The 4013 error loop is a common issue that affects many iPhone users. It occurs when the iPhone gets stuck in a loop during startup and continuously displays the 4013 error message. This prevents the user from properly booting up their device and accessing the home screen. There are several potential causes for the 4013 error loop which this article will examine in detail. Additionally, solutions will be provided to help fix this frustrating problem and get your iPhone working properly again.
What Causes the 4013 Error Loop?
There are a few main culprits that can trigger the 4013 error loop on an iPhone:
- Corrupted or damaged software
- Issues with the baseband component
- Problems with the bootrom
- Hardware failure
Let’s take a closer look at each of these potential causes.
Corrupted or Damaged Software
One of the most common reasons an iPhone gets stuck in the 4013 loop is due to corrupted or damaged system software. This can occur after a failed iOS update, improper restore from backup, jailbreaking gone wrong, or even an app that ends up damaging key system files. When core software components become corrupt, it prevents the iPhone from booting up properly.
Issues with iOS system files are often the easiest 4013 errors to fix, as they can usually be repaired by restoring the iPhone software. We’ll cover the specific steps to restore and update your software later in this article.
Baseband Component Problems
The baseband component is responsible for managing the iPhone’s cellular radio and communications. If it becomes damaged or corrupted, it can also trigger the endless 4013 loop. Baseband issues tend to occur after failed carrier updates, improper unlocking of the iPhone, or even water damage to the baseband chip.
Fixing baseband-related 4013 errors is trickier than software issues. It often requires advanced repair techniques to replace or reprogram the baseband component. If the baseband is severely damaged, a full replacement of the logic board may be necessary.
Bootrom Issues
The bootrom is a small piece of read-only software embedded into the iPhone during manufacturing. It performs vital functions like loading the iOS operating system. If the bootrom becomes corrupted or damaged, the 4013 loop can occur as the iPhone will be unable to start the boot process correctly.
Bootrom issues are difficult to repair and will usually require replacement of the entire logic board. This is an expensive fix best left to professional repair shops with microsoldering expertise.
Hardware Failure
Finally, an outright hardware failure can also lead to the endless 4013 error message. For example, if the CPU, RAM, flash storage, or other critical components fail, the iPhone will not have the hardware needed to boot up properly.
Hardware failures require component-level microsoldering repairs. Damaged parts like the CPU or RAM chips need to be replaced. Again, best left to professional repair technicians if hardware damage is suspected.
How to Fix the 4013 Error Loop
Now that we’ve covered the potential causes, let’s go through the steps you can take to fix the 4013 error loop on your iPhone:
- Force restart the iPhone
- Check for and remove any problem accessories
- Update or restore iOS using iTunes
- Erase all content and settings
- Factory reset the iPhone
- DFU mode restore
- Apple Store repair
- Third party repair shop
Let’s look at each of these 4013 error fixes in more detail.
1. Force Restart the iPhone
As simple as it sounds, one of the first things to try when stuck in the 4013 loop is to force restart your iPhone. This essentially cuts power to the device and forces it to reboot from scratch. Here is how to force restart based on your iPhone model:
- iPhone 8 or later: Press and release the Volume Up button, press and release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
- iPhone 7: Press and hold both the side and volume down buttons for at least 10 seconds, until the Apple logo appears.
- iPhone 6s and earlier: Press and hold both the home and side buttons for at least 10 seconds, until the Apple logo appears.
A force restart can often clear simple software glitches causing the 4013 error. Continue to the next steps if the 4013 loop returns after force restarting.
2. Check for Problem Accessories
It’s also a good idea to check if any recently connected accessories could be responsible for the 4013 error. For example, plugging in a damaged Lightning cable, corrupt SD card, or faulty USB accessory can sometimes interfere with the boot process. Disconnect any accessories and try to boot the iPhone again normally.
3. Update or Restore iOS Using iTunes
Updating or restoring your iPhone software using iTunes on a computer is one of the best ways to fix a persistent 4013 error. iTunes will often detect and repair any corruption with the iOS system files. Follow these steps:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a Lightning cable.
- Open iTunes on your computer.
- Put your iPhone into Recovery Mode – hold the Side button and Volume Up buttons until you see the Recovery screen.
- In iTunes, a prompt should appear asking to Restore or Update your iPhone. Click Restore to reinstall iOS.
- If restore succeeds, your iPhone should reboot normally without the 4013 error.
This process will wipe the iPhone and install a fresh copy of iOS to hopefully resolve any software related 4013 problems.
4. Erase All Content and Settings
If updating or restoring in iTunes doesn’t work, the next step is to erase the iPhone entirely using the Settings app. Here is how:
- From the home screen, open Settings > General > Reset
- Select “Erase All Content and Settings” – this will factory reset your iPhone.
- Configure the iPhone from scratch and see if the 4013 loop persists.
Erasing the iPhone from Settings rather than iTunes does a more thorough clean of the device, including user data and settings. Worth trying if you still see the 4013 error after iTunes restore.
