How To Use DFU Mode On iPhone 8, SE (2nd And 3rd Gen) And Face ID Models

Guide 1j · Restart & Recovery

Recovery mode didn't work? DFU mode is the next step. It takes careful timing, so read all the steps before you start.

Works on: iPhone 8, 8 Plus, SE (2nd and 3rd generation), and every Face ID iPhone from iPhone X through iPhone 18 Pro Max.

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.

1. Plug the phone into a Mac (Finder) or a PC (Apple Devices app).
2. Press volume up and let go right away.
3. Press volume down and let go right away.
4. Press and hold the side button until the screen goes black, about 10 seconds.
5. Keep holding the side button and also hold volume down for 5 seconds.
6. Let go of the side button but keep holding volume down for about 10 more seconds.
7. 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.

Franchitti's Fix LLC is an independent repair shop, not affiliated with Apple.