iPhone Error 4013: 8 Proven Ways to Fix Restore & Update Issues (2025)

What is the iPhone Error 4013?

iPhone or iTunes error 4013 is often referred to as a restore error. It usually occurs when there’s an issue preventing iTunes from communicating with your device during an update or restore process. This error can affect iPhones as well as iPads and iPods.

When this issue arises, you’ll typically see a pop-up message saying something like this:

"The iPhone [Device Name] could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (4013)."

While the message might seem cryptic, it’s usually tied to hardware or software glitches that require immediate attention.

Common Causes of Error 4013

There are several reasons why you might encounter this error. It is mostly caused by a faulty USB cable, damaged USB port, third-party security software, or in-built firewall system of your computer. In other words, the error is a connection error that implies there are communication issues between your iOS device and iTunes.

• Faulty Cable or Port: A damaged or low-quality USB cable or port can disrupt the connection between your iPhone and computer.
• Insufficient Storage: If your device doesn't have the necessary space for an update, it may trigger this error.
• Outdated iTunes Version: Using an old version of iTunes can lead to compatibility issues.
• Software Bugs: Corrupt iOS firmware or bugs in your system may also result in error 4013.
• Hardware Defects: Hardware issues, like a damaged iPhone motherboard, could be the culprit.

Whatever the cause, tackling the issue promptly is crucial to avoid further disruptions.

Part 2. How to Fix iPhone/iTunes Error 4013?

Struggling with the frustrating iPhone Error 4013? Don't worry, you're in the right place. This error can pop up during an update or restore, but it's often fixable. To help you quickly find the best solution for your situation, we've created this summary table. Find the method that best suits your technical skill, time, and data-safety needs.

Quick Solutions Overview: Find Your Best Fix for Error 4013

Method 1: Use a Professional System Repair Tool (No Data Loss)

There are a lot of different solutions to the iPhone 4013 error. However, the problem is that it's hard to diagnose exactly where the issue lies, so most of the solutions work on a trial-and-error basis. That is, you try out something, and if it doesn't work out, you try the next thing. This can be an extremely tiresome and long process, it doesn't promise results, and it can also involve serious risks to your data security. However, if you'd like a one-touch solution, something that can immediately diagnose the problem and safely fix it, then you should use a third-party software called Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS).

Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS) is a trusted tool that simplifies complex iOS repair processes. It’s designed to resolve common iPhone errors, including error 4013, with ease.

Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS)

Fix Your iPhone/iTunes Error 4013 Quickly and Safely!

• Fix with various iOS system issues like Recovery Mode, white Apple logo, black screen, looping on start, etc.
• Fix your iPhone stuck in Recovery Mode, no data loss at all.
• Work for all models of iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
• Fully compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS

Available on: Windows Mac

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Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Error 4013 with Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS)

Here’s how to use Dr.Fone to resolve error 4013 efficiently:

• Step 1. Download and launch Dr.Fone. From the main menu, choose “System Repair” > “iPhone”.

• Step 2. Then, connect your iPhone to your computer using an Apple-certified USB cable.
• Step 3. Select “4013 Error Repair” Mode.

• Step 3. Your device will be required to enter Recovery Mode. Follow the step-by-step guide to put the iPhone into Recovery Mode. And then, you will see a list of different iOS firmware available now. All you have to do is click on 'Download'. The download will take a while, depending on your internet connection.

• Step 4. After the download, it will automatically start scanning your device for problems and fix it. You will soon get a message that "Repair complete!". This means that your device has been fixed. The whole process shouldn't take much longer than 10 minutes, and you won't have to do anything yourself!

This process should ensure that whatever the reason may be, it will be fixed for good.

Tips: iTunes 4013 error, unfortunately, persists after these steps? Something must be wrong with iTunes. Go to repair your iTunes components and try again.

