How to Fix iPhone Error 4013

If you see the error message An unknown error occurred (4013), it means there was a problem updating or restoring your Apple device. Depending on the problem, this could be a relatively easy fix, but there's always the chance it's pointing to a hardware issue. Read on to learn what causes the iPhone error 4013 and seven ways you can fix it.

Causes of iPhone Error 4013

This error, commonly referred to as iPhone Error 4013, means there is a problem restoring the iPhone from a backup or updating the operating system. It can affect the latest iPhone, older models, and the iPad and iPod touch.

You'll know you're facing this error when you get the following message in iTunes:

 The iPhone [device name] could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (4013).

This error is most often seen when the device disconnects from iTunes or when iTunes is unable to prompt the device to finish the update or restore process. In most cases, this is the result of a software bug but it could also be due to a hardware failure, specifically the proximity sensor.

You may also see errors 9, 4005, and 4014. All four are closely related, so the steps in this article can be used to fix any of these errors.

How to Fix iPhone Error 4013

Working around this error doesn't have to be a huge headache. To fix an iPhone error 4013, follow these steps, in this order:

1. Update iTunes to the latest version. A software issue is the most common cause of the 4013 error. You could be running into this error because iTunes has unresolved bugs that can only be addressed through an update.

2. Force restart the iPhone. A seemingly difficult problem with an iOS device is solved by restarting it. Sometimes the problem is a temporary software glitch that the restart will fix. In this case, you want a force restart.

3. Install the latest iOS update through iTunes. When you're asked whether you want to update or restore the device, select Update.

   This reinstalls the operating system but leaves your data untouched. If you select Restore, all your data is deleted.

4. Update your Mac or update Windows. Just like an older version of iTunes may have caused error 4013, there could be software updates you need to install on your computer. Install any available operating system updates and then try again.

5. Try a different USB cable. If the 4013 error is caused by a connection problem between your device and computer, swapping out the cable for one you know works could be the fix.

6. Restore using a different computer. This is the other scenario in which a hardware problem may cause the error. If the USB cable isn't to blame, it could be the USB port or a separate issue with the computer. Because this is a difficult problem to pin down, it's a good idea to restore or upgrade your device on a new computer.

7. Dry out your device. Moisture inside your phone or tablet could be the ultimate trigger for the error.

8. Disconnect or replace the proximity sensor. This requires you to open your device with special tools.

   Depending on the device you have and how you disconnect it, doing so could turn off your access to Face ID. You might also void your warranty if you open your device.

9. Make an Apple Genius Bar appointment for tech support. If everything you tried so far has failed to fix error 4013, contact Apple. At this point, you may have a more serious problem that can only be solved by the people with access to top training and repair options.