Reinstalling macOS getting message “Could not create a preboot volume for APFS install”

That is a failed formatting. If you are giving the computer to your son, then you need to follow certain protocols.

• What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your Mac
• Factory reset of your Mac - Apple Support

Are you working with a HDD or an SSD? If the former, then you should not use APFS. How are reinstalling OS X? You stated it was an "old" computer. How old is it? Could you provide the exact model? It's usually in the form of a time of year followed by the year, e.g., Late-2011 or Mid-2010. To find the complete model information select About This Mac from the Apple menu. You will find it listed in the computer information.

What version of OS X are you trying to install? Do you have original Software Restore disks that came with the computer? If your computer came with Lion or later installed, then you need to use Internet Recovery to install the original version of OS X that came from the factory.

I am having the same issue..after clearing the drive and during the installation process with about 3 min left I get the statement...."

“Could not create a preboot volume for APFS install”

Can anyone help

I have the same problem and have followed the above protocols to the letter TWICE -- same error message!

Sorry, but that didn't help solve the problem. I've erased that disk several times and tried to reinstall - same error message.

Generally means an older Mac that wants the drive Formatted MacOS Extended instead of APFS.