By Sophie Green

Updated on 2025-08-08

100 % Helpful

[SOLVED] Fix iPad Won't Go Into Recovery Mode Easily

By Sophie Green

2025-08-08 / iPad

If your iPad (iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, or standard iPad) won’t go into recovery mode no matter what buttons you press, you’re not alone. Many users run into this issue when trying to fix system problems or prepare for a restore. This guide will walk you through why it happens—and how to fix it fast.

iPad not going into recovery mode screen example

Part 1. Why Won't My iPad Go into Recovery Mode

Part 3. How to Force iPad into Recovery Mode Manually? [May Not Work]

Part 4. Another Tips on Fixing iPad Unavailable Won't Go into Recovery Mode

Part 1. Why Won't My iPad Go into Recovery Mode

I have tried multiple ways and directions on how to get this iPad into either recovery or DFU mode, neither are working. - iPad won't go into recovery mode Reddit

There are several reasons why your iPad (whether it’s an iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, or standard iPad) may refuse to enter recovery mode, even after following the correct button steps. Common causes include:

Incorrect Button Timing: Pressing or holding the buttons too early or too long can break the recovery sequence.
Outdated iTunes or Finder: An outdated macOS or iTunes version may fail to recognize your iPad correctly.
Faulty USB Cable or Port: A damaged cable or unstable connection can prevent proper communication with your computer.
System or Firmware Glitches: iPadOS bugs or corrupted system files can block recovery mode access.
Hardware Issues: Physical damage, like water exposure or a drop, may affect your iPad’s ability to enter recovery mode.

Next, we’ll show you how to fix it step by step—even if your buttons aren’t responding.

Part 2. [Recommended] The Fastest & Easiest Way to Put iPad into Recovery Mode Free

If your iPad still won’t enter recovery mode using the button combo, don’t stress—there’s a much easier way. With iPhone Recovery Tool - Tenorshare ReiBoot, you can enter (and exit) recovery mode on any iPad model with just one click—no button pressing, no iTunes, and completely free.

Why Choose ReiBoot:

Works on all iPads, including iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, and more
No need to press any buttons or worry about timing
100% free to enter/exit recovery mode
Supports the latest iPadOS 26 and below
Compatible with both Windows and Mac

If you are not sure how to use it to fix your iPad will not go into recovery mode issue, the following shows how.

Download the latest version of the software and install it on your computer. Connect your iPad to your computer using a USB cable. Launch the software on your computer.

luanch reiboot to fix ipad can't enter recovery mode

Click on the one that says Enter Recovery Mode. It won't take more than a minute.
Your iPad should now display the traditional Connect to iTunes message that it shows when it is in recovery mode.

That is all you need to do when your iPad not going into recovery mode. You can also watch the video guide on how to fix iPad not going into recovery mode.

Part 3. How to Force iPad into Recovery Mode Manually?

While using the aforementioned software is a great way to put your iPad into recovery mode, some users out there may prefer the manual method. If you are one of them, the following model-wise instructions will help you enter recovery mode on your iPad.

iPad models without Home Button

If yours is one of the iPad models that has the Face ID feature, then the following instructions will help reboot your device into recovery mode.

Press the Volume Up button and let it go. Press the Volume Down button and let it go. Press and hold down the Power button and keep it held down until your iPad reboots and enters recovery mode.
When you see the recovery mode screen, let go of the Power button.

ipad will not go into recovery mode &ipad face id

iPad with Home Button

If your iPad has come equipped with a Home button, then you need to follow the following steps to enter recovery mode on your device.

Press and hold down both Home and Power buttons together until you see the recovery screen on your device. Let go of the buttons when recovery mode is successfully entered.

my ipad pro will not go into recovery mode with ipad home button

Reliable Alternative: Use ReiBoot to Enter Recovery Mode Free

If the manual method fails to put your iPad into recovery mode, I highly recommend using Tenorshare ReiBoot—an advanced yet user-friendly tool that simplifies the process with just one click, ensuring reliable results without technical hassle.

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Part 4. Another Tips on Fixing iPad Unavailable Won't Go into Recovery Mode

If your iPad says “iPad Unavailable” and still refuses to enter recovery mode, here are a few extra tricks you can try before going for advanced repairs:

1. Update iTunes to the Latest Version

An outdated iTunes or Finder may prevent your computer from recognizing your iPad properly, blocking recovery mode.

Open iTunes (or Finder on Mac).
On Windows, click Help > Check for Updates; on Mac, go to System Preferences > Software Update.

update itunes to fix ipad will not go into recovery mode

Install any available updates.
Restart your computer and try again.

2. Check USB Cable and Ports

A damaged or non-certified USB cable can cause connection issues. Use an official Apple cable and try plugging into different USB ports on your computer. If possible, test with another computer to rule out port problems.

3. Check for Hardware Damage

Physical damage, such as broken buttons or water exposure, can prevent entering recovery mode. Inspect your iPad for visible damage, and if buttons feel unresponsive, consider visiting an Apple Store or authorized repair center for professional help.

Conclusion

You are all set. The above guide should fix the iPad won't go into recovery mode issue on any of your iPad models so you can then do whatever you wanted to do in recovery mode. And if your iPad is frozen on the Apple Logo screen, iPad stuck in reboot loop but cannot connect to iTunes, etc. Tenorshare ReiBoot is highly recommend to fix all iPad glitch issues.

downloads :

Tenorshare ReiBoot - Fix iOS Issues

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