
iPhone Unavailable Timer Not Going Down [4 Best Solutions]
Feb 26, 2025 • Filed to: Remove Screen Lock • Proven solutions
Having your iOS screen locked after trying to guess the forgotten passcode can be a tough situation to face. Apple provides lockout periods between attempts to give you ample time to guess the correct screen lock. However, you may face a situation where the iPhone's unavailable timer is not going down at all. While the timer is designed to reset access after a set period, it gets stuck in some cases.
This deep dive into the "iPhone Unavailable" timer issue will explore the 4 best solutions to fix this dilemma. From simple troubleshooting techniques to advanced software tools, these methods will help you regain access to your mobile phone.
Part 1. Major Reasons for Why iPhone Unavailable Timer Not Going Down
The timer issue can be perplexing, especially when it seems like the lockout period never decreases. Several factors could be contributing to this frustrating problem, and a few major reasons behind the iPhone unavailable timer not going down:
- Repeated Wrong Passcode Attempts: One of the most common reasons for seeing the "iPhone Unavailable" screen is entering the wrong passcode multiple times. After several incorrect attempts repeatedly, the timer could extend or become stuck.
- Software Glitch: iOS devices can occasionally suffer from software glitches that can cause a whole range of issues for you. A bug in the iOS system could cause the timer to freeze, preventing the countdown from continuing.
- Outdated iOS Version: The current iOS firmware version installed on your device is a major factor behind this issue. Older software versions may have bugs or vulnerabilities that interfere with the correct functioning of the timer.
- SIM Card-Related Issues: It can sometimes affect your iOS device's normal functioning and security features. If your SIM card is incorrectly inserted or there is a problem with your network connection, it may interfere with the timer's ability to count down.
Part 2.Best Techniques To Fix iPhone Unavailable Timer Not Going Down
Resolving this inconvenient problem might seem like a difficult task, but it can be done through many methods. These solutions depend on your circumstances and range from simple device rebooting to utilizing advanced software. Discussed below are the top 4 fixes recommended by experts to resolve the iPhone unavailable is not counting down:
Method 1. Force Rest Your iPhone [All Models]
As temporary bugs on your mobile can be responsible for the timer issue, a simple solution is to force reboot your device. Doing this should expel all system glitches from your phone to let the lockout period go down as intended.
The procedure to force restart your iOS smart device differs depending on the phone model. You can attempt one of these guides to employ this solution for fixing timer issues:
- iPhone 8 and Later: A quick double tap on the “Volume Up” button followed by a similar tap on the “Volume Down” button needs to be done. Afterward, move to long press the “Side” button and maintain your grip until you see the Apple icon becoming visible.
- iPhone 7 Series: Enforce the force reboot by maintaining a simultaneous hold on the “Volume Down” and “Sleep/Wake” buttons until the Apple logo is on the screen.
- iPhone 6 and Before: Execute a forced restart with the help of a light yet continuous pressing of the "Home" and "Sleep/Wake" keys until the Apple icon shows itself.
Method 2. Try Inserting the SIM Card Again
Sometimes, the timer stuck on the iPhone can be linked to SIM card problems, especially if your device struggles with network connectivity. In such situations, re-inserting the SIM can help you by re-establishing a stable connection. While it can potentially resolve the timer malfunction, this method won't work for eSIM users.
To try this fix, turn your iOS device off and gently remove the SIM card tray using an ejector tool or a paperclip. Now, remove the card from the tray and inspect it for dust, dirt, or damage. After ensuring the SIM card is clean, place it back into the tray and slide it carefully back into your mobile.
Method 3. Directly Erase the iPhone From the Lock Screen [Apple ID Required]
It is a method available to users with devices running on iOS 15.2 and later to regain access. You must have your Apple account credentials, and your mobile should be connected to the internet. However, attempting this fix will erase all your data, restoring the device to factory settings. You can utilize the following guide for how to reset my iPhone when it says unavailable:
Step 1. Once you have made enough wrong attempts to unlock the screen lock, you will see “Forgot Passcode?” near the bottom of the “iPhone Unavailable” screen. Now, tap this option to choose “iPhone Reset” and follow it by selecting “Start iPhone Reset.”
Step 2. At this point, you'll be prompted to enter your Apple ID password to continue. Next, it will log out of your Apple account and let you erase the device via the "Erase iPhone" option.
Method 4. Fix the iPhone Unavailable Timer Not Working Without Apple ID or Passcode
You do not always meet the requirements set up by the official solutions to this timer countdown problem. The most prominent case is when you have forgotten your Apple ID credentials and the device passcode. Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is a powerful tool designed to help users resolve various iOS-related problems, including unavailable timer won't go away iPhone without these requirements.
Its Screen Unlock feature offers an efficient way to regain access to your device, even if the usual methods aren't working. This tool is specifically tailored for situations where you get barred from your mobile due to a forgotten passcode or the phone becoming unavailable after failed attempts. After restoring the device to its original condition, you can bypass the iCloud activation lock if stuck.
What Makes Wondershare Dr.Fone a Top-tier Software
- It can remove your Apple ID without requiring the original password to let you regain access to your second-hand device.
- You can eliminate the forgotten encryption password for your iTunes backups to facilitate future phone data backups.
- This software is handy in bypassing SIM locks or unlocking your device from its carrier to make it compatible with any network.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)
4. Fix the iPhone Unavailable Timer Not Working Without Apple ID or Passcode.
- Simple, click-through, process.
- Unlock screen passwords from all iPhones and iPads.
- No tech knowledge is required, everybody can handle it.
- Supports the latest iOS version fully!
In-Depth Guide on Bypassing iPhone Unavailable Screen Without Apple ID or Passcode
To help you bypass this frustrating problem plaguing your iOS smartphone without any pre-requirements, utilize the easy-to-follow steps described below:
Step 1. Access Screen Unlock in Wondershare Dr.Fone
After launching the program, select the “Screen Unlock” tab from the “Toolbox” and specify “iOS” as your phone type. Next, link your locked phone to your computer and click the “Unlock iOS Screen” button to “Start” the “iPhone unavailable” bypassing procedure.
Step 2. Choose Appropriate iOS System Version
Now, proceed further by putting your iOS device into Recovery Mode or DFU Mode using the instructions provided. Afterward, let the program detect your “Device Mode” and choose a suitable iOS firmware for installation utilizing the “System Version” option.
Step 3. Entered the Asked Code to Unlock iDevice
You can start downloading firmware by clicking “Start” and then wait for it to complete. Once downloaded and verified by the program, utilize “Unlock Now” to proceed. A pop-up prompt will warn you of data loss, and you can agree to it by entering the provided code. Finally, tap “Unlock” to start the phone unlocking procedure to regain access.
Conclusion
In summary, answering why is my iPhone unavailable and time not changing can be done through various solutions. From force restarting your device to re-inserting the SIM card and even using advanced tools, you can regain access to your iOS device. Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) stands out as a top choice for a reliable fix due to its Screen Unlock feature.
With it, you can bypass the timer and regain control of your device to end the struggle with the timer issue. Dr. Fone also offers a comprehensive solution to get your iOS phone back in working order via various tools.
Daisy Raines
staff Editor