Fix iPad Stuck in Recovey Mode with 4 Effective Ways [2025 New]

Part 1: Why is iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode?

Your iPad may get stuck in recovery mode for several reasons—most of them related to system-level glitches or failed update processes. Here are the most common causes:

1. Failed iOS Update or Downgrade

If an iOS update was interrupted (due to low battery, poor network, or disconnection), your iPad may automatically enter recovery mode to prevent further issues.

2. Boot Loop or System Crash

When your iPad keeps restarting (boot loop) or gets stuck on the Apple logo, entering recovery mode is often the system's way of signaling that it needs help restoring functionality.

3. Jailbreak Gone Wrong

If you've tried jailbreaking your iPad and something went wrong, it can trigger recovery mode as a protective fallback.

4. Hardware Issues

In some cases, recovery mode may be caused by a faulty USB cable, damaged port, or deeper hardware problems—especially if you see error codes like (9), (4013), or (4014) during restore.

5. iTunes or Finder Errors

Sometimes the issue isn’t with the iPad itself, but with iTunes or Finder on your computer. An outdated version, poor connection, or corrupted firmware download can keep your iPad stuck in recovery mode.

From the Author:

Now that you know why your iPad is stuck in recovery mode, let’s look at the most effective ways to fix it—whether you want to restore it safely or exit recovery mode without losing data.

Part 2: How to Fix iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode with Top 4 Methods

Method 1: Force Restart iPad (No Computer Needed)

One of the quickest ways to fix an iPad stuck in recovery mode is by performing a force restart. Whether you’re using an iPad Mini 6, iPad Pro, or another model, this method can help reboot the device and get it back to normal—no computer required.

Here’s how to force restart your iPad:

iPad with a Home Button

• Press and hold the Power button and Home button at the same time. Keep holding until you see the Apple logo on the screen.

iPad without a Home Button

• Quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then do the same with the Volume Down button.
• Finally, press and hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears.

This simple restart process can often get your iPad out of recovery mode without needing to connect to a computer.

For more details, visit Apple’s official guide: www.support.apple.com/ipad/restore

Method 2: One-Click to Fix iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode without iTunes

If your iPad running iOS 17 is stuck on the restore screen or stuck in recovery mode and won’t restore during an update, it’s likely caused by system glitches. Fortunately, you can fix these issues easily with Tenorshare ReiBoot, a professional iOS system repair tool.

ReiBoot lets you exit recovery mode and fix iOS system problems—including when your iPad won’t restore—without losing any data. With just one click, you can bring your iPad back to normal.

Here’s how to fix your iPad using ReiBoot:

• Download Tenorshare ReiBoot on your PC and run it. Then connect software you just installed on PC with your iPad.

  

• Then click on the “Exit” option and wait for the process to complete.

  

• Generally, your device will successfully exit the recovery mode.

  

Method 3: Restore iPad via iTunes (May Cause Data Loss)

Another way to get your iPad out of recovery mode is by restoring it using iTunes. This method can be effective, but it comes with a risk—it will erase all your data if no backup is available.

Use this option only if:

• You have a recent backup, or
• You’re okay with starting fresh.

Steps to restore iPad via iTunes:

• Download and install the latest version of iTunes on your computer.
• Connect your iPad (stuck in recovery mode) to the computer using a USB cable.

For more information, also read: iPad stuck in recovery mode and itunes won't recognize
• Launch iTunes. If prompted, a pop-up will appear saying your iPad is in recovery mode.


• If no pop-up appears, click the iPad icon in iTunes > go to Summary > click Restore iPad.

  
• Confirm the action. iTunes will restore your device and restart it automatically.

From the Author:

This method will erase all data on your iPad. Be sure to back up in advance if possible.

Method 4: Enter DFU Mode If iPad Stuck in Recovery Mode and Won’t Restore

Entering DFU mode is also considered a way of getting rid of issues where your iTunes stuck on preparing iPad for restore. DFU is a Device Firmware Update mode and it is entirely different from the iPad’s Recovery mode. However, you can use it as a short-term alternative for fixing such problems but there is a probability that it may result in data loss.

The following points will guide you on how you can enter DFU mode when your iPad stuck in restore mode.

iPad with Face ID:

• Connect your device to computer via a USB cable. Press the Volume up button, then quickly press the Volume Down button. Next, press and hold the Power button even if the screen turns black.
• Don’t release the Power button, then continue holding the Power button and the Volume Down button simultaneously for about 5s.

• Release the Power Button but continue Holding the Volume Down button for about 10s. If your device has entered DFU mode successfully, the screen will be completely black.

  

iPad with Home Button:

• Press ad hold the Power button and the Home button simultaneously for about 5s.
• Release the Power button but continue holding the home button for about 10s, if your device has entered DFU mode successfully, the screen will be completely black.

ReiBoot - Best iPad DFU Mode Tool

Also you can use ReiBoot to put your device into DFU mode, or directly use ReiBoot to exit iPad recovery mode.

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FAQs about iPad Recovery Mode

1. How long can an iPad stay in recovery mode?

An iPad can stay in recovery mode indefinitely if it has power, but it won't exit on its own. Leaving it too long may drain the battery or indicate system issues. If it's stuck for over an hour, consider troubleshooting or using a repair tool like ReiBoot.

2. How long does an iPad restore take?

The restoration process for an iPad stuck on restore screen depends on few factors, including the condition of the device, the method used for recovery, and the size of the backup being restored. It might range from a few minutes to an hour. If the process takes significantly longer, there may be some issues and you may need to start the process again or seek professional help.

3. Why is my iPad taking forever to restore?

Your iPad may be slow to restore due to a weak internet connection, large backup size, outdated software, or USB issues. Try restarting, updating software, or switching cables.

Conclusion

Here is all you need to known when your iPad stuck in recovery mode and won't restore. This article gives you brief insight on how you can fix such problems effortlessly using one of the best recovery mode software currently available in the market, Tenorshare ReiBoot.

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