API Route Returns 500 Error - Internal Server Error
Your API route returns a 500 Internal Server Error even though the code looks correct. The same logic works fine when tested manually.
Frontend gets error when calling the route, but no detailed error message.
Error Messages You Might See
Common Causes
- Unhandled exception in route handler
- Database connection failed or query error
- Missing required parameters or wrong parameter types
- Environment variable undefined in production
- Async/await syntax error or promise rejection
How to Fix It
Add comprehensive error handling: try { ... } catch(e) { return NextResponse.json({ error: e.message }, { status: 500 }) }
Log errors: console.error('Route error:', e) to see details in logs
Check all parameters: ensure request.json() actually contains expected fields
Verify env vars loaded: console.log(process.env.VAR) at route start
Test with curl or Postman to isolate frontend from issue
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Get HelpFrequently Asked Questions
How do I debug API route errors?
Add console.log/console.error throughout the route. Check deployment logs. Test with curl
What's the best way to handle errors?
Use try/catch. Return meaningful error messages and status codes (400 for bad input, 401 for auth, 500 for server)
Why would route work locally but fail on deploy?
Missing env vars, different database URL, or permission issues. Verify all env vars set in deployment