Guide 1k · Restart & Recovery
iPhone How-To Guide • RecoveryiPhone 7 won't restore in recovery mode? DFU mode goes one level deeper. Read every step first, since timing matters.
Works on: iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
Warning: A DFU Restore Erases Everything
This deletes everything on the phone. Use it only as a last resort, after recovery mode fail. Photos, messages and apps are gone unless you have a backup (see How To Back Up Your iPhone). If you want to keep your data, call or text (720) 413-8150 first.
How To Enter DFU Mode
The screen stays black in DFU mode. That is normal. If you see the Apple logo or the computer-and-cable picture, you held a button too long. Start over.
- Plug the phone into a Mac (Finder) or a PC (Apple Devices app).
- Press and hold the side button and volume down together for 8 seconds.
- Let go of the side button. Keep holding volume down for about 5 more seconds, until the computer sees the phone.
- The computer should say it found an iPhone in recovery mode, while the phone screen stays black. This is the last step: click Restore. This deletes everything on the phone.
Did It Work?
DFU restore failed too? It may be hardware. I can check it and refer board-level work to a microsoldering specialist.
Source: If you can't update or restore your iPhone (Apple Support, checked Oct 18, 2026).
Changed your mind? A force restart takes the phone out of DFU mode without erasing it.
Apple doesn't publish DFU steps. These timings are the ones repair techs use.
Next step: 12a Get Ready For A Repair
If this didn't fix it: iPhone Diagnostics
Related: 1h Recovery Mode (iPhone 7) · 10a Back Up Your iPhone
Still stuck? Call or text (720) 413-8150 or book an appointment. It's a home-based shop, so please call or text before you head over.
Franchitti's Fix LLC is an independent repair shop, not affiliated with Apple.