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PdfDady

Repair a damaged PDF

“The file is damaged and could not be repaired”? Add the PDF and PdfDady rebuilds its internal structure from what is actually in the file, then checks that the copy opens. Results depend on the damage.

1. Add the damaged PDF

2. Download the repaired copy

Add a PDF that won't open or shows errors.

Repair can fix a broken file structure, but it can't bring back content that is missing, such as the end of an interrupted download. Keep your original file.

How to repair a PDF

  1. Add the damaged PDF

    Choose the file, up to 100 MB. Repair starts straight away.

  2. Structure rebuild

    The file's internal index (cross-reference table) is rebuilt from the objects actually in it. Content is copied as it is.

  3. Check

    The rebuilt copy is opened again to check that it opens and how many pages it has. If it can't be rebuilt, you're told so plainly.

  4. Download and check

    Save repaired.pdf and look through every page. Keep your original file.

What you can do with this tool

  • Fixes broken file structure

    A damaged or missing cross-reference table, wrong offsets, a missing trailer or junk before the header.

  • Content kept as it is

    Text stays text and images keep their quality; only the file's structure is rewritten.

  • Honest result

    You see how many pages the repaired copy has, or a clear message if the file can't be rebuilt.

  • Checked before download

    The repaired copy is opened again to check that it opens. Look through the pages yourself too.

  • Stays on your device

    Repair runs in your browser. Your file is not uploaded.

What it can and can't fix

InputOne PDF, up to 100 MB
Can fixDamaged file structureBroken or missing xref table, wrong startxref, missing trailer
Usually can't fixFiles cut shortFor example a download that stopped part-way: the missing part is gone
Can't fixEncrypted files, files that aren't PDFs
OutputOne PDF named repaired.pdf

Frequently asked questions

Why won't my PDF open?

Usually because the file was cut short (an interrupted download or email attachment) or saved badly, which breaks the index a PDF reader uses to find pages.

Can every damaged PDF be repaired?

No. A broken structure can usually be rebuilt, but content that is missing from the file can't be brought back. If the end of the file is missing, the pages stored there are lost.

Why did repair fail?

Most often the file is incomplete, for example a download or attachment that stopped part-way. The missing part can't be rebuilt from what's left; get a fresh copy instead.

What should I try first?

Download the file again from where it came from, or ask the sender to resend it. A fresh copy is better than any repair.

Does repair work on password-protected PDFs?

No. Remove the password first with Unlock PDF (you'll need the password), then repair the unlocked copy.

Will it fix blurry scans or wrong text?

No. Repair fixes how the file is stored, not what's on the pages.

Is my PDF uploaded?

No. The file is repaired in your browser and isn't uploaded.

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