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Method 2: Check Your Computer's Firewall and Internet Connection

When iPhone error 4013(iTunes error 4013) occurs, it may relate to your computer itself. If your computer has some issues, it may be the source of the error 4013. This is what you should do:

• Step 1. Check whether your computer's internet is working fine. If not, just reconnect the internet or restart your WIFI.
• Step 2. Check the third-party security software or in-built firewall system on your computer, close it, and try again.
• Step 3. Check your computer version and update it to the latest, then have a try.
• Step 4. Try another computer to connect your iPhone with iTunes.

If your computer is fine, then check the connection of your USB port.

Method 3: Inspect Your USB Cable and Port for Damage

When iPhone error 4013 (iTunes 4013 error) pops up, then it's highly likely that the problem is hardware-related. So you should start by checking to see that all your USB ports and connectors are working fine. This is what you should do:

• Step 1. Make sure you are using an Apple USB port.
• Step 2. Check the cable connection if it connects properly.
• Step 3. Reconnect the cable to see if it works.
• Step 4. Use a different USB port.
• Step 5. Try to plug into another PC.

If you try out all these methods and nothing works, then your USB connection is fine, and you should move to Solution 1 to fix iTunes error 4013 without losing data.

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Method 4: Repair iTunes Components Using an iTunes Repair Tool

As we already mentioned, iPhone error 4013 is also called iTunes error 4013. This is because this error only comes when trying to restore iPhone 15/14 or any other iPhone model using iTunes. It might be possible that your iTunes is corrupted, or maybe your iTunes version is obsolete. In this case, you should get your iTunes repaired to a normal state.

First, check whether your iTunes is the latest version. iPhone/iTunes error 4013 may happen because your iTunes version is out of date. If not, just update your iTunes.

Dr.Fone - iTunes Repair

The ultimate solution to diagnose and resolve iTunes errors

• Remove all iTunes errors like iTunes error 9, error 21, error 4013, error 4015, etc.
• Resolve all issues when you fail to connect or sync iPhone/iPad/iPod touch with iTunes.
• Device data kept well while fixing iTunes issues.
• Repair iTunes to a normal state within 2-3 min.

Available on: Windows Mac

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• Step 1. Install and open Dr.Fone - iTunes Repair on your computer. Then select "System Repair" from the main screen.
• Step 2. In the new screen, select "Toolbox Repair" > "iTunes Repair"> "Repair iTunes Errors". Then the tool will scan and verify whether iTunes components are complete.

• Step 3. If it still pops up after the verification, you need to opt for "Advanced Repair".

• Step 4. If iTunes 4013 still cannot be fixed, you need to connect your iOS device to the computer and select "Repair iTunes Connection Issues" to fix.

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Method 5: Reset All Settings on Your iPhone

• Step 1. Restart your iPhone 13/12/11/XR, iPhone XS (Max), or any other iPhone model.
• Step 2. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings.

This method also puts you at risk of data loss, so you should first backup iPhone data to iCloud or iTunes. Or to make all things easier, go to Solution 1 to fix iPhone error 4013 by keeping iPhone data intact.

Video tutorial: How to Reset All Settings on iPhone?

Method 6: Free Up Storage Space on Your iPhone

The iPhone error 4013 occurs while updating the iOS. So the problem may arise if there isn't enough space in your iPhone to accommodate a new update. So you should make sure there's enough space, and if not, then clean up the iPhone.

Video tutorial: How to Clean up your iPhone?

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Method 7: Enter Recovery Mode and Try Again

To fix iTunes 4013 or iPhone 4013, you can also try to factory reset your iPhone. Below are the steps to fix it via factory reset.

• Step 1. Firstly, back up your iPhone.
• Step 2. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Reset"
• Step 3. Choose the "Erase All Content and Settings".
• Step 4. Enter your passcode.
• Step 5. Tap on "Erase iPhone"

Note: Factory resetting will bring you troubles like setting up the iPhone again, restoring data from iTunes/iCloud, etc. To prevent these troubles, go to Solution 1 for system repair without data loss.

