iPhone Error 14: Complete Troubleshooting Guide Singapore 2026

Your iPhone shows “Error 14” during an iOS update. iTunes can’t restore your device. The update stops at the Apple logo or enters recovery mode. This error prevents you from updating your iPhone completely.

After fixing over 600 Error 14 cases at BreakFixNow Singapore, we’ve identified the exact causes and solutions—both DIY fixes and professional repairs.

What Is iPhone Error 14?

Error 14 appears when your iPhone fails to update or restore. You’ll see: “The iPhone [device name] could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (14).”

Common symptoms:

• iPhone stuck on Apple logo during update
• Device enters recovery mode and won’t exit
• Restore process fails halfway

Why Error 14 Happens

1. Insufficient Storage Space (50% of cases)

• iOS updates require 5-8GB free space
• Photos, videos, apps filling storage

2. USB Connection Problems (25%)

• Damaged or non-certified cable
• Faulty USB port

3. Software Issues (15%)

• Outdated iTunes/Finder
• Low Power Mode enabled

4. Hardware Problems (10%)

• Degraded battery
• Logic board faults

Step-by-Step Fixes

Fix 1: Free Up Storage Space (Solves 50%)

iOS updates need 5-8GB free space.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → General → iPhone Storage
2. Check “Available” space—need 5-8GB minimum
3. Delete unused apps
4. Delete old photos/videos (backup first)
5. Clear Safari cache (Settings → Safari → Clear History)

Fix 2: Check USB Cable

1. Use original Apple or MFi-certified cable
2. Check for cable damage
3. Plug directly into computer USB port (not hub)
4. Try different USB ports
5. Clean iPhone charging port with compressed air

Fix 3: Disable Low Power Mode

1. Go to Settings → Battery
2. If toggle is green, tap to disable Low Power Mode
3. Try update again

Fix 4: Update iTunes/Finder

Mac: Apple menu → System Settings → Software Update

Windows: iTunes → Help → Check for Updates

Fix 5: Force Restart

iPhone 8 and newer:

1. Press and release Volume Up
2. Press and release Volume Down
3. Hold Side button until Apple logo appears

iPhone 7: Hold Volume Down + Side button (10 seconds)

iPhone 6s and earlier: Hold Home + Power button (10 seconds)

Fix 6: Use Recovery Mode

1. Connect iPhone to computer
2. Open iTunes/Finder
3. Force restart but keep holding when Apple logo appears
4. Hold until “Connect to iTunes” screen shows
5. Click “Update” (preserves data)
6. Wait 15-30 minutes

Professional Repair Singapore

If DIY fixes fail, hardware issues may be the cause.

BreakFixNow diagnostic:

1. Free 15-minute diagnostic
2. Identify exact component causing Error 14
3. Quote before repair
4. Same-day service

Common repairs:

• Battery replacement (degraded batteries)
• Charging port repair
• Logic board repair
• NAND flash memory repair

Pricing:

• Diagnostic: Free
• Battery replacement: S$50-80
• Charging port: S$60-100
• Logic board: S$120-300

Warranty: 3 months on all repairs

Frequently Asked Questions