macOS Error Code 2003: How to Fix the Keychain Access Prompt Loop

Medium 15-45 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
2003
Brand
macOS
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
15-45 minutes
macOS Error Code 2003 occurs when your Mac gets stuck in a repeating loop of Keychain Access password prompts, constantly asking you to enter your password even after you've already done so. This typically happens when your login keychain becomes out of sync with your macOS user account password — often after a password change, macOS update, or interrupted login sequence. While it can be frustrating, this is a software-level issue that you can usually resolve yourself without needing professional help.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 2003

  1. Update Your Keychain Password to Match Your Login Password

    If you no longer remember your old keychain password, you will not be able to update it this way — skip to Step 3 instead.

  2. Restart Your Mac and Test

    Save all open documents before restarting to avoid losing unsaved work.

  3. Reset the Login Keychain

    Resetting your keychain permanently deletes all stored passwords in that keychain. Back up any critical passwords before proceeding. Consider exporting keychain items first if possible via File > Export Items.

  4. Delete and Recreate the Keychain File Manually

    Do not delete the keychain folder permanently until you confirm the issue is resolved. Keep the backup on your Desktop temporarily.

  5. Check for macOS Software Updates

    Ensure your Mac is plugged into power before running a software update to prevent interruption during installation.

  6. Repair Disk Permissions Using Disk Utility

  7. Create a New macOS User Account to Isolate the Issue

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When to Call a Professional

Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider if: the keychain prompt loop persists after all steps above including creating a new user account; you are completely locked out of your Mac and cannot log in at all; your Mac is under AppleCare and you want guided remote support; or if the issue began immediately after a hardware repair or logic board replacement, which can invalidate Secure Enclave-stored credentials. You can reach Apple Support at support.apple.com or by calling 1-800-APL-CARE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does macOS keep asking for my Keychain password over and over?
This repeating prompt usually means your login keychain password no longer matches your macOS account password. This commonly happens after you change your Mac login password without also updating the keychain password, or after a macOS update resets certain credential states. The keychain is locked to your old password and keeps asking for it to unlock stored credentials.
Will resetting my Keychain delete my saved passwords?
Yes — resetting your default login keychain will delete all passwords, certificates, and secure notes stored within it. This includes Wi-Fi passwords, app passwords, and website credentials saved by Safari or other apps. You should export any important keychain items before resetting, or be prepared to re-enter passwords manually afterward.
Can a macOS update cause the Keychain prompt loop?
Yes. Incomplete or interrupted macOS updates can sometimes cause a mismatch between your account credentials and keychain data, triggering Error Code 2003. Installing the latest macOS update fully (with a full restart) often patches known keychain bugs and can resolve the loop.
Is macOS Error Code 2003 a virus or security threat?
No — Error Code 2003 is not caused by a virus and is not itself a security threat. It is a software-level credential sync issue between your macOS user account and your Keychain database. However, if you are also seeing unexpected new accounts, unfamiliar login items, or other suspicious behavior alongside this error, it is worth running a reputable Mac security scan.
What should I do if I forgot my old Keychain password after changing my Mac login?
If you no longer remember the old keychain password, you cannot update or unlock the existing keychain. Your only option is to reset it entirely using Keychain Access > Preferences > Reset My Default Keychain, or by manually deleting the keychain folder in ~/Library/Keychains/. A new empty keychain will be created automatically, and you will need to re-save your passwords going forward.

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