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Method 8: Enter DFU Mode for a Complete Restore (Advanced & High Risk)

If none of the previous advice worked, you should be prepared to put your device into DFU mode. Take this option only as your last resort, as it is something that will surely work. Still, it will cost you all the data you have on your Apple device (including all the applications but the default ones, all pictures, videos, etc.), as it will practically wipe our anything you have on your iPhone or iPad and restore it as new. So, how to put your iPhone 13/12/11/XR, iPhone XS (Max), or any other iPhone model into DFU mode?

• Step 1. Connect your iPhone to the computer and launch iTunes.
• Step 2. Press and hold the Sleep/Wake Button and Home Button simultaneously for 10 seconds.

• Step 3. After that, release the Sleep/Wake Button but continue to press the Home Button until iTunes says, "iTunes has detected an iPhone in recovery mode".

• Step 4. Release the Home Button. Your iPhone's screen will be completely black. If it's not, try the above steps again from the beginning.
• Step 5. Restore your iPhone with iTunes.

Video tutorial: How to Restore iPhone in DFU mode?

And if none of these tips work, then you should contact Apple because it's likely that your problem might be more internal and deepest.

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Part 3. Fixing Error 4013 on Specific iPhone and iPad Models

iPhone 6 / 7 / 8 Error 4013

For older models like the iPhone 6, 7, or 8, error 4013 is often linked to an aging battery or a faulty charging port. Before attempting a DFU restore, first try a different certified cable and ensure your device has at least 50% charge. Follow steps 2 and 3 carefully.

iPhone 12 / 13 / 14 Error 4013

On newer models, error 4013 is more commonly a software glitch or an issue with the latest iOS version. Using a dedicated system repair tool (Method 1) is highly effective. Also, ensure your Mac or PC's operating system is fully updated before retrying the restore via Finder or iTunes.

iPad Error 4013

iPad users facing error 4013 should follow the same steps. However, pay special attention to the USB-C port on newer iPad Pro models, as debris can easily cause connection issues. Cleaning the port gently with a soft brush can sometimes resolve the error instantly.

Part 4. How to Avoid iTunes Error 4013 in the Future?

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to keep error 4013 at bay:

• 1. Always use high-quality, Apple-certified cables and ports.
• 2. Update iTunes regularly to ensure compatibility with the latest iOS.
• 3. Make sure your iPhone has enough storage space before performing updates.
• 4. Regularly back up your device to protect your data in case of errors.
• 5. Keep your iPhone software updated to reduce the risk of bugs or glitches.

By following these best practices, you can minimize the chances of encountering error 4013 again.

Bonus Tips: How to restore iPhone from backups without iTunes?

If you meet error 4013 when you try to restore your iPhone via iTunes, then you can use Wondershare Dr.Fone to restore iTunes backup to iPhone without iTunes. Dr.Fone enables you to restore the backup to iPhone/iPad devices selectively and will not overwrite any existing data on your device.

Check how to restore iPhone from iTunes backup without iTunes here: Restore iTunes backup to iPhone selectively.

Wondershare Dr.Fone

Access and restore iTunes backup when iTunes is down

• Read and access the encrypted contents in iCloud/iTunes backups.
• Selectively backup, preview, and restore any data you want.
• Export what you want from the backup to your computer.
• No data loss on devices during the restoration.
• Supported the newest iPhone that runs with the newest iOS
• Fully compatible with Windows or Mac OS.

Available on: Windows Mac

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Frequently Asked Questions about iPhone/iTunes Error 4013

Conclusion

So you now know what is iPhone error 4013, and why it occurs. You also know all the different methods you can try to fix it yourself. Due to the uncertain nature of iPhone error 4013, it is hard to arrive at a strong diagnosis, which is why you would have to engage in a lot of trial-and-error methods, which would also put you at risk of data loss. However, we recommend that you use Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS), as it will scan your entire system and fix whatever problem is there, all without any data loss.

What to Do If Error 4013 Persists

If the error persists despite using Dr.Fone, it might indicate a deeper hardware issue. Consider reaching out to Apple Support or visiting an authorized repair center for assistance.

Whatever you decide to do, keep us posted down on the comments. If you find another solution to the problem, be sure to let us know!

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