After Effects uses cache files to improve performance. Sometimes, these caches can become corrupted.
If the error persists in Safe Mode, the AEP file itself is damaged. Here is how to perform surgery on the file. After Effects uses cache files to improve performance
| Step | Action |
|------|--------|
| Reset Preferences | Hold Ctrl+Alt+Shift (Win) or Cmd+Option+Shift (Mac) while launching AE → click “Delete Preferences” |
| Clear cache & database | Edit > Purge > All Memory & Disk Cache |
| Disable “Allow Scripts to Write Files” | Edit > Preferences > Scripting & Expressions → uncheck the option, restart AE |
| Run Adobe Cleaner Tool (if error persists across reinstalls) | Download from Adobe – removes corrupted extensions/scripts | The error is almost always script‑related
The error is almost always script‑related. Note when it appears: If the file is corrupted at the structural
| When it happens | Likely cause | |----------------|----------------| | On opening a project | Missing or incompatible effect / plugin | | When running a script (e.g., animation presets, text scripts) | Script uses an old or wrong property name | | When adjusting a slider/checkbox in a MOGRT or template | Corrupted Essential Graphics property | | After duplicating a layer | Expression referencing a missing property path |
If the file is corrupted at the structural level (XML data corruption), you need to strip the metadata.
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve the issue. Close After Effects, wait a few seconds, and then reopen it.