5. Factory Reset the iPhone
A factory reset via iTunes is yet another option if you run into 4013. This completely reverts the iPhone to its original out-of-the-box state. It’s more thorough than a standard erase or restore.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer via USB and open iTunes.
- Select your iPhone, then click Summary > Restore iPhone.
- In the popup, instead of Restore, hold Shift on Windows or Option on Mac and click Restore iPhone.
- Select the IPSW file for your iPhone model when prompted.
The factory reset process will take some time as it reloads the stock IPSW firmware file. Once completed, set up the iPhone from scratch and test if the 4013 loop persists.
6. DFU Mode Restore
The Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode is an ultra low-level way of restoring iOS. It forces the iPhone into a recovery state separate from normal operating system functions. A DFU mode restore can fix 4013 in cases where standard iTunes restores do not.
Putting the iPhone into DFU mode and restoring takes some practice, so follow these steps carefully:
- Connect the iPhone to your computer while powered off.
- Hold the Side button for 3 seconds.
- Without releasing Side, also hold Volume Down for 10 seconds.
- Let go of Side button while still holding Volume Down.
- Keep holding Volume Down until you see the Recovery screen connect to iTunes.
- In iTunes, click Restore iPhone to initiate DFU restore process.
It can take a few tries to successfully enter DFU mode. If you run into the 4013 after DFU restore, the problem is likely hardware related.
7. Apple Store Repair
If all else fails and your iPhone persists with the 4013 error loop, it’s time to take it into an Apple store for inspection and repair. Make an appointment at the Genius Bar and explain the 4013 issue you are encountering.
Apple technicians have access to advanced diagnostic tools and iOS logs that can pinpoint hardware problems not evident through standard troubleshooting. They can either replace specific components like the logic board or baseband, or offer a full replacement iPhone.
One downside is that any repairs from Apple can get quite pricey without warranty coverage. But Genius Bar technicians are your best shot at properly fixing any tricky hardware-originated 4013 problems.
8. Third Party Repair Shop
Another option is to take your looping iPhone to a reputable third party repair shop rather than the Apple store. Quality independent shops often charge much less than Apple for microsoldering repairs and replacements.
Just be sure to do your research to pick a shop with positive reviews, experienced technicians, and quality components. Getting a shoddy baseband component replacement from a chop shop will just lead to endless headaches.
A quality microsoldering specialist should be able to replace just the damaged iPhone hardware causing the 4013 error, rather than needing full device replacement. This results in much lower repair costs.
Preventing the 4013 Error Loop
While not always avoidable, there are some general steps you can take to help prevent ending up with the dreaded 4013 error loop:
- Always keep your iPhone software up-to-date and do not ignore iOS updates.
- Use trusted cables and chargers to avoid electrical damage.
- Don’t attempt complex repairs or jailbreaking unless you know what you are doing.
- Avoid exposing your iPhone to excessive heat or liquids which can damage hardware.
- Back up important data regularly as a precaution.
Carefully following best practices for handling and charging your iPhone will minimize the chances of both software and hardware errors leading to the 4013 problem.
4013 Error Loop Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions related to the 4013 error loop:
Why does my iPhone keep showing 4013?
The 4013 error loop most often occurs due to corrupted system software, baseband firmware problems, bootrom damage, or hardware defects. The iPhone gets stuck endlessly trying and failing the boot process.
Is 4013 a hardware or software problem?
It can be either. Software corruption is the most common cause of 4013 errors. But hardware issues like baseband failure, logic board damage, or component failure can also lead to the 4013 loop.
Can I fix 4013 without restoring?
In some rare cases, a normal restart or removing problematic accessories can stop the 4013 loop without restoring iOS. But most 4013 errors do require a restore, update, or erase to have a chance at fixing.
Why is my iPhone 4013 after new battery?
If the 4013 loop only occurs after installing a new battery, it likely means the battery replacement was faulty or improperly installed. Use a battery from a reputable source and have it professionally replaced to avoid any hardware damage.
Is 4013 a hardware or software problem?
It can be either. Software corruption is the most common cause of 4013 errors. But hardware issues like baseband failure, logic board damage, or component failure can also lead to the 4013 loop.
Should I replace my iPhone if I get 4013?
Trying the recommended software troubleshooting steps first is wise, as 4013 can often be resolved without a device replacement. If hardware damage is confirmed, replacement may be required. But don’t immediately replace an iPhone just for getting the 4013 error.
Conclusion
The 4013 error is certainly one of the more troublesome issues that iPhone users encounter. A device stuck in the perpetual 4013 loop becomes unusable and prevents access to the operating system and apps. But while frustrating, this issue can be resolved through various software restore procedures or hardware repairs if needed. By better understanding the root causes and applying the right troubleshooting techniques, most any 4013 error situation can be successfully fixed. Just be patient, follow the proper steps outlined here, and your iPhone should soon be back up and running normally again.