9 Ways to Fix iPhone Error 4013 or iTunes Error 4013

The iPhone could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (4013)

Is this statement familiar to you? Taken that you are here to look for a fix, the question seems almost rhetoric. This is a common error with iOS devices. The error is known as iPhone Error 4013. It has also earned a popular moniker of “iTunes Error 4013” because it generally occurs when you are trying to restore an iOS device with the help of iTunes. While the iPhone models affected by this error are usually iPhone XR and iPhone XS (Max), it could happen to any iOS device that uses iTunes, which also includes the iPad and iPod touch.

The process of fixing this problem can feel infuriating and complex. However, here in this article, you will find 9 well-explained methods that help resolve the 4013 issue without making it sound too complicated. Our methods are easy solutions for all models. Whether you are looking to solve the Error 4013 on iPhone 5s or Error 4013 on iPhone 6, these solutions should get you a positive result.

But first, let’s learn more about this issue.

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What is iPhone Error 4013 (or iTunes Error4013)?

iTunes/iPhone Error 4013 is often a hardware-related issue that is a result of using either a defective USB cable or USB port. In short, it is a connection error which indicates communication issues between an iOS device and iTunes.

When Does This Error Occur?

This error crops up when you are trying either to update your device’s software (iOS) version or to restore it. Error 4013 is mostly caused when the iOS device disconnects from iTunes resulting in an unfinished or hindered update/restore process. More than often, this error occurs due to a software bug. However, in some cases, it might as well be the result of hardware failure.

How Does the Error Effect Your iPhone Device?

The iPhone Error 4013 prevents iTunes from updating and iPhone from restoring. A message pops up saying “The iPhone [device name] could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (4013).” However serious and complicated this problem might sound, it is fixable. One of our 9 methods should solve this issue.

In addition to Error 4013, you might also face error 9, 4005, and 4014. All these errors are related to each other and the steps in this article should provide a solution for all four of them.

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Method 1

Check Your Internet Connection. There is a good chance that though your phone is connected to the Internet, the signals are not strong enough. If you have been using your phone data, then try switching it to Wi-Fi. If you are already using Wi-Fi, sit near to the router or try switching the network on and off to ensure the signals are strong enough. Disconnect both, your device and PC/Mac from the Internet and reconnect them after taking a short break of 5-10 minutes. If you are still not sure about the network, try using another, if there is an option available for you to do so.

Method 2

Update iTunes to the Latest Version. Frequently the error is caused due to an outdated version of iTunes. Since the media player is essential to both restoring and updating process, it is imperative that you use the latest version. You could face Error 4013 if you are trying to run and restore the iOS device with an outdated version of iTunes. Therefore, if you haven’t done it yet, update iTunes and try again.

Or/And

Update Your PC or Mac– If you are already using the latest version of iTunes, then maybe your PC or Mac is the culprit. Just like an outdated iTunes, outdated software on your PC/Mac can also cause the error to occur. Check for updates, install them, and then try to update/restore your device again.

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Method 3

Restart Your Device. This is simple and, in most cases, a surprising solution to resolving this issue. Restarting the device helps because sometimes errors like 4013 can be a result of a temporary internal software glitch. The restart may be able to fix it. In this case, you might want to use the “force restart” or “hard reset” option, which is a complete reset. Once the device has restarted, you can try to update or restore it again.

Method 4

Check Storage. Sometimes, the error occurs due to a lack of storage. Since, a software update on the iOS device can take a lot of space, make sure you have it to be able to successfully complete the process. Clean your device by deleting all unused files and uninstall random applications that you seldom use or need. You can begin with erasing cookies, caches, browser search history, and log. You can also check for double-saved photographs and delete the copies. Additionally, space can be accommodated by cleaning unimportant messages, such as on applications like WhatsApp.

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Method 5

Reset All Settings. If the issue persists even after you have restarted the device, then go to the set and reset them all. However, this method does put your data at risk, since resetting would mean it will be erased from the system. It is recommended that you first take a backup of all your data on iCloud or iTunes before resetting your device.

Method 6

Connect Device to iTunes. If the issue is not fixed by either updating the iTunes or restarting the device, connect it to a PC with the help a USB cable. As soon as you do that, the media player will ask whether you want to Update or Restore. While choosing “Update” will reinstall the operating system without erasing your personal data, selecting “Restore” will delete all your data. However, if updating the device does not work, restoring it may be your last resort, unless you are willing to use third-party software.

Method 7

Use a Different USB Cable and Try Again. In case the error is a result of hardware glitch, using a different USB cable should help. Make sure you are using authentic Apple cable. If changing the USB cable does not resolve the issue, it could be the USB port. In this scenario, you could try using another PC to update or restore your device.

Method 8

Enter DFU Mode. If none of the solutions mentioned above work, your final resort will be to enter the DFU mode. While this method will definitely work, it will be at the expense of your entire data. You will lose all your media files such as photos and videos, applications that did not come installed as default, messages, and custom settings. Since the method will restore your device to the factory mode, the issue must be solved.

To put your device on DFU mode:

• Connect it to the PC/Mac and launch iTunes

• Press and hold Sleep/Wake and Home buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds

• After 10 seconds, release the Sleep/Wake button while still holding the Home button

• A message will pop up that will read “iTunes has detected an iPhone in recovery mode.”

• Now release the Home button

• Immediately your device’s screen should black out and then you can restore it

Method 9

Contact Apple. If even the DFU mode does not solve the error, then contact Apple Store. When nothing has helped in solving Error 4013, maybe it’s time that experts take over. Also, not being able to resolve the problem even after resetting and restoring the device can indicate a serious hardware problem. In that case, the professionals with access to top repair options will be able to help you best

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Contacting Apple is easy. Just go on their website, Apple support, and click on the device you want repairing. For example, if it is your iPhone showing the reoccurring message of Error 4013, click on iPhone and scroll down the page until you see the “Tell Us How We Can Help You” option. Click on it and the window with multiple problem-related options will surface. Follow the two steps:

“Repair & Physical Damage” > “Unable to update or restore”

Apple will provide you the option to either call them or take the phone to the nearest store. You can choose either depending on which one suits you the best.

These were the 9 effective solutions to iPhone Error 4013. While, there multiple third-party software which can help you solve this issue without losing the data, it should not be necessary to invest in them. We recommend you try all these methods before moving on to use any software. While trying 9 different methods might feel a lot like hectic trial and error process, it will help you handle the situation better and without risking your personal information or your money.

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