How to fix Cydia error: sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (100)
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bradocky • December 28, 2012 at 5:29pm
I am experiencing a problem with Cydia where I cannot install or remove any packages. When I try, I receive the error message: 'sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (100)'. I am using an iPhone 4 on iOS 5.0.1 and cannot restore the device because I need to preserve my SAM activation ticket for unlocking. Is there a way to fix this dpkg error without a full restore?
Answers
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iClarified • January 12, 2026 at 4:34am
This error usually indicates that the dpkg database is corrupted or missing a critical file. Since you cannot restore, you can try to manually fix the status file using a file manager like iFile or a computer-based tool like iFunBox via SSH. Navigate to the directory /var/lib/dpkg/ on your device. First, check if there is a folder named 'updates' inside that directory. If it is missing, create a new folder and name it 'updates'. If the folder already exists, make sure it is empty. If that does not work, you may need to restore the status file from a backup. In the same /var/lib/dpkg/ folder, look for a file named 'status-old'. Rename your current 'status' file to 'status-bak' and then rename 'status-old' to 'status'. Restart Cydia and try to install or remove a package again.