Mac

A specific app keeps crashing on Mac

When one particular app crashes repeatedly while everything else runs fine, the cause is almost always specific to that app: a corrupted preference, an outdated version, or a conflicting file it's trying to open.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
20–40 minutes
DIY cost
$0
Pro cost
$0

Symptoms

  • The same app quits unexpectedly or shows a crash report
  • Other apps run normally without issue
  • Crashes happen at a specific point, like opening a certain file or menu
  • Crash reports mention the app by name repeatedly

Likely causes

  • CommonAn outdated version of the app incompatible with the current macOSApp updates often fix crashes related to newer macOS versions.
  • CommonA corrupted preference file specific to that appPreference file corruption is one of the most common causes of a single misbehaving app.
  • PossibleA corrupted or incompatible file the app is trying to openSome crashes are triggered by a specific document or project file.
  • PossibleInsufficient memory for what the app is trying to doResource-heavy apps like video or photo editors are more sensitive to this.
  • PossibleA conflicting plugin, extension, or add-in within the appSimilar to browser extensions, these can destabilize the host app.

What to do

  1. Update the app to its latest version from the App Store or the developer's site.
  2. Check for macOS updates as well, since compatibility fixes often go both ways.
  3. Restart the Mac, since a fresh restart can clear temporary conflicts.
  4. Try opening a different, simple file in the app to see if the crash is tied to a specific file.
  5. Remove or rename the app's preference file (usually in ~/Library/Preferences, named something like com.company.appname.plist) and relaunch, which resets its settings to default.
  6. Disable any plugins or extensions within the app if it supports them, testing one at a time.
  7. Check Activity Monitor for available memory when the crash occurs, especially with resource-heavy apps.
  8. If crashes continue, uninstall and reinstall the app completely, or check its support forums for known issues with your macOS version.

Tools and parts

  • None required

When to call a pro

For a specialized professional app, the software developer's own support is often more helpful than general Mac repair for crash-specific issues.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.