How to Fix WordPress Syntax Error in Code (Step-by-Step Guide)

A WordPress syntax error (e.g., “Parse error: syntax error, unexpected ‘}’ in functions.php on line 42”) can break your site, displaying a blank page or error message. These errors often stem from manual code edits gone wrong, leaving your site inaccessible. In this 2025 step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to fix WordPress syntax errors, even if you’re not a coder. With clear instructions, code snippets, and beginner-friendly tools, you’ll restore your site fast. Let’s dive in!

What Causes a WordPress Syntax Error?

Syntax errors occur when PHP code contains mistakes that prevent WordPress from executing it. Common causes include:

Manual Code Edits: Typos or missing punctuation (e.g., semicolons, brackets) in functions.php or plugins.
Copy-Paste Errors: Incorrectly formatted code snippets from blogs or forums.
Plugin/Theme Updates: Incompatible or buggy code introduced during updates.
Custom Plugins: Faulty code in custom-built plugins or snippets.
Improper File Editing: Saving files with incorrect encoding or line endings.

This guide covers 5 actionable steps to resolve syntax errors and prevent future issues, optimized for 2025 WordPress setups.

Prerequisites

Access to your WordPress admin panel (yoursite.com/wp-admin) and site files (via FTP or hosting file manager, e.g., SiteGround’s cPanel).
A backup of your site (use UpdraftPlus for free, reliable backups).
Basic WordPress knowledge (I’ll keep steps beginner-friendly!).

Note: Reliable hosting with staging simplifies code fixes. I recommend SiteGround for their robust WordPress tools and support.

Step 1: Identify the Syntax Error

Pinpointing the error’s location is the first step to fixing it.

Check the Error Message:
- Note the file and line number (e.g., wp-content/themes/astra/functions.php on line 42).
- Common files: functions.php, wp-config.php, or plugin files (e.g., plugin-x/plugin-x.php).
Enable Debug Mode:
- Access wp-config.php via FTP or file manager.
- Add before /* That's all, stop editing! */:

define('WP_DEBUG', true);
define('WP_DEBUG_LOG', true);
define('WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY', false);
Code language: JavaScript (javascript)

Save and visit your site to trigger the error.
Check wp-content/debug.log for detailed error info (e.g., “Unexpected ‘}’”).

Analyze the Log:
- Identify the file, line, and type of error (e.g., missing semicolon, unmatched bracket).

Why It Works: Debug mode provides specific error details, guiding you to the exact issue.

Pro Tip: Use Query Monitor (self-hosted) to view errors in the admin panel if accessible.

Step 2: Revert Recent Code Changes

Most syntax errors result from recent edits, so undoing them often restores your site.

Access the Faulty File:
- Via FTP, navigate to the file noted in the error (e.g., wp-content/themes/astra/functions.php).
- Download a backup of the file.
Revert Changes:
- If you have a recent backup (e.g., via UpdraftPlus), restore the file.
- Alternatively, open the file in a code editor (e.g., VS Code) and remove the recently added code (e.g., a snippet from a blog).
Test Your Site:
- Save, upload, and visit your site. If the error is gone, the reverted code was the issue.

Why It Works: Reverting faulty code eliminates the syntax error, restoring site functionality.

Affiliate Link: SiteGround offers easy file management via their cPanel.

Step 3: Fix the Syntax Error Manually

If you can’t revert changes or want to keep the code, fix the syntax manually.

Open the File:
- Use a code editor like VS Code for syntax highlighting.
- Go to the line noted in the error (e.g., line 42).
Check Common Issues:
- Missing Semicolon: Ensure every PHP line ends with ; (e.g., echo "Hello";).
- Unmatched Brackets: Verify { and } or ( and ) are paired correctly.
- Incorrect Quotes: Use matching single (') or double (") quotes.
- Example Fix:
  - Error: echo "Hello (missing quote)
  - Fixed: echo "Hello";
Save and Test:
- Upload the file and visit your site.

Wrapping Up

Fixing the WordPress maintenance mode stuck issue is straightforward with this 2025 guide. By deleting .maintenance, resolving updates, and using reliable hosting like SiteGround, you’ll keep your site accessible. Want more fixes? Download my Free WordPress Troubleshooting Checklist or explore my guides:

Share your maintenance mode fixes on X or ask below! Visit my Resources page for top tools.

Download the Free WordPress Troubleshooting Checklist

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