the file you're looking for. This searches the entire drive.

Check Trash and Recently Deleted

Open Trash in Finder. Also check iCloud Drive > Recently Deleted. The file may have been moved there by a sync error.

Repair disk with Disk Utility

Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility > Select your drive > First Aid > Run. This repairs file system errors that can cause -43.

Still Getting Error -43?

IT Cares can diagnose and fix this error remotely — usually in under 30 minutes.

Call (581) 398-1270 Book Remote Session

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Mac error -43 mean?

The file or folder macOS is trying to access doesn't exist at the expected location. It may have been moved, renamed, deleted, or corrupted.

Can I recover a file with error -43?

Often yes. Check Trash, Time Machine backups, and iCloud Recently Deleted. If none work, data recovery software like Disk Drill can help.

Why does this happen with external drives?

Ejecting a drive improperly (pulling it out without ejecting) can corrupt file references. Always eject before disconnecting: right-click > Eject.

Does this affect all files?

Usually just specific files. If all files give this error, the disk may have file system corruption — run First Aid in Disk Utility.

Can special characters in file names cause this?

Yes. Characters like / : * ? in file names can confuse macOS. Rename the file to use only letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores.

How to Fix Mac Error -43 — File Not Found