Error 4013 is a common restore error that can occur when trying to restore or update an iPhone 6. This error indicates that the device cannot connect to the update server and download the necessary software to complete the restore process.
What causes error 4013 on iPhone 6?
There are a few potential causes of error 4013 on iPhone 6 devices:
- Outdated or corrupted iOS software – An outdated or corrupted OS version can prevent the device from properly communicating with Apple’s servers to download the right software.
- Server connectivity issues – Temporary problems connecting to Apple’s servers can lead to 4013 errors during a restore attempt.
- Hardware defects – Faulty hardware like the WiFi/Bluetooth chipset or logic board can sometimes cause 4013 errors.
- Incorrect model information – If the device reports incorrect model information to Apple’s servers, it may fail to retrieve the proper restore firmware.
How to fix error 4013 on iPhone 6
If you encounter error 4013 on an iPhone 6, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to try and resolve it:
- Check network connection – Make sure you have a stable, strong WiFi or cellular data connection when attempting the restore.
- Update iTunes – Update to the latest version of iTunes on your computer.
- Hard reset – Perform a hard reset by holding the Power and Home buttons for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
- Try DFU mode – Put the iPhone in DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode and attempt the restore again.
- Use a different USB cable – Sometimes the USB cable can cause issues, try another cable if possible.
- Try on another computer – Attempt the restore on another computer to rule out any software issues.
- Factory reset – Erase the device entirely using a full factory reset, then try restoring again.
- Contact Apple support – If still unresolved, contact Apple support for further troubleshooting assistance.
Detailed guides on resolving error 4013
For step-by-step instructions on troubleshooting error 4013 and restoring your iPhone 6, follow one of these detailed guides:
Hard reset the iPhone
Doing a hard reset can clear out any temporary glitches and allow the device to reconnect properly on restore:
- Hold down the Power/Side button until you see the “Slide to Power Off” screen.
- Don’t slide to power off, instead hold the Home button while still holding the Side button.
- Keep holding both buttons for at least 10 seconds until you see the Apple logo.
- Let go of the buttons once the Apple logo appears and allow the device to restart.
- Try restoring again after the reset completes.
Put the iPhone in DFU mode
DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode forces the device into a recovery state for restoring:
- Connect the iPhone to your computer via USB cable.
- Launch iTunes and make sure you have the latest version installed.
- Hold down the Power and Home buttons together for 10 seconds.
- Keep holding the Home button but release the Power button.
- Keep holding the Home button until you see the “Recovery Mode” screen.
- In iTunes click “Restore” to restore the device in recovery mode.
Erase All Content and Settings
Wiping the device using a full factory reset can help resolve software issues before restoring:
- Go to Settings > General > Reset.
- Tap “Erase All Content and Settings.”
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Tap “Erase” to confirm and wait for the reset to complete.
- The device will reboot into setup mode. Follow the setup screens.
- Once setup is complete, try restoring again in iTunes.
Will restoring fix error 4013?
In many cases, successfully restoring the device using one of the above methods will resolve the 4013 error. However, if the issue persists, it’s likely due to a hardware defect or damage that requires service to fix.
Is error 4013 fatal?
Error 4013 does not necessarily mean the iPhone is permanently broken and requires replacement. It’s often fixable through software troubleshooting. However, a 4013 error can occasionally indicate unrecoverable hardware damage, like:
- Faulty logic board
- Baseband processor failure
- WiFi/Bluetooth chipset damage
- NAND storage corruption
If you exhaust all restore troubleshooting steps and 4013 persists, hardware service may be required. Contact Apple Support for a diagnosis. A genius bar appointment at the Apple Store is recommended.
Should I visit Genius Bar for 4013 error?
Visiting an Apple Genius Bar is advisable if you cannot resolve the 4013 error through standard troubleshooting:
- Genius techs can run advanced diagnostics to pinpoint hardware issues.
- They may be able to restore the device using internal tools inaccessible to the public.
- If hardware damage caused the error, they can arrange a device replacement if covered under warranty.
- Out-of-warranty replacements are possible for a fee if unrepairable.
Make a Genius Bar appointment at your local Apple Store. Be sure to bring your iPhone, cables, and any other accessories that may help. Be prepared to erase/restore the device during your appointment if necessary.
Should I get a replacement iPhone 6?
If the 4013 error turns out to be unfixable hardware damage, a replacement iPhone 6 may be necessary. Apple provides a few replacement options:
- Warranty replacement – If the device is still under Apple’s 1-year limited warranty, you can get a replacement iPhone 6 for free.
- Paid repair – Out-of-warranty devices can be replaced at Apple for an out-of-warranty replacement fee.
- AppleCare+ – iPhone 6 models enrolled in AppleCare+ can get 2 replacement iPhones over a 2-year period for just a deductible fee.
- Third party – Alternately, third party repair shops can sometimes replace specific components like the logic board to resolve 4013 errors.
Be sure to back up important data before turning over your iPhone for replacement. And don’t forget to remove any screen lock passcodes.
Best practices to avoid 4013 errors
While 4013 errors aren’t always preventable, here are some tips to minimize the chances of seeing one on your iPhone 6:
- Keep iOS updated – Install iOS updates promptly to maintain compatibility with restore servers.
- Use trusted accessories – Avoid damage by sticking to MFi-certified Lightning cables and chargers.
- Avoid liquid damage – Protect devices from spills and submersion that can short circuit components.
- Don’t jailbreak – Jailbreaking circumvents iOS safeguards and is an unstable modification.
- Maintain backups – Regularly back up your iPhone to iCloud and iTunes to safeguard data.
- Monitor battery health – Degraded batteries can cause unexpected restarts during crucial updates.
While not foolproof, following best practices like these can help minimize bricked devices needing 4013 error recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my iPhone 6 get stuck in recovery mode?
An iPhone 6 becoming stuck in recovery mode during restore is a common symptom of error 4013. This occurs because the device cannot communicate properly with Apple’s servers to download the firmware file needed to exit recovery mode. The underlying cause is usually outdated iOS, server issues, or hardware defects.
Can I restore without computer?
Unfortunately error 4013 requires a computer connection to restore the iPhone 6. The device itself cannot download the necessary firmware over-the-air by itself to complete the process. You must use either iTunes on a Mac/PC or Finder on a newer Mac.
Why is my iPhone disabled connect to iTunes?
The “iPhone is disabled connect to iTunes” screen also typically indicates a 4013 error. This occurs when an iPhone 6 fails verification with Apple’s servers after too many incorrect passcode attempts. You’ll need to connect to a computer and restore via iTunes to regain use of the disabled iPhone.
Should I factory reset before restoring?
Doing a factory reset via Erase All Content and Settings can help resolve certain software-related causes of 4013 errors. It’s a good troubleshooting step before restoring to eliminate any lingering software corruption. Just be sure to backup data first.
How long does 4013 error last?
The 4013 error itself is temporary and will go away once the underlying problem is addressed, whether through troubleshooting, restoring, or hardware replacement. Persistent 4013 errors indicate a more serious issue requiring service to fully correct.
Conclusion
In summary, error 4013 on the iPhone 6 is a restore error typically fixed by software troubleshooting like DFU mode restores, updating iOS and iTunes, hard resets, or erasing the device. Hardware defects can also cause the error, requiring Apple service or replacement. Resolving 4013 errors can usually be done without losing data, but persistent issues may need professional repair or replacement if under warranty. Following best practices for iOS and hardware care can help minimize instances of 4013 bricking.
