Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

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

trying to reinstall macOS on old Mac giving to my son. After clearing drive. Unable to reinstall OS. Keep getting “Could not create a preboot volume for APFS install” please help

Posted on Aug 23, 2020 10:09 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Aug 23, 2020 10:13 AM

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




6 replies

Sep 9, 2020 1:09 PM in response to Community User

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.


Sep 9, 2020 12:48 PM in response to Kappy

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

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

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.